Cat Care Guide

Cat CareGuideIt’s all about

the cat.

Congratulations!

You have just acquired a delightful cat, and we wish you all the best with your new companion. There are certainly many things to consider such as which diet to feed, how to provide the best education and how to keep your cat in optimal health. To help you we are pleased to provide you with the Cat Guide. You’ll �nd comprehensive information written by cat experts on Care, Nutrition, Behavior and First Aid. You’ll also �nd an immunization and health care record, all in one easy-to-read informative guide.

The cat is an unrelenting hunter, keeping the original characteristics of a pure carnivore. Noble and proud, the cat is also gifted with an enormous power of seduction and she does not hesitate to use all her great charm to achieve what she wants. This characteristic helps to explain the attraction that this exceptional companion exercises over so many of us and why we respect it.

Knowing and respecting the cat’s special needs is the approach of ROYAL CANIN. Scienti�c research helps to con�rm that the cat possesses physiological and digestive features which are unique to it: high sense of smell, low sense of taste and a simple digestive system. These characteristics necessitate a speci�c nutritional approach, di�erent from that of dogs and of people.

ROYAL CANIN Health Nutrition is a full range of products designed to meet the needs of every cat. Whether your cat has a sensitive stomach, lives exclusively indoors, is a small cat, or a senior cat, we have a precise nutritional answer for her.

ROYAL CANIN is a world leader in health nutrition and dedicated solely to the knowledge and respect for dogs and cats. With our more than 40 years of serving dogs’ and cats’ nutritional needs, through retail and veterinary products, you can feel con�dent that you are providing your cat with the absolute best nutrition.

I invite you to explore these pages full of valuable information and enjoy the wonderful pleasures your new cat will bring.

Denise Elliott BVSc (Hons) PhD Dipl ASCVIM Dipl ACVNDirector of Scienti�c Communications

Cat Guide Contents

CARE

NUTRITION

HEALTH CARE

FIRST AID

Your Cat 1u Your Cat’s Senses 2uThe Cat’s Taste and Teeth 4uPreparing Your Cat’s Home 5uYour Cat’s Activities 6uYour Cat’s Personality 7uYour Cat’s Communication 8uYour Cat’s Body Language 9u

First Aid for Cats 1f Checking Vital Signs Handling and Transporting Emergency Action Steps 2f Bee or Wasp Sting Bleeding Choking Heat Stroke Limping Unconsciousness Vomiting Poisonous Substances 4f Symptoms Common Poisons Toxic Plants 5f Systems AffectedCPR for Cats 6f

Your Cat’s Health Care 1h Preventive Measures 2h Vaccinations 3h Internal Parasite Prevention 4h External Parasite Prevention 5h

Preparing for Your New Cat 1cMaking Your Home Safe 2c Basic Equipment 3c At Home Together 4c Cat Grooming Behaviors 6c Your Cat’s Hygiene 8c Caring for Claws and Teeth 9c

The Science of Nutrition 1nWhy Cats Are Different 2n Digestion and Taste 3n Health Nutrition 4n Feeding Guidelines for Cats 5n

YOUR CAT

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Your Cat

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Your CatUnderstanding Your Cat Now that you have a new cat, it’s important that you are aware of some key points about her development and nature, and the way she responds and adapts to her environment. Cats are incredible animals and excellent companions, but, especially if this is your first cat, they can be a bit of a puzzle to understand. The essentials of your cat’s education take place during the period from birth to the age of six months. In fact, most behaviors are acquired by the age of three months, thanks to the mother’s dominant role, as well as siblings.

Influencing BehaviorThe cat learns in two different ways: she starts by imitating her mother’s actions, and then she learns by herself by means of experimenting. In this case, she acts and faces the consequences of her actions. If the cat finds the response pleasant, she tends to favor the action.

So, when you adopt a cat, your contribution to the foundations of her education is limited but still makes you responsible. You have to complete her education, in the context of her new environment, and correct any unwanted behaviors. A better understanding of the nature of cats, and how their specific physical traits contribute to their behavior, will help you to nurture and influence your cat’s behavior. It may also provide some important insights to assist you in welcoming your cat to your family and encouraging her to bond with and accept her new family as her own.

You are responsible for yourcat’s education

Cats need a stimulating environment

Understanding the cat’s nature will help you influence your cat’s behaivor

Your Cat’s Senses

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A cat’s hearing is more developed than that of humans

Cats have excellent vision

Cats can register the faintest particles of light and the slightest contrast

EyesThe Egyptians, who worshipped cats, used the same symbol to depict the cat and the idea of vision. Due to the composition of its retina, the cat, a predator by nature, is blessed with excellent night vision. The cat’s sensory membrane, lining the posterior chamber of the eye, has 200 million rods, cells that are very sensitive to light, compared to only 120 million in human beings. Vitamin A is an important contributor to night vision, as it aids in adaptation, allowing a cat to quickly adjust to differing light. But, unlike humans and dogs, cats cannot produce Vitamin A from vegetable carotene and must absorb it from either animal sources or purified supplements. The final contributor to the cat’s excellent night vision is the presence of a “mirror” behind the retina, the Tapetum lucidum, which reflects the unabsorbed light and gives the impression of eyes that glow in the dark.

Cat’s most important sense organ, the eye, is thus capable of registering the faintest particles of light and the slightest contrast.

EarsA cat’s hearing is much more developed than ours or that of a dog, with a range of perceived vibrations three times greater, especially in the high-pitched sounds. Cats can hear ultrasound of up to 60,000 Hz. A cat has an ear for music, as she can distinguish minute differences of tone, whatever their intensity. Her ears work like radar--they are, due to a set of some twenty muscles, able to direct themselves independently to localize the source of a sound.

To ensure a cat’s vision and hearing are properly cared for, the correct portions of necessary vitamins, minerals

and nutrients must be maintained through diet. Too much of a certain ingredient can be just as dangerous as too little, which is why it’s

best for you to feed your cat a scientifically balanced food developed for a cat’s specific nutritional needs, rather than table scraps.

Nose and Whiskers With 60 - 65 million olfactory cells, a cat’s nose is much more sensitive than ours but not as keen as that of the dog, which has three to four times as many cells. In fact, the sense of smell plays a minor part in the prey-seeking phase, unlike with the dog, but reveals its full importance in moments of feeding and socializing with her fellow felines or with humans. When a cat comes close to a food source with a smell she doesn’t respond to, she will frequently reject the food, and a cat’s preference of one food over another is almost solely based on smell. This is why it’s important to regularly clean the cat’s bowl and feeding area, and it also explains why she sometimes rejects certain foods.

