Siamese cats are a steady source of joy and happiness in our lives. The most important thing to us as cat owners is keeping our furry pals with us as long as possible. Like we do with everything we cherish, we love keeping our furry pals with us for as long as possible. Checking your Siamese cat’s health is like monitoring a child’s nutrition. How do we keep our Siamese cats healthy?
It will take lots of patience, learning time, and careful work. However, it’s sure to benefit your cat’s well-being.
Here are the top secrets to keeping your Siamese cat healthy:
1. Only feed your Siamese cat high-quality food.
It’s easy and fun to pick the lowest price tag when buying cat foods. Cheap and low-quality foods have many extra flavors and supplements. You may be choosing low-quality cat food because your cat enjoys it more. After all, it looks like it tastes better to them.
While your cat may find this food more delicious, it won’t benefit your furry pal’s health. It’s recommended only to feed your Siamese cat high-quality food.
What to remember:
1. Your cat can get several health issues and illnesses from low-quality diets. Low-quality cat foods contain additives and preservatives that can harm your cat’s health.
2. Poor-quality canned food can cause diabetes and severe diarrhea.
3. Overeating dry food can lead to urinary infections.
4. Eating a lot of grains can increase the risk of obesity. Your cat’s body is not ready to process a lot of grains. Grains are the least expensive ingredient in cat food. Consuming too much of it can cause allergies in your cat.
What to do:
1. Pick cat food with a high value of meat protein. Your cat needs beef, chicken, and tuna protein to build a strong body.
While it can be hard to find cat food with no additives, some brands are better and healthier than some. Pick a pair with a high value of real meat and fish. These brands have higher percentages of “good” ingredients than grains, sugars, and additives.
2. Check for the percentage of grains in the food. Avoid brands with too many grains in them.
3. Confirm if the cat food contains vitamins A, B, B12, and C before buying.
4. Check whether the cat food contains high-quality taurine and arachidonic acid. Taurine and arachidonic acid are essential for your cat’s health.
5. Choose cat food that contains calcium and magnesium. Your cat’s bones, joints, and teeth need calcium and magnesium.
When feeding dry foods:
Dry cat food seldom has any water in it. Most of the time, the preparation of dry food is baking or roasting only. If you’re going to feed your cat dry foods, pour some water over the food.
I add lukewarm water to the dry food to provide more opportunities for hydration. When I pour lukewarm water on the food, it gives off a good smell that makes Batman and Robyn come over. They love it!
When feeding canned wet foods:
Pick canned wet food packed with real meat. Grain content is high in some canned foods. Be strict in checking the labels and ingredients if you feed your cat canned wet foods.
The recommended canned wet foods are high in protein and low in grains and carbohydrates. Your cat will like the way it tastes, and you will like how healthy it can be for your cat.
Choose canned foods approved by the American Association of Feed Control Officials. Look for a label that says “Complete and Balanced.”
When buying foods for your Siamese cat:
Always read the labels before deciding what to choose. You can ask your vet for brand recommendations.
Good health is crucial for your Siamese cat’s survival. To keep your Siamese cat healthy, take good care of the foods your furry pal eats. As a cat owner, you need to keep an eye on your cat’s diet, like parents overseeing what their kids eat.
2. Maintain superior dental care for your Siamese cat.
Our feline pals’ dental health should be on top of our list if we want to keep our Siamese cat healthy. As a cat owner, I’m sure you already know how important it is to care for your cat’s teeth. Good for you if you’re keeping up with your cat’s preventive dental care routines. You’re doing a great job!
If you’re still figuring out how to take care of your cat’s teeth, don’t worry! I’d be happy to share some tips with you.
What to remember:
1. Human dental products are unsuitable for your Siamese cat. Human toothbrushes are too big for your cat’s teeth and may cause bleeding and gingivitis. Human toothpaste contains artificial flavors, xylitol, and fluoride, which can be toxic. Added fluoride can irritate your cat’s stomach.
