How to Assemble a First Aid Kit for Cats

There are times when a cat may need medical attention and you're unable to get to the veterinarian right away. It's best to be prepared for these emergencies. While all medical concerns should be addressed by a medical professional as soon as possible, it's a good idea to have a first aid kit on hand for the cat. Assemble a complete kit to address medical emergencies.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Collect supplies for the first aid kit in a small box with a lid with a latch. Use a small plastic tool box or tackle box. Keep the box close to the cat's food supply so that it is readily available.
2. Include a rectal thermometer. Choose the digital variety for a quick read. Also include small scissors with blunt ends, an eye dropper and a pair of tweezers with sharp, pointed ends.
3. Have on hand an assortment of bandaging and swabbing materials. Include sterile gauze pads, rolled gauze, cotton balls, cotton pads and bandage tape.
4. Keep hydrogen peroxide, sterile eyewash, antiseptic cleaner and hydrocortisone cream in the first aid kit. Be familiar with each treatment and its use. Note the expiration date on supplies. Rotate and replace them as needed.
5. Purchase a veterinarian first aid manual and keep it with the first aid kit. Be familiar with common first aid emergencies in order to be prepared beforehand.
6. Print waterproof labels or write with a waterproof marker on the inside of the first aid kit lid. Include day, evening and emergency phone numbers of the veterinarian and emergency veterinarian hospital. Keep the cat's medical records in a zip top bag in the first aid kit as well.