VHS Vet Medicine Week 8: Cats

How does a cats metabolism compare to humans?

Cats have a much faster metabolism than humans

What are the normal physiological values for a cat?

Body Temp: 100-102.5 degrees F

Heart Rate: 160-210 bpm

Respiratory Rate: 20-30 bpm

Lifespan: 12-18 years

How do cats maintain temperature regulation?

Adapting to their environment by using the environment, increasing the amount of heat produced by their body, rely on insulation (layers of fur)

How do a cat’s senses compare to a humans?

Cats have all the same 5 basic senses as humans. Except cats can swivel their ears to locate direction of sound. They can see a mouse run across the room in the dark

What is special about a cat’s pads and nails?

Cat’s pads are very sensitive, contain many nerve receptors. Nails are sharp and retractable, they give cats confidence and grace

How often should owners bring their cat for a checkup?

Once a year

What are the signs of illness in cats?

Neglecting grooming or over grooming, hiding, improper use of litter box, hair loss, skin irritation, bad breath

What is the importance of grooming in cats?

Removes dust, dead skin, and loose hair, prevents matting, improves circulation, regulates body temp, keeps cats clean

What are common household hazards for cats?

Chemicals, cleaning products, medications, soaps, lotions, rubber bands, tea tree oil

What is polydactyly?

Conditions that causes cats to have extra toes on their paws, it’s a genetic abnormality, it’s harmless to the cat’s health

What does normal cat behavior look like?

Grooming themselves, scratching, kneading, hunting, playing, marking their territory

What is the normal social behavior of cats?

Biting, chasing, play fighting

What are normal behaviors after a cat eliminates?

Urination, defecation, and marking their territory

What is the impact of scent on a cat’s behavior?

Reduces stress and anxiety

What are the steps to diagnosing a cat with a behavior issue

If your cat exhibits symptoms such as defecating outside the litterbox, showing signs of aggression, being destructive, or acting fearful your cat may have a behavior disorder. Take the cat to the vet so that you and the vet can come up with an effective treatment plan.