2. Start with brushing the upper canine teeth, as these are the most accessible spots to get.
3. Don’t brush too hard. When used, most toothpaste already supports the physical action of the cleaning process.
4. Don’t forget the back teeth. They are where gum diseases happen most often.
4. Minty fresh flavors for dental gels may not be the best option for your cat. It gives them an unpleasant feeling while eating treats.
5. While dental treats are rewarding and sweet for your cat, many of these are high in fat and calories. Too many dental treats may lead to obesity and other health issues.
What to do:
1. Choose a sturdy toothbrush with a bristle size suitable for your cat’s mouth and teeth. You can also choose a toothbrush with natural fibers if you want your kitty to avoid chewing on the bristles.
2. Use toothpaste formulated for cats. Most Siamese cats love the cheese, malt, sausage, and fish flavors.
Batman loves the sausage flavor. Robyn likes both the cheese and salmon flavors. Giving them their favorite flavors helps me manage their brushing time easier.
3. Apply formulated gels. These gels can help your Siamese cat avoid plaque and tartar build-up.
4. Use dental toys with natural fibers to encourage good chewing behaviors. These toys have net-like materials, the same as human dental floss. If the toy gets broken, hide it from your cat, as it may cause bleeding on the gums.
5. Take your Siamese cat to the vet for a professional dental cleaning. You can do it once a year. Nooks and crannies in your cat’s teeth need rigorous cleaning. Your vet can inspect for any signs of gum disease. Most vets cost at least $180 for your cat’s teeth cleaning.
Your Siamese cat needs teeth cleaning to stay healthy. Dental care is necessary for your kitty not to get cavities. It can prevent other related health problems. If Siamese cats have poor dental health, they may develop gum disease.
Gum disease can contribute to illnesses like heart disease and organ failure.
3. Give your Siamese cat a puzzle feeder to enjoy.
A puzzle feeder is a pet device your cat needs to manipulate to access the treats or foods inside it. The puzzle feeder can help your cat get healthier and fit with patience and effort. Teaching your Siamese cat how to use the puzzle feeder takes time.
Puzzle feeders have provided lots of benefits to my furry children. I got Batman and Robyn mobile puzzle feeders. They love it! One is in the shape of a box, and the other is a tube. Both have several openings via which food can be accessed.
What to remember:
1. Consider first what food your Siamese cat prefers. A stationary puzzle feeder is the best if your cat loves wet food. A mobile puzzle feeder is perfect if your cat loves dry food.
2. Observe how your Siamese cat plays with toys. The stationary or mobile feeder are good choices if your cat plays with toys with his paws. A mobile feeder is suitable if your cat plays with his nose.
3. You can come up with a DIY puzzle feeder if you’re on a limited budget. There are how-to tutorials available on Pinterest to start creating one.
What to do:
1. Introduce the puzzle feeder little by little. While your cat learns how to use it, continue offering food in the bowl.
2. Adjust the puzzle to ensure your cat has a fun experience with it.
Puzzle feeders help Siamese cats keep their minds and bodies active. They are more intelligent than we could ever imagine. Their type loves challenges!
4. Learn which foods you should not feed your Siamese cat.
Sharing some food you like with your cat may be tempting, but it should be given some serious thought first. Siamese cats can’t eat certain foods. Know which foods are good or harmful for your Siamese cat.
What to remember:
1. Not all human foods are safe treats for your Siamese cat.
2. You’re not the only one who may offer food to your Siamese cat. Make sure all household members also know what food not to offer your pet.
Whenever I have visitors at home, I inform them ahead of time what foods to avoid giving to Batman and Robyn.
What to do:
1. Keep human foods out of your Siamese cat’s reach. Don’t forget about the garbage bins!
2. Don’t offer your Siamese cat unhealthy treats. Don’t give your cat chocolate, raisins, grapes, onions, garlic, or citrus fruits. There are more. You should learn about them for your cat’s health.
