How can we truly know the health status of our feline companions? Since they cannot speak to tell us when they are in pain, and being natural 'masters of disguise,' cats are incredibly adept at hiding symptoms of illness quite effectively.

Today, we will share how to observe subtle abnormalities and the importance of basic health screenings to gain insights into your cat’s well-being. Because cats are remarkably resilient and adapt so well to physical discomfort, they often show no obvious signs of distress. It is, therefore, essential to monitor their physical appearance and behavioral changes closely, alongside regular veterinary checkups.

Feline Health Checkup

1.General Physical Examination 

This is a comprehensive assessment of vital signs and overall body condition. The examination includes Vital Signs Monitoring , General Physical Assessment , Body Condition Scoring (BCS)

2. Blood Examination

Once the physical exam is complete, a blood test is essential to evaluate the internal function of various organs. This includes

• Complete Blood Count (CBC) This test measures red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. It is used to detect conditions such as anemia, low white blood cell counts (leukopenia), or abnormal platelet levels.
• Blood Chemistry These values indicate the health and efficiency of vital organs, specifically assessing liver function, kidney function, blood glucose levels, and total blood protein.
• Viral Screening (FIV & FeLV) Using rapid test kits to screen for Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) and Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV). Since these viruses are prevalent in Thailand, regular screening is highly recommended for all cats.

3.Urinalysis 

Urinalysis is a fundamental health indicator that provides crucial information about kidney function. By analyzing the physical and chemical properties of urine—such as color, sediment, and specific gravity—veterinarians can detect early signs of urinary tract issues or renal dysfunction.

4. Abdominal Ultrasound  

While blood tests evaluate organ function, an abdominal ultrasound provides a detailed visual assessment of organ structures. This diagnostic imaging is essential for identifying abnormalities or hereditary conditions. For example, in Persian cats, ultrasound is used to screen for Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD), a genetic condition that causes cysts to develop within the kidneys. 

Recommended Frequency

• Cats under 5 years old: At least once a year.
• Cats over 5 years old (Senior care): Every 6 months for closer monitoring.

24-Hour Veterinary Hospital and Comprehensive Pet Care

For pet owners who prioritize their pets' well-being and seek professional 24-hour guidance—available both Online and Onsite—we highly recommend Thonglor Pet Hospital. We provide a full spectrum of specialized medical centers, including Dermatology & Allergy, and Cardiology for both cats and dogs. Our dedicated team of veterinarians, nurses, and support staff is stationed 24/7 to ensure your beloved companions receive immediate care whenever they need it. (Please book an appointment in advance).

Rest assured, Thonglor Pet Hospital offers extensive coverage with 1 international branch in Vietnam and over 20 domestic branches throughout Thailand, including Chiang Mai, Tiwanon, Phuket, Pattaya, Rayong, and many other locations. All branches utilize a unified internal data management system, ensuring seamless and consistent care for your pet nationwide.

In addition to our medical excellence, our entire staff is professionally trained in animal behavior. This ensures your pets feel happy, safe, and comfortable, especially when using our Pet Boarding services while you are away. For boarding inquiries or other specialized services, please contact us via the details below.