America's Favorite Pet

There is an estimated 96 million owned cats in America, making them the most popular pet in the country! With 63% of pet owners saying that their cats a true members of their families.  Our furry companions require a lot of patience, investment and reward. Being instinctually independent creatures, cats are very unique. They sleep about 70% of their lives, the equivalent of 16 hours a day; and they exhibit the most unusual behaviors. A favorite of these is the familiar humming “purr”, which they can produce as loud as a diesel engine and at a speed of 26 “purrs” per second. Additional traits that make our furry felines so popular is their ability to adapt as indoor or outdoor pets and in multi or single pet families, they can jump as much as seven times their height, see incredible well at night, and even distinguish between colors! Research as shown that a cat’s brain is more similar to a human’s than a dog’s brain and so it comes as no surprise that these family members get spoiled by American pet owners who spend a collective $100 million dollars annually on treats and toys alone for their cats!

While these purrs-tastic pets get pampered at home, they are also the least likely pet to be seen behind the dog at a veterinarian’s office.  Many cats are fearful of car rides and their carriers, which makes it harder for them to get regular medical care. Having an unhappy, nervous cat can make it difficult for owners to decide whether it is worth the scratching and clawing to get them into the vet and may delay important examinations and vaccinations. The best way to ensure that your cat will be manageable with getting to the vet is training from a young age and daily exposure to their carriers. Have the carrier in a room that is familiar to the cat and line with bedding to make it feel comfortable. The goal is to make the cat carrier a safe and secure area where they are used to relaxing and can associate with good feelings. If you can avoid it, do not force your cat in the carrier. Simply set it down and walk away. Pet owners can also use a product called Feilway, a pheromonal anti-anxiety spray or wipe that can be applied to the carrier or bedding to help keep your cat calm. Carriers that load from the top or in the middle are helpful for veterinarians to access the cat, letting them examine your pet while they are still sitting comfortably. 

Cat owners spent an average of $193 a year on preventive veterinary care. Bi-annual exams, vaccinations, proper oral health, parasite checks, and nutritional counseling are the main areas of focus to keep our beloved pets healthy and more importantly happy. Taking the time and effort to help make doctor visits enjoyable and painless will extend the life of our pets and help keep illnesses and diseases at bay. Investing in your cat’s health ensures that they remain a true member of your family for years to come!