3. Never feed your Siamese cat leftovers from breakfast or dinner.
Along with knowing what foods are excellent for your cat, you must know what foods are harmful. It will help them avoid food poisoning and other health issues.
5. Keep your Siamese cat’s fur clean by brushing it.
Brushing a cat’s hair can have two different outcomes. One is triumphant while the other is horrifying! Follow the proper ways as you brush your cat once a week so you’ll get to the success story,
Brushing your cat prevents hairballs. If you often see loose fur off your cat, your cat may ingest hairballs, which can harm their stomach in the long run.
What to remember:
1. Your cat loses more and more fur if it is not cared for well enough.
2. Not all cats hate it when you brush them. They will love and enjoy the feeling and process if you do it right and with great care.
What to do:
1. Brush your Siamese cat at least once a week.
2. Put a white towel under your cat when brushing. Whenever I brush my Siamese cats, I place a clean white towel under them. It helps me spot the ticks, fleas, and other bugs easier.
2. Don’t wait for matted fur. Keep doing the brushing routine. What’s supposed to look sleek should stay sleek and not tangled up or full of knots. Tangles may pull on your cat’s skin and cause irritation.
Take good care of your cat’s fur. It helps Siamese cats look and feel healthier.
Brushing helps you spot ticks, fleas, dandruff, and bald patches. It is like skincare for your cat.
6. Bathe your Siamese cat.
Bathing your Siamese cat helps him maintain a healthy lifestyle. A healthy coat now means a healthy life later.
There sure are cats who dislike soaking in water. However, many Siamese cats enjoy playing with water.
I had a Siamese cat who always stayed at the door giving loud meows, hoping I’d let him in the shower. She loved dipping her paws in the water.
What to remember:
1. How often your cat needs a bath depends on how much time it spends playing outside.
2. Bathing your Siamese cat helps keep fleas and ticks away.
3. No need to force your Siamese cat for bath time if your pal feels scared. Their growling and crying mean you should try another time again.
What to do:
1. Wash your short hair Siamese cat every 2-3 months.
2. Wash your long hair Siamese cat once a month.
3. Do not rush pouring water on your cat. Be careful with the bathing process, so your cat will accept it and forgive you for the intrusion.
4. Use a shampoo formulated for cats. Do not use human shampoo. It’s too strong for your cat’s fur.
5. Prepare a towel to wrap your Siamese cat up after bathing. Never leave your cat wet because it may lead to sickness.
Most Siamese cats aren’t terrified of water, which gives you an advantage. If you make bathing time more fun, they may like bath time more.
7. Maintain a regular deworming schedule for your Siamese cat.
Worms are likely to invade our fur babies, no matter how well you treat them. Many cat owners don’t get their pets dewormed. They think their pets are worm-free because they have tidy homes.
If your kitten has worms, there’s a high chance of growth delay.
Some worms affect your cat’s immune system and cause severe damage to his heart and stomach.
What to remember:
Your cat can harbor several types of worms. Some worms can be deadly. These worms include:
What to do:
1. Ask your vet about routine deworming.
2. Know and note when the best times are to deworm your kitten or adult cat.
3. Only use deworming medication recommended by your vet.
4. Attend the follow-up treatment or medication to ensure the worms are gone.
Most deworming medications are effective in getting rid of worms. Deworming your Siamese cat ensures your furry baby is disease-free and healthy.
I wrote an article about deworming Siamese cats. Check it out here: Siamese Cat Deworming: A Complete Guide.
8. Make sure your Siamese cat’s vaccines are up to date.
Knowing and understanding the details about your cat’s vaccinations is crucial. Feline vaccinations have advantages and possible drawbacks, but they are often unclear.
Many vaccine myths still influence well-intentioned cat owners. Few owners make misinformed decisions about their cat’s health maintenance because of this. You can always consult your veterinarian if you need any clarifications.
