Cats are notoriously solitary creatures, and their independence makes them appear invincible. Unfortunately, cats aren’t bulletproof and are just as vulnerable as any other creature. They might need surgery someday, hopefully not in an emergency.
Interventions that are considered elective are those that are not medical necessities. Spaying and neutering may be considered elective. When the procedure needs to be done right away, that would be an emergency surgery. In this case, it’s because the cat’s life is in jeopardy or it’s too sick to wait another day or two. On the other hand, the non-elective procedure must be done for health reasons but can wait.
How to avoid cat emergency surgeries?
Fortunately, you can do many things to reduce the likelihood of your cat requiring emergency surgery for one of the many illnesses for which they are at risk. The following is a list of suggestions to reduce the likelihood that your cat will require immediate surgical intervention.
1. Preventative Surgeries
The incidence of breast cancer and uterine infection (pyometra) is significantly reduced when women are spayed before their first menstrual cycle. Male cats are less prone to wander off, spray urine all over the house, and pick fights after being neutered.
If skin lumps are left unchecked, they may grow to an unmanageable size for your vet to remove. Massive growths on the legs could lead to amputation. Early removal of a mass reduces the likelihood that emergency surgical intervention will be required.
A cat and dog wellness exam in Asheville, NC, can also save your pet from severe ailments. Do it regularly to monitor your pet’s overall wellness.
2. Keep Cat Indoors
A small but vocal minority of cat owners take offense when their veterinarians recommend indoor-only living for their feline family member. We live in a place not considered cat-friendly and dangerous for our feline friends. Injuries requiring surgery can be avoided if your cat never leaves the house. Accidents involving vehicles, broken bones, and animal attacks fall into this category.
3. Accident-Proof Home
It’s not easy to make your home cat-proof, but it’s essential. As any cat owner will tell you, felines are masters of climbing and running. However, you may reduce the likelihood of trouble by avoiding it in the first place.
To prevent cats from choking to death, put away small toys and securely store all threads, ribbons, and sewing supplies. Prevent cats from falling out of windows, on balconies, or from lofts by blocking them off. The unfortunate truth is that felines don’t always manage to land upright after a fall. For more information about emergency veterinary care for your pet, you can search online and contact a vet.
4. Proper Nutrition and Weight Control
Urinary obstruction and bladder stones are two potentially fatal conditions for male cats that can be avoided with good nutrition. Unfortunately, many well-liked diets haven’t been adequately studied and linked to the development of bladder stones and other unpleasant health issues. Consult your veterinarian about the optimum diet for your cat.
Cats who are too heavy can suffer from a host of health issues. Wear and strain, especially on the knees, can result from carrying extra weight over time. Furthermore, it has been linked to urinary obstruction, which may necessitate surgical intervention. You can also consider cat and dog vaccinations for your pet to avoid other health issues.
5. Fight Avoidance
Cats’ fragility is often underestimated. They can cause serious injury to a canine or feline housemate if they get into a fight. Bites, however minor they appear on the surface, can penetrate deeply and inflict significant inside damage. Feeding your pets at different times or in different rooms can help. It cannot be stressed enough that your cat should never be allowed outside.