By: Talin Seta Shahinian
National Pet Week is celebrated during the first full week of May. It was created by the AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association) and the Auxiliary to the AVMA in 1981 to celebrate, honor, and pamper our beloved pets who do so much for us and make our lives better in so many ways.
Each day of National Pet Week focuses on one of the following aspects of responsible pet ownership:
Choose well: Commit for life. If you’re planning on adopting a new cat, make sure they fit well into your life and with those with whom you share it. Recognize that pet ownership is a lifetime commitment, and be prepared to support and care for your cat through their entire lifespan. If you already have a cat, you can still get tips from your vet and educate yourself on the best ways to care for them so they can live a long, happy, and healthy life.
Socialize now: New doesn’t have to be scary. Help your cat be comfortable in new situations by exposing her to safe interactions with new people and other animals.
Nutrition and exercise matter: take the time to consult your vet about your cat’s current diet. Your vet can advise on whether your current feeding routine, food, and treats are optimal for your kitty. Make sure your cat is getting enough exercise through playtime with you and walks if your cat will accept a harness and leash.
Love your pet? See your vet! This week is the perfect time to schedule a wellness vet visit, or you can put your cat’s annual physical on the calendar to remind you to make the call for an upcoming appointment.
Travel with care: plan for travel. Ensure everything is in place for a smooth trip with your furry friend. Some forms of travel require certain restraints during travel, veterinary exams, or special travel certificates. Best to prepare in advance, rather than be scrambling at the last minute before leaving on a trip.
Emergencies happen: Be prepared. Make a plan for how you will care for your pet and get them to safety in an emergency. Also, make sure your cat is microchipped as part of your plan to reunite with your cat in case of separation during a crisis. This is also an excellent time to look into pet insurance or start a savings account for your cat’s medical care if you don’t already have either. Medical emergencies arise, and you can be caught off-guard by hefty bills if you don’t have a savings fund or insurance for your cat.
Plan for their care: Give them a lifetime of love. Consult your vet for tips for their lifelong care. Thanks to veterinary science, and responsible cat owners like you, cats are living longer than ever. Make sure you know the best ways to support them through every stage of their lives.
If you live in NW Wisconsin, Purple Cat Mobile Vet Clinic is here to help you keep your cat healthy and happy. We’re a high-quality, high-volume, low-cost spay/neuter clinic. We see cats exclusively. Scheduling information is available on our www.purplecatvet.com website. You can also check out our Facebook page for more helpful information on all things feline!