What to remember:
1. No vaccine is 100 percent effective. However, vaccines can protect all cats by making disease transmission near impossible.
2. Vaccine effectiveness varies. Many factors can come into play.
What to do:
1. Determine which feline vaccines are necessary. Know what vaccines are optional for your kitten or adult cat.
The American Association of Feline Practitioners recommends indoor cats should receive vaccines for:
Your vet may recommend extra vaccines. It depends on your cat’s age and lifestyle. Reassess your cat’s vaccine history and health status before deciding on further vaccines. Non-core vaccines could include:
2. Attend all your Siamese cat’s vaccination appointments.
Vaccines are an essential part of routine care for your feline. Cornell Feline Health Center says the benefits of vaccination far outweigh the risks. I follow my cats’ vaccination schedules. I trust it can help protect them from several serious diseases.
9. Create a safe space for your Siamese cat.
Give your cat a safe spot to rest and retreat. Siamese cats have a strong instinct to hide to feel safe and relaxed. They are less likely to get stressed when they always have a spot to access whenever they want,
What to remember:
1. Your pal might throw up due to stress when he has no safe space. Your cat may damage your furniture or retreat into isolation. A safe space can help your cat sidestep behavioral problems.
2. A safe space can help your cat manage anxiety and stress.
What to do:
1. Make some of your home’s high areas accessible to your cat. Provide tall shelves that they can climb up.
2. Put a cushion or box on top of your wardrobe.
The wardrobe top is Batman and Robyn’s favorite cozy/spying spot.
3. Place a cardboard box under a table. Put a blanket inside the box to make your cat feel more comfortable.
4. Make a hole in the front so your cat can feel more comfortable eyeing what’s happening around.
10. Be sure your Siamese cat’s litter box is clean daily.
Taking care of litter boxes isn’t always a piece of cake. Cleaning them can be a lot of work. As diligent cat parents, even though scooping poop isn’t our thing, we do it for our cats’ sake and wellness.
What to remember:
1. Don’t be afraid to try a few options for cleaning your cat’s litter box. You’ll find the best way to clean it easier and faster in the long run.
What to do:
1. Scoop daily. This routine is necessary for your cat’s kidney and urinary health.
2. Switch to metal scoops if you’re tired of litter getting caught on the scoop. Metal scoops are more durable than plastic scoops.
I don’t regret switching to metal scoops at all. Cleaning my cats’ litter boxes is much easier now.
3. Use cleaning wipes if you want a low-mess option for cleaning a litter box. With the wipes, you may now rinse your litter box 3-4 times a week. You won’t need to rinse and use a sponge daily when cleaning.
4. If scooping each day seems too big of a chore, buy a self-cleaning litter box. Yup, there’s a robot for that kind of task. A self-cleaning litter box separates the cat’s poop from the clean litter. Your kitty will have a new place to go every time.
A clean litter box encourages your furry pal to have healthy pooping habits. Healthy poop schedules mean your furry feline has good digestive health. It’s essential to keep your cat’s litter box clean if you want your cat to stay healthy.
11. Take precautions to prevent your Siamese cat from becoming obese.
Siamese cats are prone to obesity. Their slim build makes it easy for them to put on extra weight. Did you know that unhealthy excess weight can lower your Siamese cat’s quality of life? Yes, you heard me! Extra pounds can lead to a shorter lifespan.
To keep your cat healthy, ensure your furry pal is not overweight.
What to remember:
1. Extra weight can be harmful to your Siamese cat’s health. Your cat may face any of these health problems due to obesity.
2. Get your cat to play during the day using toys.
Batman loves pushing his toy mice around the house. It’s a lot of fun to see.
Robyn loves to play with the colorful string I put near the living room. It’s pretty funny! He keeps turning along with the string.
3. Regular weigh-ins help track weight change in your cat. It’s hard to recognize weight changes in your cat by a mere look.
What to do:
1. Request feeding recommendations from your vet. You’ll get reliable advice on how to ensure your cat is not overfed and still gets enough nutrition.
