How to Care for a Sick Cat

Tender Loving Care (TLC) is a vital part of your cat's successful recovery and it depends on you. Cats respond well to a large dose of that magic ingredient, otherwise known as tender loving care. A warm bed, tasty food and the company of their favorite person constitute the ideal prescription for a speedy recovery.

Things You'll Need

• Towel or blanket
• Cotton swabs
• Thermometer
• Vaseline
• Mineral oil
• Elizabethan collar
• Medications

Instructions

Home Care

1. Follow instructions. Pay close attention to your vet's instructions. Don't be afraid to ask for them in writing.

2. Ask for a demonstration. Have your vet demonstrate anything you are uncertain about doing, such as the best method for giving medication or the proper way to restrain your feline.

3. Prepare for emergencies. Be sure to find out who to call should you encounter an emergency. Ask if there is a pet emergency room in your area.

4. Designate a sick area. Keep your cat in a corner of the room that is away from activity. Create a makeshift sick bed by placing a washable blanket inside a box. Have a litter box close by.

Feeding Your Sick Cat

1. Feed regular foods. Unless otherwise advised by your vet, feed your cat tempting, high-value, tissue-building foods. They should be rich in protein and include the necessary vitamins and minerals for good health.

2. Feed by hand. If your sick cat is weak he may have to be fed liquid or soft foods by hand. A liquid diet also may be needed if your cat can't hold down solids. Liquids should be placed in a plastic bottle. Take the loose skin from one side of your cat's mouth near the corner and pull it away from the teeth, making a pouch. Insert bottle. Place soft foods on the cat's tongue.

3. Tempt your cat by heating his favorite foods and allowing the aroma to be released. Stroking or grooming also may stimulate appetite.

General Care

1. Take its temperature. You should take your cat's temperature twice a day. Generally, it will be low in the morning and higher in the afternoon and evening. With your cat on your lap or other flat surface, coat the bulb end of a rectal thermometer with petroleum jelly or mineral oil and insert it about one inch into the rectum. Remove it after three to five minutes, clean with absorbent cotton and read it. Normal range for a cat is between 101 and 102 degrees.

2. Check its pulse. Place your finger in the inside of your cat's thigh and count the number of heartbeats per minute. Normal pulse rate is between 110 and 130 beats per minute. Its heart beats between 90 and 100 times per minute.

3. Change bandages. Do this only if instructed by your vet. If your cat is pulling at his bandages and dressing fit him with an Elizabethan collar.

4. Keep records. If your cat is recovering from surgery or has a serious illness you should keep track of his recovery. Record your cat's temperature; how much he eats and drinks; frequency of urination and bowel movement; times and amounts of medication given, and any changes in his condition.

5. Call your vet. There are general things to look for that may signal problems or complications. Contact your vet if you notice: anorexia or inappetence, cough, dhiscencee, depression, diarrhea, discharge and odor, fever, bleeding, swelling, heat and redness, pain, pallor, regression or vomiting.

Tips & Warnings

• Always notify your vet if there is a change in your cat's condition.

• Be sure you have enough medication for the weekend.

• Keep all medicines and sharp instruments locked, especially if children are nearby.

• If your cat is nervous or excited wrap it in a towel or place him in a cat bag.

• Anorexia or "inappetence" is when your cat isn't interested in food within the first 24 to 36 hours. "Dehiscence" is a surgical wound that ruptures or splits open. Contact your vet if your cat exhibits these symptoms.