The Pet Owners Corner
Dear Cattalker: I heard you can show your pet cat at a cat show, is that true?
Mark Z
Dear Mark: Yes, you can, provided your cat is not declawed, and is in good health. It is a fun way to share time with cats that are open to being handled and enjoy being around people. More information can be found at CFA.org and by visiting a show near you. (Show schedules are also on CFA.org). We hope to see you at a cat show soon.
Dear Cattalker: My neighbor uses wood pellets for litter. Is that safe?
Cheryl G
Dear Cheryl: Yes, wood pellets are safe to use as cat litter. Hardwood pellets that you burn in a wood stove are safe. Pine pellet bedding for horses is made of softwood and is also safe to use as litter and has a pleasing soft scent. Because it is a soft wood, it breaks down more quickly than the hard wood pellets. Rabbit pellets – compacted alfalfa – are also good; a couple handfuls added to your kitty’s regular litter give a clean, outdoors scent to the litter box.
Many owners use these pellets because they lessen tracking of litter, are less expensive, and are well accepted. Wood pellets usually come in 40 lb. bags and depending on your location, cost between $6 and $10 a bag. Wood pellets are safe, effective options for your cat’s litter pan.
Dear Cattalker: Our cat is indoor only. Does it really need to be vaccinated?
Rose R
Dear Rose: The short answer is YES. Distemper vaccines are usually started when your cat is a kitten. Just like human babies, they receive a series of vaccines. After that series a booster is given, and now updates are every three years! Rabies vaccines are required by law in many jurisdictions. Even though your cat is indoor only, if it’s the law, your veterinarian must give rabies shots. It is a precaution for kitty and for you. While unlikely your cat would ever be exposed, the risk is not worth taking. Other vaccines are not considered CORE or essential and are based on the types of exposures your cat might have. For example, if you have more than one kitty, even if they are indoor only, your veterinarian may recommend additional vaccinations. Talk to your veterinarian about the need for Feline Leukemia vaccines, and Bordetella vaccine. Most cats will only require distemper and rabies.
Pet Owners Corner is designed to answer common questions that pet owners may have. Answers will be simple and straight forward. No questions are too silly to ask; if you have that question, others probably do as well. No medical advice will be given because diagnosing and treating is not possible without a proper veterinary examination.
You may send your questions to: Cattalker2024@gmail.com