Felines have a secondary olfactory system, known as the vomeronasal organ, capable of detecting the chemical substances that characterize a species, the pheromones.

These are especially important for the marking of territory and in sexual approaches. To detect them, felines have a special behavior called “flehmen”: they curl back their upper lips while half opening the mouth in a sneer that gives the impression that they are laughing at you. The vibrissae are long, stiff, extremely sensitive hairs that transmit vital information about the tactile environment of the cat. They grow on the upper lips (the famous “cat’s whiskers”), on the eyebrows, on the cheeks and even on the back of the front paws. Essential for hunting and for finding the way at night, they act as antennae, allowing accurate detection of moving or stationary objects by degrees of heat and air turbulence. Their extreme length stops the cat from running into obstacles and helps her to gauge the width of a gap and avoid getting stuck.


Cats have a strong sense of smell

Smell is more important than taste

Cats prefer clean bowls & eating areas

The Cat’s Taste and Teeth


Cats do not have a keen sense of taste

Cats do not chew their food much

Shape, size, texture and hardnessof the kibbles influences palatability

Taste Although the cat is able to detect the four primary tastes (acid, salty, sour, sweet), her 500 taste buds – compared to 9,000 in humans – do not endow her with any keen sense of taste. Her choice in food is more a matter of smell than of taste. She prefers the acid taste to the bitter taste, which in turn is preferred to the salty taste, while she is simply not interested in sweet tastes.

In fact, these particularities are connected with her diet. Cats do not chew their food much. That is why the texture and grain size of the food we give her are so important. Oddly enough, cats prefer either very “wet” food or very dry food (kibbles) and do not think much of sticky particles. The shape, size, texture and hardness of the kibbles influence palatability and consumption as well as helping to keep the cat’s teeth strong and healthy by encouraging chewing.

A high sensitivity to bitterness helps the cat to avoid toxic substances, which often have a bitter taste. Cats are even cautious about what they drink. Originally descendants of the desert, cats have special taste receptors for water and can quite easily tell the difference between two different kinds of water.

Teeth Another typical feature of a true carnivore diet, the eyeteeth or canines are the most developed and the sharpest. They are used to catch and kill unlucky mice and birds… and sometimes to ward off an attacker. The much-reduced incisors rip and bite off pieces of the prey. The molars then take over and shred it (premolars), then grind the tissues (posterior molars). Her tongue is like sandpaper, with backward-pointing papillae that help to strip the meat from the bone.

Litter BoxThis must always be easily accessible by your cat and should be distant from her food dish and your living area. If this lesson has not been learned, place the cat in the litter box. Dig a hole with her paw and then show the cat how to cover what she has excreted. Repeat this exercise once or twice and the cat should start to do this by herself.

Rest AreaYour cat prefers to rest in a warm spot. A space near a heat source (heating vents, sunny window, etc.) is best. Being close to you is always impor-tant, so the cat’s bed should not be too far away from your living area. However, your bedroom may not be the right place unless you intend to have her stay there always.

Introduce the cat to the new bed or make the transport carrier accessible with the same bedding for familiarity.

To live in harmony with your cat, it is essential to understand the organization of her terri-tory and basic activities. Once her territory is defined, your cat will spend most of the time sleeping. When not sleeping, her main occupations will be playing, eating and cuddling.

A cat’s territory is exclusive, and quality is more important than space.

Your cat will identify your home as her territory. Inside your home, the cat organizes her life around four key areas. You must respect this organization without disturbing her, or you risk causing certain behavioral problems in your cat.

Eating AreaThis must be removed from her litter box and from your own eating area. Avoid your kitchen or your dining room so that your cat does not confuse your plate with her dish and sample your meal. This could lead to a nutritional imbalance.

Play AreaThis is the biggest area. It must be conducive to playing, racing about, and climbing up high (tables, cupboards, shelves, the backs of furniture, etc.).

Preparing Your Cat’s Home


Avoid feeding your cat in thesame rooms where you eat

The litter box should be far awayfrom the cat’s eating area

Cats like to nap near heat sources

ExerciseExercise is essential for your cat’s well being. It provides a means to channel energy into toning muscles, rather than using that energy for destruc-tive purposes. Favorite exer-cises are those which allow her to climb, perch, jump, sharpen the claws and play with toys (ball of paper, toy mouse, hard ball with bell, etc.).

PlayPlaying is a major part of the cat’s socialization. Playing encourages exploration of her surroundings and develops physical capabilities. Playing is also an antidote to isolation.

For the cat, playing and hunt-ing are two closely linked activities, and a toy is often identified as the prey. Your cat’s natural hunting instinct may lead to aggressive behav-ior. Don’t hesitate to reprimand the cat and make sure she understands such behavior is not acceptable.

RoostingYour cat loves being up high. Being at the same height as your face makes her happy. She can rub against you, as with an equal. If your home does not have enough places that are high and safe, try to make some by changing your surroundings a little or by providing a cat tree.

SleepAdult cats sleep 16 hours a day on average, split into several periods throughout the day.

Your Cat’s Activities


Adult cats sleep on average16 hours a day

Playing is a major part of thecat’s socialization

Exercise can keep your cat away from destructive activities

Cat’s Personality TestsAluminum Foil Ball TestRoll a ball of aluminum foil in front of your cat. If she is slow to react, she may be expressing fear or great indifference to outside movement.

Noise TestClap your hands loudly with the cat seeing you. If she acts curi-ous while staying calm, your cat has been brought up in a full and stimulating environment. If the cat runs away, you must very quickly expose her to the noises of everyday life so she can become accustomed to the sounds of your household.

Socialization TestObserve your cat from a distance:

If your cat runs to play with your shoelaces or rubs up against you, she has been properly socialized.

If your cat is nervous and tries to run away when you approach, she may not have been properly socialized or has a more timid personality. It is essential to start this phase again, by providing toys and playing with your cat.

Dominance TestA cat which easily allows her tummy to be stroked while lying on her back has perfectly assimilated your parental authority — she will be docile and good tempered. If she struggles or tries to scratch, she has not accepted your authority, and handling her may provoke an unexpected reaction such as a bite.

Your Cat’s Personality


Get to know your cat’s personality by playing with her

If your cat is slow to react, she may be afraid or indifferent

If your cat is nervous, she may not have been properly socialized


Your Cat’s CommunicationScratch MarksThese marks that your cat may leave on your furniture or walls have no precise explanation. It is not known if the scratch marks are combined with possible secretions coming from glands next to the paw pads, but, regardless, they mark territory. Such markings, which may also be a form of exercise, can sometimes turn catastrophic when the cat is afraid and becomes temporarily uncontrollable.

