Outdoor cats are exposed to many more health risks than indoor cats—cars, dogs, fight wounds, becoming lost, heartworm infection, flea infestation, intestinal parasites, Leukemia Virus infection and Immunodeficiency Virus infection. Therefore, we need to take an entirely different approach to preventive medicine for the outdoor cat. The term “outdoor cat” does not mean that it is outdoors exclusively. Any cat that spends any time outdoors (even screened porches, patios, decks, etc.) is at risk of exposure to heartworm and viral infections.

LEUKEMIA VIRUS & IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS INFECTION
These infections are the most serious threats to the outdoor cat. They are similar to HIV infection in humans, affect the immune system and are highly fatal. There is no treatment.
SOLUTION: Vaccinate yearly for Leukemia Virus and Immunodeficiency Virus. Test yearly for FLV and FIV if not vaccinated. Test 6 months after fight wounds. It is important to identify positive cats. We can’t eliminate the infection but there are things we can do to improve their survival rate.

HEARTWORMS
We used to feel that only dogs were at risk but now we know differently. This mosquito-transmitted disease exhibits few symptoms and can easily be fatal.
SOLUTION: Use Revolution monthly for control of heartworms, fleas, ticks, ear mites, Sarcoptic mites and some internal parasites.

FLEAS
Fleas are the source of severe skin allergies and the carrier of tapeworms. Our pets can easily bring the problem indoors and establish flea populations in the house.
SOLUTION: Use Revolution monthly for control of heartwoms, fleas, ticks, ear mites, Sarcoptic mites and some internal parasites.

INTERNAL PARASITES
Outdoor pets are easily exposed to a variety of parasites.
SOLUTION: Bring in a fecal specimen yearly for testing. Treat if indicated. Watch for tapeworms as they rarely show up on testing.

FIGHT WOUNDS
Cats are very territorial and fights are common. Fight wounds are dirty wounds and commonly result in abscesses or severe infections.
SOLUTION: All wounds should be examined and treated as soon as they are identified.

LOST PETS
Roaming cats are frequently picked up by Animal Control and taken to shelters where they may be euthanized or placed in other homes.
SOLUTION: Have a microchip implanted in your pet. This is a simple, inexpensive identification method that cannot be lost or removed. Shelters routinely scan stray pets for chips and when found, the owner is identified and reunited with their pet.