2. Cut back on treats. Treats are fun. However, they are not always healthy for your cat.
3. Remove any leftovers so your cat doesn’t eat them.
4. Never deprive your Siamese cat of food. Choose smaller meals rather than no meals for the day.
5. Divide your cat’s regular meal into smaller portions before feeding. Small, frequent meals will benefit your Siamese cat.
Frequent mealtimes should not mean more food. The best approach is to divide up proper portions.
12. Do health checks at home.
Your vet is the only one who can do a proper clinical exam on your cat, but If you know how your cat usually acts, you’ll be able to spot early signs of illness.
What to remember:
You are your Siamese cat’s primary caretaker at home. Always check whether your furry baby is feeling well or sick.
What to do:
1. Two days without eating food? Take your cat to the vet. Loss of appetite indicates digestive issues or another condition.
2. Seek immediate vet care if your cat drinks more than usual. It could be a hint of diabetes or kidney damage.
3. Siamese cats can sometimes be sluggish, but prolonged laziness or lethargy may indicate a health condition. Talk to your vet after observing your cat’s behavior and inactivity.
4. A bland diet may sometimes cause your cat to have diarrhea. If your pet’s diarrhea lasts more than two days, your furry pal needs an immediate vet check-up.
13. Install a cat patio for your Siamese cat.
Cat patios are popular among many cat owners. Who doesn’t love giving their furry baby the best of both worlds, right? Your Siamese cat can explore the outdoor safe and sound with a catio. A catio can help enrich your cat’s life. In turn, contribute to your cat’s improved health.
What to remember:
1. There are many types of catios. Choose a design that complements your Siamese cat’s personality and playfulness.
2. Cats are territorial by nature. Your cat can share indoor space with another pet, but your furry pal still wants and needs alone time. A cat patio can help lessen conflicts if you have many pets.
What to do:
1. Determine what type of catio you’d want for your Siamese cat.
2. Make sure the catio’s size and placement fit your cat’s needs and activities.
3. Decide if you want pre-designed or custom built.
Your Siamese cat needs space and stimulation. A catio is a good outlet for your pal to relax and play. A catio can protect your cat so it can live a long, healthy life with you.
14. Get your Siamese cat spayed or neutered.
Your Siamese cat will have a longer and healthier life if you get it spayed or neutered. Spaying your cat reduces the risk of mammary and cervical cancer. Neutering your cat reduces the chances of getting lethal diseases from other cats.
What to remember:
1. Your cat’s vet will tell you at what age your cat needs neutering.
2. Most vets prefer to neuter a cat around adulthood.
3. Your cat’s personality will not change after neutering. Your cat will still be the playful and intelligent cat you’ve always known.
What to do:
1. Talk to your vet and ask for any preparations you can do before neutering your cat.
2. After neutering, bring your cat to the vet for particular medication or aftercare.
3. Feed your cat right after neutering.
Neutering your Siamese cat can reduce wanderlust and stop your cat from wanting to run away. Your cat will always be happy to stay inside.
15. Offer your Siamese cat the luxury of a window perch.
A window perch can help cats improve their mental and physical health. Your cat will stay active daily because of climbing and jumping.
What to remember:
1. Cat window perches come in various designs. If you want the safest one, choose the pod-type. It has enclosed sides. If you have a large cat, an open-pod type is best.
2. Your cat’s comfort is much more important than the design.
What to do:
1. Choose a size that is big enough to fit your cat well. Consider your cat’s future size and weight too.
2. Know if your windows at home can hold the cat window perch you’re planning to buy.
A little sunlight from the window can help keep your cat comfortable and healthy. A cat window perch can make your Siamese cat feel warm while basking in the sun.
Continue reading to discover more suggestions for keeping your Siamese cat healthy.
