Bites and wounds
Cats are natural predators, and can get involved in quite serious fights. A cat's tooth 'injects' bacteria, which can form very nasty abscesses. The wound may also be so small that it's barely noticeable. Any suspected bite wound should be bathed with warm salt water (a teaspoonful of salt to a pint of previously boiled water) to keep it open and draining. Cat bites can be confused with air-gun pellet injuries, so always contact your veterinary practice if you have any concerns, or if there is any noticeable swelling.
'Cat Flu' (feline influenza)
The symptoms include coughing and sneezing, with runny eyes and nose. It is caused by viruses spread from other cats, which is made worse by secondary bacterial infections. The vet will be able to treat the bacterial infection through antibiotics, and the condition can be prevented through vaccination. Your cat may well lose its appetite, as it cannot smell its food due to the nasal secretions. Smelly foods, such as pilchards, may tempt its appetite.
Dental Care
Gingivitis, or gum disease, is one of the commonest complaints seen at PDSA PetAid hospitals. This can be prevented with good oral hygiene from an early age, but your cat's annual check-up at the vet's will help reduce the risk of tartar build-up. Although the best way to combat dental disease is through tooth brushing using special pet toothpaste and brushes or cleaning mitts, it is sometimes quite difficult if you start when the cat is older.
Make your pet comfortable when starting to brush, and approach it from the side rather than the front. You can begin with a flannel folded over a finger, or a special 'finger brush', but these are not as good as a proper feline toothbrush. Use a special pet toothpaste, which is more acceptable. Start with a few teeth, and gradually increase it so that you can do the whole mouth at one session. Brush just the gums on the outside surface at first, as these are the ones that most need the care and attention. An important component of cat dental care is attention to diet. A cat's original diet contained bones, cartilage and feathers! Dried toast crumbles, dried biscuits, or the new cat nibbles may help.
