When was the last time we saw your cat?

A new study by the American Association of Feline Practitioners says that fewer than 48 percent of cats receive regular veterinary care. Why? Check out these common kitty myths.

According to a recent survey…

Myth #1: Fifty-one percent of cat owners believe that felines are “low maintenance” pets.

While cats may certainly appear more low-key than their canine counterparts, they are not so different when it comes to veterinary care. Annual wellness exams are vital for the health and happiness of all pets. Regular examinations, blood panels and urine screenings can help ward off illness by allowing your veterinarian to evaluate subtle changes you may not notice at home (see Myth #2).

Myth #2: Seventy-five percent of cat owners do not believe that cats hide symptoms.

Hiding pain and illness is a natural feline instinct. In the wild, a sick or injured cat is viewed as weak or vulnerable by predators; therefore, hiding these symptoms is simply a method of survival. Unfortunately for domestic cats, this often means that diseases are not treated until they’ve reached advanced stages.

Myth #3: Sixty-three percent of cat owners think indoor cats have a low risk of problems.

Closed doors don’t keep out as much as you think. While an indoor cat is much less likely to contract an infectious disease or experience traumatic injury, an indoor environment does not create immunity from other illnesses, like heart or kidney disease, or even parasites. For example, studies show that 25 percent of cats diagnosed with heartworm disease—transmitted via mosquito bite—are indoor-only. Fleas are also a common problem for indoor cats, especially in the summer. Keep in mind that your cat may not go in and out, but you do!

Take Your Cat to the Vet Day was created to help dispel these common misconceptions and encourage more veterinary visits for our feline friends.

At The Drake Center, we are celebrating National Take Your Cat to the Vet Day by offering $25 off a feline exam Thursday, August 22 and Friday, August 23. (House calls not included.) Print this page and bring it to your cat’s appointment or mention “Take Your Cat to the Vet Day” when scheduling to redeem. Appointments will be given on a first come, first served basis.

We are also offering $10 off every Program injection for the month of August! Please mention this offer when scheduling to receive the discount.