Cat LanguageThe image of the solitary feline in no way reflects the cat’s ability to communicate with fellow pets or with people. The cat demonstrates extraordinary talents of communication. She also uses different methods of communication depending on whether she wants to make herself understood to people or other animals.

Communication with PeopleWhile your cat does not understand your language, apart from certain words, she is very sensitive to your body language and postures. She can understand what you are feeling (sorrow or joy) and even anticipate what you are going to do.

Marking territory is natural behavior

Marking territory with urine or feces is common

Pheromones play a major role in a cat’s sexual & territorial behavior

Territory MarkingsYour cat’s habit of marking territory is a natural behavior and means of communication. It is made by depositing scents, hormonal secretions or scratch marks.

Scent DepositsMarking with urine and/or feces is by far the most common. Mainly males do this, after stress (transport, intrusion of another animal, etc.). This territorial marking is intended to inspire fear and make any intruder go away. The spray of urine is horizontal and powerful and generally marks a vertical surface (base of wall, sofa and anything that sticks out).

Hormonal SecretionsSpecific hormones, known as pheromones, play a major role in a cat’s sexual and territorial behavior. The cat marks a place another animal (dog or cat) has rubbed against. This gesture is an invitation to share territory

and is a sign of acceptance which can only take place

when the cat feels completely confident.

Your Cat’s Body Language


When she rubs her head or tail against your legs, she’s happy

Tail waving signals displeasure

There are many types of meows, each expressing something different

MovementLightly Touching She is connecting with her territory. With this movement, the cat deposits hormonal secretions from the glands under her ears against your ankles. This act of sharing scent shows you that your cat feels good and includes you in her territory.

Rubbing Against YouWhen the cat rubs her head or tail against your legs, she’s happy. Your cat feels good being close to you and wants to share her scent with you.

KneadingWhen the cat treads your knees for long periods, she is expressing intense pleasure. Your cat is revisiting the joy she felt when feeding from her mother. The same push-pull movement was used around the mother’s breast to stimulate the flow of milk. The copied movement indicates that the cat identifies you with her mother.

Rolling on the GroundWhen the cat rolls on the ground as soon as she sees you, she is showing submission. This position is only possible with people whom the cat is totally relaxed; this is an act of submis-sion associated with an earlier moment of relaxation.

Tail WavingWhen the cat moves her tail, she is expressing irritation. If you are stroking your cat and she starts to wave her tail, stop immediately. She is telling you that she doesn’t like what you’re doing.

SoundsPurringCats start to purr when first feeding from their mother, and it expresses huge satisfaction as well as total dependency on the mother. When your cat purrs with you, she is showing submission and contentment.

Growling and HissingThis are intimidation and can be used in an attack.

MeowingThere are a huge variety of meows, each with their own meaning. You will learn to recognize them by observing your cat.

Importance of WhiskersNever cut the whiskers. A cat uses her whiskers for the tactile exploration of her surroundings. Her whiskers are also used to communicate with other animals.

Neutral Cat Ears upright and open, eyes round.

Angry CatEars straight twisted to

the sides, eyes puckered.

Aggressive CatEars down, pupils round and dilated.

Happy CatEars open and forward upright, eyes half-closed, pupils in slits.

Facial ExpressionsThe shape of the eyes and the position of the ears are accurate indicators of

what she wants to express.

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Preparing for Your New CatChoosing a VeterinarianWhile this is an exciting time for you, it can be a rather frightening time of adjustment for your new cat.

It is important to have an initial checkup after obtaining your cat and to plan for follow-up care, so choosing a veterinarian before your new cat comes home can save time. If you don’t have a veterinarian, friends or family members with pets can make recommendations.

Here are a few tips for helping you choose a vet.

PreferenceMeet the veterinarian and see the facilities. The veterinary staff should be friendly and helpful. The veterinarian must be trustworthy and have expertise in dealing with cats.

ProximityChoose a veterinarian’s office that is close to your home. This is not only an issue of your convenience, but will allow you to get there quickly in case of an emergency.

HoursIt is important to make sure your vet’s hours of operation coincide with your schedule. Many veterinarians have extended evening or weekend hours to accommodate work schedules.

EmergenciesMany veterinarians refer to after-hours emergency clinics. Ask if the veterinarian answers after-hours emergency calls, or refers emergencies to a local clinic. If the vet refers to a clinic for after-hours emergencies, be sure to ask where the emergency clinic is located.

Ask family and friends for veterinarian recommendations

Schedule a veterinary visit soon after getting your cat

Keep emergency veterinary clinic numbers handy

Making Your Home Safe

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Your cat may feel very lonely once you bring her home To try and relieve this complete change of scenery, it is essential that you are ready to welcome your cat into her new family.

Dangers in the HomeAlthough you may not realize it, there are many dangers that exist inside your home, and oversights can be harmful to your cat’s safety. New habits and certain arrangements will help you to protect your cat from possible household accidents. By cat-proofing now, you can avoid a lot of heartache later.

Just as you would with a baby, you need to make sure the whole house is safe from anything dangerous the cat could get into. By getting down at the cat’s level, you can assess potential hazards.

Hide any exposed electrical wires and block unused electric outlets. Put all pesticides, weed and rat killers, and medications out of the cat’s reach. Put away small items such as rubber bands, pens, pencils, needles, etc. that your cat might choke on. Don’t leave plastic bags or things made out of foam lying around. Close the trash can lid and the toilet seat cover. Be careful with hot irons.

Remove all indoor plants that are in reach of your new cat, as many household plants are toxic to cats. Check the First Aid section of this booklet and with your veterinarian for a list of poisonous substances.

Cats have a tendency to lurk in cupboards, drawers and laundry baskets, and very often get inside washing machines and dryers. Look for possible hiding places to minimize the risk of accidents. Watch where you walk and take care to make sure your cat is not in the door-way when you shut doors.

Hide electrical wires and block unused outlets

Put away pesticides and medications

Many household plants aretoxic to cats

Basic Equipment


Before Your Cat’s Arrival It’s a good idea to have all the necessary items before the cat is brought home. Your list should include food, feeding bowls, a litter box, a bed and toys. All of these accessories are available in pet shops.

Food and Water BowlsA small one for dry cat food (an adult cat only eats four to six ounces of food per day) and a bigger one for fresh water, which must always be available. Glass, crystal or crock bowls are recommended.

Litter BoxA container that is deep enough and a scoop to remove droppings — also, a covered crate to avoid accidental spills and limit odors is recommended. However, some cats do not like covered litter boxes.

BeddingThe cat will choose its own place to sleep, but it is important to provide a warm, comfortable place where the cat will feel safe.

Scratching PostProviding appropriate places to scratch will help to avoid dam-age inside your home.

