Cat Health Symptoms

i got health care for my cat is this right??? plz help if you can thanks?

the first time i went in there they said he was the healthiest cat they have ever seen and i took him in there yesterday and they said that his teeth had tarter on them and he had flea dust and his weight dropped almost a pound and i called them up and they said they it was normal but i think they are just wanting more money what should i tell them and also they said they want to shave him because he has one tiny not in his fur on his stomach should i do it i dont think it needs to be cut but i dont know because i have never gotten health insurance for mt cat of any animal before thanks no he only has one small not on his tummy and thats just because he is a long haired cat and he is not unhealthy or anything and they said it would be 60 dollars to Sadat him he is 10 months old

Public Comments

1. They usually want some more money... You can clean your cat's teeth yourself with a special wipes or with brush and a toothpaste for cats. Why shave a cat? Does he really need such a procedure? Is he going to a surgery? I think he is not.Me advice to you - consult another vet.
2. I am not a big fan of pet insurance. The knot (I'm assuming a mat) can be clipped out preferably with a men's electric trimmer. PLEASE be careful though - no one wants to suture an accidental skin & mat trim. Older cats will have tartar, and it can be a problem at some point. Gum recession is a clear indication that it is time for a dental cleaning. Bacteria that developes on the teeth can cause kidney and liver damage when left too long (6 years + in general, although there are exceptions) You can check for flea dirt yourself. Use a fine-tooth comb, and comb a section of your cat's hair. Wipe it on to a paper towel, and spritz it. If you see little red dots, you've got fleas. If you do, invest in something you can pick up at the clinic such as frontline or promeris. DO NOT use flea control you can pick up in the pet store. They are VERY strong, and will kill the fleas, but are also known to kill your pet. If your cat survives it, they will only last about half the time anway. Weights can fluctuate, and it may be non-consiquential, but it could also indicate something much larger, which could only be determined through bloodwork. Cats are prone to hyperthyroidism - an overactive thyroid, which can lead to weight loss. Vets in general are not out to get your money. Animal care is expensive, and every clinic will begin the day almost $600 in the hole. Medicine in general tends to be "defensive" - meaning they would rather be safe than sorry, regardless of cost. If you are concerned about your vet, get a second opinion, and consider switching clinics.
3. I couldn't have said it any better than Sarah. Pet insurance is typically not a good deal. Let's face it, the insurance companies want to pay for as few claims as they have to in order to profit. You may be better off saving that money for vet care. Teeth problems in pets are very common today due to the modern diet that they are fed. It is critical that the health of the teeth be maintained. You cannot remove tarter by yourself. You must start with a professional cleaning/scaling by a vet (usually under anesthesia), then you can help maintain dental health by feeding a good diet, brushing, rinses, treats that clean teeth, etc. Mats or knots in the fur can be removed if you are very careful and patient. Never attempt to remove knots out by pulling with a comb. This irritates the skin and can even tear skin out. You can sometimes free up knots by working them with both hands and pulling the knot apart sideways. If attempting to cut knots out, be very careful that you stay clear of the skin. Scissors or electric clippers can very easily slice into the thin skin causing a nasty wound. Be very patient and cut a little at a time. Flea infestations can result in disease which may be the cause of weight loss. Keep your cat indoors to minimize fleas (and also protect it from numerous other dangers). Clean all bedding, rugs and furniture to make sure you eliminate any flea eggs. Many of the vets usually recommend Frontline or Revolution for treating the cat, but these are strong chemicals and could be toxic. If you must use a chemical, try Advantage.