In addition to examining your cat regularly at home for early signs of illness, it's also a good idea to take him or her to the vet for an annual wellness check up. This can be crucial when it comes to detecting subtle changes in your pet's health, especially important for a species likely to hide illness until it becomes debilitating. If your cat is elderly or has special medical needs, you may need to see the vet more frequently.

Your vet will want to check:

• Vaccination status, making sure your cat's vaccinations are up to date for:
  • Feline flu.
  • Feline enteritis.
  • Feline leukaemia.
  • Feline Chlamydia.
  • Rabies (only if you are planning to travel).
• Your cat's weight and general body condition.
• Your cat's heart and respiratory rates.
• Parasite control.
  • Discuss the latest flea and tick control products, as flea pupae can live all year-round in your home. You should treat monthly with a product recommended by your vet.
  • Worming routine - every three months, again after veterinary recommendation.
• Behaviour and personality.
• Dental care. It may be time for dental cleaning, carried out under anaesthesia.