Cat TreeCats love to climb up high (dominant position) and twist around between two branches. A cat tree helps to limit excessive rushing about and jumping on furniture, while at the same time allowing the cat to satisfy her need for exercise.

ToysToys can be either bought or handmade.

Remember that your cat has just been brought into totally unknown surroundings. Curb your enthusiasm, move gently, and don’t shout. Avoid handling the cat excessively.

Be prepared with necessary items before you bring the cat home

Use glass, crystal or crock bowls for food and water

Avoid handling the cat excessively

At Home Together


You are now responsible for your cat’s safety. The cat will rely on you for confidence and protection. Take good care of your cat, as you are now responsible for proper health.

Handling Your CatRemember to handle your cat carefully. Rough or sudden movement can terrify your pet.

If you want to carry your cat, the best way is to slide one hand, open wide, under the stomach, with the other under the rear end for bigger breeds. Do not slide both hands under the front feet.

IntroductionsIntroducing the new environment, new family members, and possible fellow pets (dogs and/or cats already living in your household) is a very important stage in successfully integrating your cat into her new home. A poor introduction could cause a feeling of frustration and/or jealousy for your existing pet(s). The meeting must take place gradually and gently. You can take certain precautions and make subtle changes to protect your new cat from “accidents waiting to happen” inside your home.

Isolate the cat, so that she gradually learns the way about the house and doesn’t hide under furniture. Maintain your existing pet’s (dog and/or cat) privileges for the first few days, but make introductions soon after your cat arrives home so that she can be properly inte-grated into the household.

You are responsible for your cat’s safety

Supervise the cat’s introduction to other pets in the household

Total acceptance by the other animals in the house may take several months


Other Cats An adult cat already established in the house does not really appreciate invasion of her territory. She will show displeasure with threatening behavior. Total acceptance may take several months.

During the introduction, do not allow any aggression. Try introducing the cats on neutral territory during play or meal times. Repeat the process until the cats no longer mind each other’s presence and begin to share. A hierarchical relationship will then be established between the cats, a relationship that you must respect.

Dogs A well-socialized dog will easily accept the cat. Older dogs may be less tolerant, but a small scratch from your cat will soon make the dog less aggressive, and integration will generally take place quickly and without major problems.

ChildrenChildren often tend to almost smother the new arrival with attention. An adult cat is perfectly capable of avoiding children when she doesn’t want to be bothered.

You should explain to your children that the cat is not a toy. It is best not to allow young children to play with the cat when you are not present. Your supervision will ensure the child is gentle with the cat and aid in avoiding scratches.

An adult should always be present when children play with the cat

Take care to keep your new cat from becoming scared or injured

Never pull the cat’s tail or head

Cat Grooming Behaviors


Along with sleep, grooming is one of the cat’s top priorities. The front paws are moistened with the tongue and serve as a washcloth going as far as the ears. The back paws are very flexible, allowing the cat to groom all of her back and also the ears.

Brushing and Combing Your Cat Grooming your cat will soon become a treasured time of exchange and sharing between you and your cat. In addition, a beautiful coat is very much appreciated by the cat and reflects not only her good health but also the care and attention you give to her.

You must get your cat used to being brushed as soon as possible. This ritual will quickly become a time of shared pleasure and companionship. It is a good idea to end the brushing session with a cuddle or a game.

Brushing is not just a luxury; it’s a necessity. Removing the dead hair that accumulates in the fur prevents your cat swallowing it. Too much licking can cause hair to build up in the stomach, resulting in problematic hairballs. Hairballs can cause digestive problems like vomiting and diarrhea.

HairballsMost adult cats require a specially formulated diet to promote a healthy digestive transit and help expel hairballs. The regurgitation of hairballs is an essential physiological phenomenon and should not be confused with vomiting caused by food.

Cats groom themselves withtheir tongues and paws

People groom cats with brushes and combs

Brush first in the direction ofhair growth and then against it


Short-Haired BreedsWith short-haired cats, a weekly brushing is more than sufficient. Before brushing, you can massage against the hair direction with a “toothed” glove, which will eliminate dead hair and stimulate the skin. Brushing is done with a soft brush, preferably one with natural bristles, so as not to damage the coat.

Mid to Long-Haired Breeds and PersiansMid-to long-haired breeds need daily brushing for a few minutes to avoid the formation of knots and tangles and to eliminate dirt and parasites. A large toothed metal comb is the most suitable tool for grooming these breeds.

Be careful with the comb. A comb penetrates the coat better than a brush, but there is a greater risk of irritating the surface of the skin. Choose your comb carefully.

You must always comb your cat first in the direction of her hair and then against her hair, so as to gently remove dead hair and eliminate small knots. When a knot is difficult, work it gently and patiently rather than pulling hard and tearing out a tuft.

Areas behind the ears and neck are prone to forming knots and require special attention because the cat isn’t able to reach those areas herself. You should finish the grooming with the tail, brushing along its length (with the hair and against the hair) for maximum volume.

Short-haired breeds includeAbyssinian, American Shorthair, Burmese, Chartreaux, Cornish Rex, Japanese Bobtail, Manx

Long-haired breeds includeBalinese, Maine Coon, Persian, Ragdoll, Turkish Angora

Areas behind the ears and neck are the most prone to knots and tangles

Your Cat’s Hygiene


After filling the bottom of the bathtub or sink with water at 96-98 F, place your cat in it while reassuring her by strok-ing her and talking to her. Then wet the back, making sure that you don’t pour water into the eyes or ears. Avoid wetting the head. It is important to use a special cat shampoo formu-lated for your cat’s skin and hair (available in pet shops). Never use hair dye on your cat’s fur.

Wash her coat, concentrating on the dirty parts, and rinse thoroughly with clean water. It is imperative that all shampoo be rinsed from the coat. Towel dry with a warm, clean cloth and, depending on your cat’s hair length, you might want to use a hair dryer (make sure it’s on low heat) to finish drying.

Not all cat breeds have the same tolerance for water. Because bathing is necessary for medium and long-haired coats, you must get your cat used to water.

Giving the First BathThe first bath should be a pleasant experience. Take extreme caution not to frighten your cat. Begin by moisten-ing the cat with a warm, wet washcloth or sponge. If she reacts with hostility, reassure the cat and repeat this action until the cat accepts it. Rinse her thoroughly.

Get your cat used to taking baths

Avoid wetting the head

Use only shampoo made for cats

Caring for Claws and Teeth


Caring for Your Cat’s TeethTartar tends to build up on the teeth over time, causing inflam-mation of the gums and bad breath, which in extreme cases can lead to the teeth falling out. If this occurs, consult your vet.

