Regular preventative care is essential to promoting the long-term health and well-being of your pet. At The Drake Center, we recommend:
  • Annual fecal exam for screening of intestinal parasites: Many intestinal parasites can be detected with a microscopic examination of a small stool sample. An annual fecal exam allows for rapid diagnosis and treatment if parasites are present. Most cats with parasites have normal stool and would go undetected without routine testing.
  • Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) and Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) testing: Many shelter kittens are screened for these infectious diseases between six and eight weeks of age but they can be tested by us after adoption if not already done. However, since false positive results can occur, kittens should be retested in cases of positive tests. There is no cure for FIV or FeLV. Annual testing for outdoor cats is also recommended.
  • Annual Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) vaccine: Feline leukemia virus is one of the most common fatal diseases of cats. Because the illness is transmitted primarily through other cats with fighting or with saliva contact, vaccination is strongly recommended for outdoor cats yearly.
  • Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis/Calcivirus/Panleukopenia (FVRCP) vaccine every three years: This vaccine protects your cat against many feline illnesses, including "feline distemper" (panleukopenia). Initially, this vaccine should be administered to kittens prior to one year of age. Revaccination should occur every three years after the initial one year booster.
  • Rabies vaccine every three years: This vaccination is strongly recommended for all cats, though it is not required by law in California. Revaccination should occur every three years after an initial one year booster.
  • Regular blood work and urine screening tests: We recommend one blood panel and urine screening test on each pet before six months of age and then every one to two years as needed. We recommend annual labs for all cats over eight years of age.
  • Monthly flea and internal parasite control: We recommend topical Bravecto Plus or Revolution for intestinal parasites, heartworm, fleas, and ticks. Bravecto is applied once every 2 months or Revolution is once monthly.
  • Regular home dental care: Daily brushing is recommended for the health and maintenance of your cat’s teeth. In addition, a thorough COHAT dental cleaning is recommended for most pets by three to four years of age.