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Outdoor cats are at
increased risk for certain diseases, parasites and other hazards. This
does not mean that cats cannot be well cared for and still live
outdoors, but outdoor cats do have a few special needs.
1. Identification
Any cat playing outdoors should have a stretch or breakaway collar
with an ID tag or rabies vaccination tag so that they can be clearly
identified if lost. Microchips offer permanent identification in case
your cat loses his/her collar. Both forms of identification are
recommended and will assure that your cat is not mistaken for a stray
by neighbors or animal control.
2. Vaccination
a. Rabies vaccination is required for all cats but is especially
important for outdoor cats which are frequently in contact with
wildlife that can carry this fatal disease.
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FVRCP (Feline Viral
Rhinotracheitis Calici Panleukopenia) is an essential vaccination for
all cats. Rhinotracheitis and Calici viruses are responsible for
80-90% of upper respiratory diseases in cats. They are very common
airborne viruses that spread easily. Panleukopenia is a resistant
virus that is frequently fatal in cats. It produces severe vomiting
and diarrhea.
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FeLV (Feline
Leukemia Virus) vaccination is needed not only for cats that go
outdoors, but also for any indoor cat that is exposed to cats that
play outside. It is spread by eating from the same dishes.
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3. Parasites
- Intestinal
parasites are common in outdoor cats. Even if you believe your cat
does not hunt, routine deworming at least at his annual exam is
recommended.
- External
parasites such as fleas, ticks and ear mites are more common in
outdoor cats. In addition to causing discomfort, fleas and ticks can
spread other diseases, some of them fatal, so prevention is
paramount. Frontline is currently the safest tick preventative
available for cats.
- Heartworms
are spread by mosquitoes and a single heartworm can be fatal for
your cat. Revolution or Heartgard should be given year-round with
special vigilance during the spring-fall months. Heartworm
preventative also prevent some intestinal and external parasites
depending on which product you choose.
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4. Other Hazards
Fights with other cats, attacks by dogs or wildlife, vehicular
accidents and exposure to toxins (lawn chemicals, antifreeze, rotting
garbage) can be limited by only allowing your cat out for supervised
playtime, providing a cat-safe fenced area (there are many companies
that specialize in cat-fences and runs), or teaching your cat to walk
on a harness. Most accidents and trauma occur at night, so even if
your kitty enjoys the great outdoors during the day, he would be safer
inside with you at night.
Routine veterinary care, up-to-date vaccination and preventive
measures can help your outdoor cat live a health, happy, and long
life.
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