Regular brushing with a soft, small toothbrush, or even a cloth, helps to reduce plaque and tartar formation. Certain dry cat foods also help to minimize plaque and/or tartar formation.

Clipping Your Cat’s ClawsThe cat most often uses her claws to mark her territory. To avoid the damage that this can cause, without violating her natural instincts, it is recommended that you cut or have your vet cut the tips of the claws.

Before doing this yourself, ask your vet to explain which part of the nail you can cut without risk.

Clipping the claws is not painful for the cat; however, she will never enjoy this procedure. Therefore, it is very important that you begin this practice at an early age, so she will trust and allow you to do so.

You should choose a comfortable spot and place the cat on your knees, holding her body between your thighs. After each clip, it is a good idea to relax the cat by rhythmic stroking.

Human nail clippers are ideal. Clip the white tip of the claw without ever going close to the edge of the pink triangle.

Clipping the claws is not painfulfor the cat

Begin dental care early

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AMVA) recommends twice-a-year dental care for your cats

Nutrition

Good nutrition may help toincrease a cat’s life expectancy

Royal Canin foods meet the specific needs of age, breed, lifestyle and sensitivities

A veterinarian can advise you on the appropriate diet for your cat if she has special needs

This Cat Care Guide contains excerpts from Everything you need to know about the role played by Nutrients in the health of Cats and Dogs, D. Grandjean, a comprehensive nutritional information book reviewing the necessary food elements required for the health nutrition of dogs and cats. The author, Professor Dominique Grandjean, is the director of the Sports and Breeding Medicine Unit at the National School of Veterinary Science in Alfort, France.

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The Science of NutritionYour cat’s health matters. At Royal Canin, we believe that it is our true knowledge of the cat that allows us to bring her a superior food. Each cat is an individual — whether because of her age, lifestyle, specific needs or breed — and therefore requires special nutrition in order to stay at peak health.

Advances in Our Understanding of Nutritional HealthBeyond providing the minimum required for the cat to stay alive, the concept of the complete diet was developed to provide the maintenance of a healthy, active lifestyle. Thanks to our increasing knowledge of how the cat’s body functions and to the study of the health benefits of individual nutrients (plant extracts, minerals, unique proteins, etc.), we have now moved on to the concept of nutrition, which is providing an optimal balance of nutrients to maximize the cat’s ability to utilize food for energy, cell growth, maintenance and defense against disease.

Superior NutritionOur research and knowledge has enabled us to provide the most precise nutritional answer for cats through the following:

• Formulas that take into account the cat’s lifestyle and her energetic needs with precision

• Highly palatable formulas

• High-quality ingredients selected with the utmost care

• Highly digestible formulas

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Feline nutritional needs vary according to age, condition, lifestyle, and even breed

Cow’s milk is not suitable for cats

10,000 years of evolution hasn’t changed these meat eaters into veggie lovers

Cats eat their food in small portions throughout the day

Do not feed your cat as you would feed yourself; human food is not an appropriate diet for a cat

Why Cats Are DifferentRoyal Canin has identified a cat’s nutritional needs not only according to age, but also according to lifestyle, sensitivity and even breed (Persians, Maine Coons, and Siamese, for instance). Thanks to constant new developments in scientific knowledge, the traditional concept of nutrition has been expanded to include preventative, and sometimes curative, properties.

People haven’t always known how to feed their cats correctly. We’ve come a long way since the cruel time when cats had to drink milk, which was never appropriate for these lactose-intolerant animals. But our cats face another threat: the anthropomorphist tendency. Anthropomorphism means projecting human characteristics (including our own eating preferences) onto our pets. However, the food we enjoy just isn’t appropriate to feed to our cats.

Our fondness for our cats can sometimes lead us to make poor nutritional choices on their behalf. Those foods that we consider treats may actually harm our feline companions.

Human beings are omnivorous, have a strong sense of taste, enjoy variety and attach a lot of attention to their food. It seems quite natural to think we are doing the right thing by giving our cat a diet close to ours.

Cats are carnivorous, have a weak sense of taste, and don’t require much variety in their diet. Nearly 10,000 years of domestication haven’t changed them into omnivores. A carnivore’s organs are very different from our own. A cat’s characteristics include:

• Jaws made for cutting and not chewing

• No pre-digestion with saliva

• Strong stomach acid to help digest prey swallowed whole

Originally very active, cats draw their energy from fat and have no so-called “cholesterol” problem, but if we don’t provide a suitable diet, cats can suffer from obesity (and its consequences involving the heart, joints and diabetes).

It is impossible to feed our cats adequately with the same food we eat. It won’t be cooked enough, it will be too rich in carbohydrates, and it will be ill-suited to their lifestyle and morphology. Our love for our cats must not involve forcing unnatural dietary behavior upon them.

Adult cats are lactose intolerant

Cats have fewer taste buds than dogs and people

Cats do not require much variety in their food


Digestion and Taste

Cat

Taste Buds Olfactory Cells

500

1,700

9,000

60 - 65 million

70 - 200 million

5- 20 million

Weight Ratio of Digestive System

2.8% - 3.5%

2.7% - 7%

10%

Dog

Man

She is fairly insensitiveto di�erent tastes.

She is very sensitiveto odors.

She has a lowdigestive capacity.

What this means for your cat:

While a newborn kitten has a digestive tract suited to the digestion of milk, her digestive capacities will evolve until she can no longer digest lactose (milk sugar). For proper growth, she must receive balanced quantities of proteins, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals and trace elements in the form of a type of food that suits the physiological and digestive characteristics of felines.

With 60 to 65 million olfactory cells, a cat’s sense of smell is acute, and she is very sensitive to odors, but her sense of taste is not so well developed. Fewer taste buds mean that a cat is less receptive to taste than to smell and texture. Due to the low awareness of different flavors, a cat does not require much variety in her food.

Optimal PalatabilityTo feed your cat correctly, you must first stimulate her appetite. It is the smell and texture of the food, rather than its taste, that makes her decide whether to eat.

We have paid special attention to the palatability of our food by exercising complete control over a range of factors, including:

• A formulation using rigorously selected ingredients

• Precisely designed kibble textures, shape and size

• Thoroughly developed flavors

• Perfect preservation

Because of our recognized expertise in palatability, the foods of the Feline Health Nutrition range make the difference with even the fussiest of cats.

Correct feline nutrition may aid in preventing disease, slowing degenerative processes and improving a cat’s quality of life

The terms “nutraceutical” and “health nutrition” are sometimes used to describe nutrients which are not essential to life, but which improve an animal’s well-being

Two ApproachesWe are specialists in the field of health nutrition and take into consideration the characteristics of cats requiring a tailored nutritional approach. Our passion for increased nutritional precision has led to collaborations with breeders, veterinarians and nutritionists. Our approach is supported by the knowledge and expertise of scientists around the world.

