Q: How often do I need to vaccinate my cat?

Kittens need two sets of vaccinations , the first at nine weeks of age, the second at twelve. As immunity declines with time, we advise annual booster vaccinations to keep your cat up to date with protection. It also gives us the perfect opportunity to check your cat for any other health problems. We still advise boosters even if your cat is entirely indoors, as certain viruses can be tracked inside the home from shoes or clothing. Many catteries will also require proof of vaccination.

Q: Do I need to microchip my cat?

We recommend that all cats get microchipped . Even if your cat doesn't go outside, there is always the chance your cat may escape. Indoor or outdoor, a microchip ensures your cat is always linked to you. Found cats brought to vet practices or rescues will always be scanned for a microchip and the associated details will be contacted. For this reason, we recommend keeping microchip details up to date. This can be done by phoning the database your cat's microchip is registered with. For microchips implanted at The Cat Clinic, this database is PetTrac .

Question 1

How do I register with The Cat Clinic?

Accepted Answer

In order to register with us, please apply via our website or in the practice. Alternatively, if you need a standard appointment as a new client you may register through our online booking system.

Question 2

When do I need to bring my cat to the vet?

Accepted Answer

Even if all is well, we still recommend yearly health checks and booster vaccinations. This gives us a chance to provide preventative healthcare as well as catch any potential issues early. If you feel your cat is unwell but are unsure if they need to be seen, please call us on 0131 466 7110 for advice from our team.

Question 3

How do I get my cat into their carrier?

Accepted Answer

Often getting your cat into a carrier feels like a huge challenge! This useful video shows a number of different techniques to help with this. It's worth remembering that any time and effort put into getting your cat used to its carrier on a day-to-day basis will pay dividends - if you've got the space, tie open the door and allow your cat to use it as a bed.

Question 4

Do I need pet insurance?

Accepted Answer

Insurance may feel like a waste of money when your cat seems in perfect health, but each year 1 in 3 cats falls ill or gets injured. Pet insurance creates a financial safety blanket when your needs unexpected treatment. Getting insurance before your cat is seen by a vet is recommended as most pre-existing health conditions are not covered by insurance. Our clinic does not endorse any particular pet insurance company but encourages every owner to do their own research to find the insurance cover that is right for them.

Question 5

How often do I need to vaccinate my cat?

Accepted Answer

Kittens need two sets of vaccinations, the first at nine weeks of age, the second at twelve. As immunity declines with time, we advise annual booster vaccinations to keep your cat up to date with protection. It also gives us the perfect opportunity to check your cat for any other health problems. We still advise boosters even if your cat is entirely indoors, as certain viruses can be tracked inside the home from shoes or clothing. Many catteries will also require proof of vaccination.

Question 6

How often do I need to apply flea and worming treatment?

Accepted Answer

The frequency of flea and worm treatment can vary depending on your cat's lifestyle and the type of treatment applied. Please contact us in order to discuss the right treatment plan for your cat based on their needs. For administering flea and worming treatment at home, please see this step-by-step guide.

Question 7

How do I give my cat medication?

Accepted Answer

There are a variety of methods one that can be used to give their cat medication. This will depend on the type of medication (tablet, liquid, capsule or spot on) and the preferences of the cat (as well as the owner!). See this helpful guide for giving your cat medication.

Question 8

Do I need to neuter my cat?

Accepted Answer

We advise all cats get neutered, even if they don't have access to other cats. This is because neutering not only prevents unwanted pregnancies, it also provides health and behavioural benefits. Entire male cats are more likely to wander, fight with other cats, and be exposed to potentially fatal infectious diseases. Entire female cats also can be exposed to these diseases. Neutering will also reduce the occurrence of spraying (where a cat squirts a small amount of urine as a scent mark) as this behaviour is largely driven by sex hormones.

Question 9

Do I need to microchip my cat?

Accepted Answer

We recommend that all cats get microchipped. Even if your cat doesn't go outside, there is always the chance your cat may escape. Indoor or outdoor, a microchip ensures your cat is always linked to you. Found cats brought to vet practices or rescues will always be scanned for a microchip and the associated details will be contacted. For this reason, we recommend keeping microchip details up to date. This can be done by phoning the database your cat's microchip is registered with. For microchips implanted at The Cat Clinic, this database is PetTrac.

Question 10

How do I care for my cat's teeth?

Accepted Answer

Dental care is a crucial part of cat's health that is often overlooked by owners. 85% of cats 3 years or older are thought to have some form of dental disease. Routine check-ups at the vet are essential for catching early stages of dental disease that might otherwise go unnoticed. Other methods of caring for your cat's teeth at home might include dental diets or brushing your cat's teeth.

Question 11

What should I feed my cat?

Accepted Answer

Your cat's diet will vary based on its preferences and needs, however all cats should be fed a complete diet. A complete diet includes a balanced amount of protein, fats, carbohydrates and vitamins. Ideally your cat should be fed a mixture of wet and dry food, as wet food provides hydration key to kidney health and dry food supports healthy teeth and gut function. Cats should be fed an amount according to their ideal weight, usually provided on the back of food packaging. Our team will be able to answer any questions you have specific to your cat's diet.

Question 12

What should I know before I get a cat?

Accepted Answer

Before getting a cat it's important to take into account the considerations of cat ownership. Cats are long term commitments that require time, funds and knowledge. Be prepared for the challenges along with the joys before jumping into cat ownership. If you are wondering where to get your new furry friend, cat rescues are always looking for loving homes for cats of all ages and needs.

Question 13

I am traveling abroad with my cat, what should I know?

Accepted Answer

We require that all owners do their own research before traveling abroad with their cat, as requirements differ based on the destination. Most destinations will require an Animal Health Certificate (EU) or an Export Health Certificate to be completed by an Official Veterinarian (OV) before travel. Many countries will also require a rabies vaccination to be given a certain number of days before travel. Airlines may also require a Fit-to-Fly certificate to be completed by an OV.

Question 14

What are FeLV, FIV and cat flu?

Accepted Answer

FeLV (Feline Leukaemia Virus) and FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus) are viral infections that affect a cat’s immune system, making it harder for them to fight off other illnesses. Both are mainly spread through close contact with infected cats, such as biting or grooming. While there is no cure, early diagnosis and supportive care can help many cats live comfortable lives.

Cat flu is a common term for upper respiratory infections in cats, often causing sneezing, a runny nose, watery eyes, and sometimes mouth ulcers or a reduced appetite. Many cases are mild, but some cats (especially kittens or older cats) may need treatment and supportive care. Vaccination plays an important role in protecting against cat flu and reducing the severity of symptoms.

If you’re ever concerned about your cat’s symptoms or risk factors, our team is here to offer advice and arrange testing where needed.

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