Our Nutritional ApproachChoosing a nutritional approach means combining in a single food a complex jigsaw of just the right amount of about fifty nutrients needed to satisfy the four nutritional objectives. Royal Canin uses this approach to develop different foods formulated specifically to meet the real needs of your cat.

The Ingredients ApproachThe ingredients approach consists of mixing together raw dietary materials to make a food with no consideration for a balanced nutritional content. This approach is less accurate and therefore less respectful of the cat’s needs.

Health Nutrition

The Four Objectives of Feline Nutrition

NutritionDevelopment and Maintenance Nutritional needs for the development and maintenance of the body require certain amino and fatty acids, minerals, vitamins and trace elements.

Energy Provision Cats are dependent on proteins, lipids and carbohydrates for their energy metabolism.

Nourishment and Prevention Some nutrients are added to the ration (antioxidants, prebiotics, fiber, essential fatty acids, etc.) to prevent the risk of kidney disease and digestive problems and to fight the effects of aging.

Nourishment and RecoveryCertain nutrients are added and others limited to support the therapeutic process and help cats recover from illness and a number of ailments.

Health Nutrition

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Feeding Guidelines

Growth is a delicate period affecting the well being and good health of the adult cat. Many factors influence growth, and good nutrition plays a major role.

Food for the kitten and for the adult cat must take into account specific digestive characteristics unique to felines. Only specially balanced foods are able to guarantee all the nutrients necessary for your cat’s well being, whatever her age, breed or level of activity.

Don’t OverfeedFollow the guidelines recommended on the bag, as this will help prevent problems of obesity. If you think your cat is over- or underweight, consult your veterinarian for specific feeding recommendations.

Avoid Table ScrapsFeeding table scraps must be avoided if you want to maintain a balanced diet. Your cat will identify your meals with her own food and will continually beg at the table during your meals or while you are preparing them. An unbalanced diet can also lead to obesity.

Transition Foods SlowlyAsk the person you obtained the cat from about his or her feeding methods (number of meals per day, rationed or ad lib) and types of meals. Any sudden change in the type of food may provoke digestive disorders (soft stools, diarrhea). A transitional period for changing from one food to another must be observed over one week by gradually mixing the new food with the old food until you are feeding the new food exclusively. This transition helps to minimize the risks of soft stools or diarrhea, which can be harmful to your cat’s proper development.

Make Sure Fresh Water Is Always Available Whatever type of food you give your cat, make sure she always has a bowl of fresh clean water.

Most importantly, allow your cat to eat in peace.

Feeding Guidelines for Cats Feeding your cat table scraps can

result in obesity

Transition slowly to new foods

Make sure your cat always hasaccess to fresh, clean water


Health Care

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The first visit to the veterinarian is not a simple consultation, but an in-depth examination. This complete health check-up will confirm the exact state of health of your new companion.

Check for the original health records with the shelter, rescue facility or individual you obtained your cat from. The adoption facility may give you useful advice on grooming and specific behaviors common to your newly adopted cat.

Ask your veterinarian if you need to bring in a stool sample or any paperwork from the purchase or adoption.

Important: It is wise to obtain a written document from the seller stating the purchase policy. This document could prove very helpful in the event your veterinarian should discover a pre-existing hidden or genetic defect.

Your Cat’s Health Care

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Obtain any papers availablefrom the adoption facility

The first vet visit is the time for vaccinations, if needed, and an in-depth exam.

Your vet can identify hiddenhealth problems

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Preventive MeasuresCare of Nose and EarsCleaning Your Cat’s NoseSome cats may have dry nasal secretions in the corner of the nostrils. You can easily remove these with a warm, wet cotton ball or tissue.

Important:A dry or runny nose indicates you should consult your vet.

Cleaning Your Cat’s EarsThe basic rule is to touch the ears as little as possible. If there is an obvious and unpleasant looking discharge, you need to consult your vet for a precise diagnosis. He will recommend the appropriate treatment and ear solution.

Important:When cleaning the ears, never use cotton swabs, nor a water- or alcohol-based solution.

Permanent IdentificationCats may be identified by the insertion of a tiny microchip under the skin. Identifying your cat will aid in finding her in the event she should get lost or be involved in a natural disaster. Qualified veterinarians can insert microchips, which contain information on both the cat and the owner.

Spaying or Neutering Your CatThese operations can be performed from the age of 6 months (and sometimes even earlier) and protect cats from many infectious diseases. Consult your vet for more information.

Consult a vet if your cat’snose is dry or runny

Touch the ears as little as possible

Microchips can prevent loss

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Vaccinations Vaccinations help prevent

the spread of contagious diseases

Depending on your cat’s environment and lifestyle, other vaccines may be recommended by your veterinarian

Vaccinations help prevent contagious and sometimes fatal diseases. Some are mandatory, while others are only recommended, and may vary according to the location, age, lifestyle and immune status of the cat. Vaccinations are most effective when they are given at fixed dates with booster vaccinations at specific times. The core feline vaccines include

• Feline panleukopenia virus (FPV)• Feline herpes virus (FHV-1)• Feline calicivirus (FCV)• Rabies virus (RV)

Depending on your cat’s environment and lifestyle, other vaccines may be recommended by your veterinarian.

Generally speaking, kittens are vaccinated with FPV, FHV-1 and FCV starting at eight to nine weeks of age. For optimal immunity, these vaccines should be administered at intervals of three to four weeks until kittens are 16 weeks old.

Any adult cat or kitten older than 16 weeks of age receiving an initial vaccination should be administered two doses of core vaccines at an interval of three to four weeks apart. Adult revaccination occurs one year after the end of the initial series, then follows the protocol recommended by your veterinarian.

Rabies virus vaccines are usually administered between 12 and 16 weeks of age as a single dose, with revaccination occurring one year later. Adult revaccination may be annually or every three years, depending on local and state statutes.

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Internal Parasite PreventionInternal parasites, such as worms and protozoa, can affect adult cats, especially if their immune systems are compro-mised. Your vet will advise you on deworming and necessary treatments.

ProtozoaOnly your vet can identify these parasites and prescribe the appropriate treatment. There are two micro-organisms which can infect cats:

GiardiaGiardia fix onto the mucous membrane of the small intestine, causing diarrhea, incomplete digestion, and a gradual loss of bodyweight.

CoccidiaCoccidia are also parasites of the digestive system.

WormsThree types of worms can be found in cats:

Round Worms These worms lodge in the cat’s small intestine, where they form balls and can cause intes-tinal obstructions. They can be detected by the presence of eggs in the cat’s stool or on anal areas, or on a microscopic stool exam.

Tape WormsTape worms fix onto the walls of the intestine and cause bloating, diarrhea, and sometimes damage to the coat. Their presence can be detected in the stool. They look like grains of rice.

Hook WormsHook worms attach to the lining of the intestinal wall and feed on the cat’s blood, lead-ing to blood loss. Some hook worms may even infect humans by penetrating the skin. Their presence can be detected in the stool, or microscopic examinations.

Internal parasites can affect adult cats

Only a vet can diagnose protozoa parasite infections

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External Parasite PreventionExternal parasites found most commonly on cats are fleas, ringworms, ear mites & ticks.

FleasThe prevention of fleas is a much easier task than treatment. Flea prevention involves using either oral or topical medications recommended by a veterinarian at regular intervals. Prevention should be all year long, but most importantly during the spring and summer months. Adult cats can be sensitive to many over-the-counter medications, some of which may be very harmful.

If your cat already has fleas, she, as well as her environment, may need to be treated in order to resolve the problem. Treatment of the environment includes vacuuming; treatment of the cat may include topical medications to kill fleas and oral medications to treat parasites the fleas can carry. Please seek veterinary advice for proper medications and other products for environ-mental care.

RingwormIn spite of the name, ringworm is not a worm, but a contagious fungal infection which affects the skin. Ringworm is difficult to diagnose because of the numerous signs it can induce. It is resistant, widely spread and contagious. Ringworm can affect humans and almost all animals.

Treatment is long and complex, and you should follow your vet’s advice carefully.

Ear MitesThis ear infection is caused by mites living in the ear canal. The presence of an abundant blackish and waxy discharge and the shaking of the head or rubbing with the paw are usually signs of ear mites. Treatment: follow your vet’s advice.

TicksTicks are picked up almost exclu-sively outdoors. If you have a cat that goes outside, check your cat regularly for ticks. They prefer to attach themselves around the neck and ears. Ticks can cause inflammatory reactions where they are attached. When removing a tick, be very careful to remove the tick’s head.

For advice on removal and prevention, please contact your veterinarian.

Flea prevention is easierthan treatment

Ringworm is a fungal infection

If your cat goes outside, check regularly for ticks

First Aid

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Even if you provide your cat with everything she needs — regular grooming and veterinary check-ups, an appropriate diet, lots of love and care — accidents can still happen. It’s important to be prepared for these situations. Knowing what to do may save your cat’s life. Read this section carefully and review it periodically. Keep this guide handy in the event of an emergency.

First Aid for Cats

Supplies for a CAT First-Aid Kit

Alcohol-based disinfectant

Antibiotic cream

Antiseptic solution

Bandaging materials: gauze pads and rolls, self-adhesive elastic wrap, tube socks for slipping over an injured paw

Calamine lotion

Cotton balls

Eye dropper

Extra blankets, towels and pillows

Hydrogen peroxide

Petroleum jelly

Rectal thermometer

Blunt end scissors

Towels

Transport crate

Tweezers

Checking Vital Signs • Use rectal, not oral,

thermometers for cats. Newer human digital thermometers are best.

• Heart rate can be checked by placing a hand over the cat’s chest.

• Respiration can be measured by observing the flanks or holding a wet finger in front of the nostrils.

• Measure both rates for 15 seconds, then multiply by four to get the rate per minute. Make sure the cat is in a calm, resting state to ensure normal rates.

Handling and Transporting • Don’t assume a cat won’t

bite or scratch.

• Don’t try to comfort an injured cat by hugging her. Don’t put your face near her head.

• Wrap cat in a towel.

• Perform any examinations slowly and gently. Stop if the cat becomes agitated.

Normal Vital SignsHeart rate: 160 – 240 beats/ minute

Respiration: 20 – 30 breaths/ minute

Temperature: 101° – 102.5° F

Abnormal temperatures: Below 100° F Above 103° F

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Possible causes: Excessive heat and/or lack of shade; overexertion; lack of water

Bee or Wasp Sting Heat Stroke1 Neutralize the sting.

Bee stings are acidic. Neutralize with baking soda.Wasp stings are alkaline. Neutralize with vinegar or lemon juice.

Apply cold pack.

Apply calamine or antihistamine cream.

In case of severe swelling or difficulty breathing, transport to clinic immediately.

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Bleeding1 Arterial bleeding requires

immediate veterinary attention.Arterial blood will be bright red, will bleed in spurts and will be difficult to stop.

Apply a clean cloth or sterile gauze to the wound.

Apply direct pressure for at least five to seven minutes to stop bleeding.

Don’t apply a tourniquet unless absolutely necessary.

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Possible causes: Foreign object (needle, bone, food, plant material) lodged in throat, esophagus or teeth; allergic reaction

Choking1 Gently pull the tongue

forward and inspect the mouth and throat.

If a foreign object is spotted, hold the mouth open and attempt to remove it by hand or with tweezers or a pair of small pliers. Take care not to push the object farther down the cat’s throat.

If cat is not breathing, start CPR. See CPR.

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1 Place in cool shaded area.

Immediately bathe cat with tepid water.Do not leave the cat unattended while soaking, even if conscious.

Monitor rectal temperature. When temperature drops to 103° F degrees, dry off the cat.

Transport to clinic.Continue to monitor temperature.

Do not allow animal to become excessively chilled.

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Emergency Action Steps


Possible causes: Broken limb or digit; acute arthritis; injury to footpad; dislocation; sprain; muscle soreness

Possible causes: Drowning; electrocution; trauma; drug ingestion

Limping Unconsciousness1 Attempt to localize injury

through gentle inspectionOnce localized, examine affected area to check for pain, heat, injury and swelling.

If a fracture is suspected, gently stabilize limb for transport. See Handling and Transporting Tips.

Cover any wounds with a clean cloth. See Bleeding.

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1 In case of drowning, clear the lungs of fluid. Lift cat’s hindquarters high over head and squeeze chest firmly until fluid stops draining.

In case of electrical shock, DO NOT touch the cat until she is no longer in contact with electricity source.

In case of airway obstruction, the object will need to be gently removed. See Choking.

If cat is not breathing, start CPR. See CPR.

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The following situations generally require veterinary attention. These action steps are designed to help you stabilize your pet while veterinary help is being obtained.

Possible causes: Poisoning; abdominal injury; motion sickness; disease; overeating; fear; brain injury; parasites

Vomiting1 Examine vomit for blood or

other clues as to cause.

Gently press on stomach to detect any abdominal pain.

Withhold all food and water until a veterinarian has been consulted.

If poisoning is suspected, bring a sample of the suspected poison, preferably in its original packaging, to the veterinarian. Abdominal pain, enlarged stomach and unproductive vomiting are serious signs. Call your veterinarian immediately.

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• Acetaminophen (Tylenol)• Antifreeze• Anticoagulants• Aspirin• Bleach• Boric Acid• Brake Fluid• Chocolate• Dandruff Shampoo• Deodorants• Deodorizers• Diet Pills• Disinfectants• Carburetor Cleaner• Drain Cleaner• Dry-Cleaning Fluid• Dye• Fire Extinguisher• Fungicides• Furniture Polish• Gasoline• Hair Coloring• Herbicides• Insecticides• Kerosene• Laxatives

• Lead • Lye• Phenol• Matches• Metal Polish• Mineral Spirits• Mothballs• Nail Polish and Remover• Foam• Paint• Paint Remover• Pills (Coumadin)• Rat Poison• At-Home Perm Solution• Photographic Developers• Pine-Oil Disinfectants• Rubbing Alcohol• De-Icers for Melting Snow• Shoe Polish• Sleeping Pills• Snail or Bug Bait• Suntan Oil

with Cocoa Butter• Tar • Turpentine• Windshield-Wiper fluid

Symptoms Common Poisonous Household Substances

Vomiting is commonly caused by the ingestion of harmful substances. There are many items that are known poisons to cats. Just like with children, make sure these items are locked up so your cat can’t get into them. For more information on poisonous substances, or for information about an item that isn’t listed here, please consult ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control at 1-800-548-2423 (fee charged for certain services).

Poisonous Substances

• Vomiting

• Diarrhea

• Difficulty breathing

• Abnormal urine (color, aroma or odor, frequency)

• Salivation

• WeaknessIf your cat should ingest something harmful, contact a veterinarian or poison control center immediately.


Upper G.I. Tract• Caladium• Calla Lily• Christmas Rose• Dumb Cane• Elephants Ear• Four O’clock• Jack-in-the-Pulpit• Philodendron• Skunk Cabbage

Cardiovascular System• Almond Pits• Apple Seeds• Apricot and Cherry Pits• Foxglove• Hydrangea• Larkspur• Lily-of-the-Valley• Monkshood• Oleander• Peach Pits• Yellow Oleander

Remove all indoor plants that are in reach of your cat, as many household plants are toxic to cats. A list of common harmful plants is below, or you can ask your vet for a complete list.

Toxic Plants

Lower G.I. Tract• Alfalfa• Amaryllis plant and bulbs• Beech• Bird of Paradise• Black Locust• Box• Castor Bean• Crown of Thorns• Daffodil plant and bulbs• Daphnia• English Ivy• Euonymus• Honeysuckle• Hyacinth plant and bulbs• Iris• Jerusalem Cherry• Nightshades

(including tomatoes)• Pencil Cactus• Poinsettia• Potato (green parts and eyes) • Precatory Bean (Rosary Pea)• Snow-on-the-Mountain• Spurge• Tulip plant and bulbs• Wisteria plant and bulbs

Nervous System• Belladonna• Bleeding Heart • Buckeye• Cardinal Flower• Chinaberry• Coriaria• Datura• Golden Chain• Henbane• Indian Tobacco• Jessamine• Jimson Weed• Marijuana• Mescal Bean• Moonseed• Morning Glory• Periwinkle• Poison Hemlock• Rhubarb• Tobacco• Yew, all varieties• Water Hemlock

Systems Affected by Toxic Plants

Daylily Easterlily Yew, all varieties

Highly Toxic, Possibly Fatal Toxic Plants


CPR for CatsLay the cat on her side and remove any obstructions in the airway. Open mouth, pull tongue forward, extend neck and sweep mouth with finger.

If the airway is clear, extend the neck, hold tongue out of mouth and close the cat’s jaws over her tongue.

Holding jaws closed, breathe into both nostrils for 5 to 6 breaths. If there is no response, continue artificial respiration (see below). If there is no pulse, begin cardiac compressions.

Depress the widest part of the chest wall 1.5 to 3 inches with one or both hands. Refer to compressions per minute chart for weight-specific info.

Continue artificial respiration. Refer to breaths per minute chart for weight-specific info.

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CPR is necessary if your cat is not breathing or has no pulse.

Possible causes: Choking, unconsciousness from drowning or shock, poisoning, allergic reaction

Weight Under 5 lbs.

5 – 10 lbs.

11 – 60 lbs.

Compressions per minutePlace hands around rib cage and apply cardiac massage 120 – 140 times per minute

80 – 100 times per minute

Weight Under 10 lbs.

11 – 60 lbs.

Breaths per minute30+ breaths per minute

16 – 20 breaths per minute

My Pet’s Information

EMERGENCY CARE GIVERS

Weight Chart

T h e f o l l o w i n g p e o p l e w i l l c a r e f o r m y c a t i n c a s e o f a n e m e r g e n c y .

Name

Number

Email

Name

Number

Email

Allergies

Special Medications

Special Conditions

Formula Name

Food Portions Cups/Grams Times Per Day

Provide Clean, Fresh Water At All Times.

MEDICAL INFORMATION

FEEDING INFORMATION

Change To Adult Food At Months.

Date Weight Date Weight Date Weight Date Weight

Cat’s Name:

Breed: Color: Sex:

Owner:

Address:

City: State: Zip:

Telephone:

Cat’s Birth Date: Date Acquired:

Where Acquired:

Veterinarian’s Name:

Veterinarian’s Phone:

Notes:

My Pet’s ImmunizationVaccinations and Health Exam DatesPet’s Information

Feline Leukemia Virus

Rhinotracheitis/Calicivirus/Panleukopenia

Feline Infectious Peritonitis

Rabies (1year)

Rabies (3year)

Chlamydia

Giardia

Deworming

Fecal Exam

Body Condition Score

Feline Body Mass Index

Other

Feline Immunode�ciencyVirus

Emergency Numbers

ASPCA® Animal Poison Control Center charges a fee for their services payable by credit card.

You’ll need this number if your clinic refers after hours cases

VETERINARY HOSPITAL

VETERINARIAN NAME AND NUMBER

AFTER-HOURS EMERGENCY CLINIC

ASPCA® ANIMAL POISON CONTROL CENTER

1-800-548-2423MEDICAL/ SURGICAL HISTORY

Date Pr ocedure

Royal Canin USA, Inc.• 500 Fountain Lakes Blvd., Suite 100 • St. Charles, MO 63301Consumer A airs: 1-800-592-6687 • www.royalcanin.us

Cat Care Guide

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