16. Get an interactive laser toy for your Siamese cat.
Interactive laser toys help your cat stay active. Before you buy one, check the brand. I use the PetSafe Bolt laser toy. Batman and Robyn love to chase and pounce at the fun laser patterns.
Your cat will enjoy following the patterns. Give your cat short breaks between sessions of chasing. Interactive lasers make even the laziest of cats chase after it.
17. Give your Siamese cat mouse-shaped toys.
Siamese cats are well-known for their exceptional ability to catch mice. Find toys that will encourage your Siamese cat to do so.
I got Batman many mouse-shaped toys because he loves them. Batman never gets tired of playing with the toys.
You can select other toys your cat wants, as long as they keep your cat active and moving around. Toys are an excellent means for your Siamese cat to get some exercise.
18. Don’t disturb your sleeping cat.
Allow enough time for your cat to sleep. Your cat needs to sleep on and off throughout the day. It is in your cat’s nature.
Adequate sleep is essential for your cat’s health, as it is for ours. Even though touching or shaking your pal can be tempting, don’t wake your cat up. Your cat might be cranky or lethargic for the rest of the day.
19. Clean your Siamese cat’s paws.
Sticky or dirty things can get stuck to the paws of your Siamese cat. To clean your cat’s paws, use a damp cloth. If your cat stepped on something gross, soak your cat’s paws in a big bowl of warm water for a while. Worms are less likely to get into your Siamese cat if you clean the paws.
20. Understand your Siamese cat’s meow.
Find out what your Siamese cat wants to tell you. You’ll get a good idea of how your cat feels. Understanding your cat’s meow and vocalizations can help you know your cat’s needs. You can tell whether your furry pal is sick if you understand your cat’s meows.
21. Avoid air fresheners for your Siamese cat’s safety.
Air fresheners are harmful to your cat’s health. The strong scent isn’t the only issue. Not all air fresheners are suitable for use in the presence of cats. Some air fresheners are toxic and should not be present in households with cats.
Your Siamese cat can get feline asthma if air fresheners and incense are all over the house. An air purifier, not a freshener, is the best way to keep the air in your home clean.
22. Always keep your Siamese cat indoors.
I know this is the most overused suggestion. It is the most common piece of advice and is worth repeating repeatedly. Your cat’s health will be greatly benefited if it’s kept indoors.
Many individuals believe that keeping a cat indoors is cruel or unnatural. Some believe it’s okay to leave your cat outside during the day.
The truth is, there’s no way to guarantee your cat’s safety outside.
Compared to outdoor cats, indoor cats are much more likely to live longer and healthier lives.
24. Don’t change your Siamese cat’s daily routine without a proper introduction.
Siamese cats don’t adjust to routine fast. Most cats can have their routines adjusted with no issue, but Siamese cats love doing things in the routine they already know.
Whenever you introduce changes to Siamese cats, introduce them little by little. A gradual introduction is necessary to prevent anxiety and despair in your cat.
Here are a few extra pointers on how to keep your Siamese cat in good shape.
25. Offer good scratching posts to your Siamese cat.
Add several posts throughout the house to provide your Siamese cat with options.
26. Use specialized cat clippers.
You can get a pair at a pet store or retailer. Do not use nail clippers made for people.
27. Have fun playing hide-and-seek, peek-a-boo, or chase.
Allot 10–15 minutes of your day to play with your cat. Playing games together can be a fun way for the two of you to get some exercise.
28. Use a cat carrier if you take your cat with you on travels.
Not having a place to stay still in a moving vehicle can trouble your cat, leading to stress and sickness.
29. Reward your Siamese cat’s affections by giving extra snuggles. It’s good for your kitty’s health!
To Wrap It All Up
Keep an eye on your Siamese cat’s health! I hope this article has shown the importance of following good habits to keep your cat healthy. Always take the time to do a careful and detailed health check on your furry feline at home and when you go to the vet.
We gathered all the health tips tailored towards maintaining your Siamese cat’s optimal well-being. Check it out here: Siamese Cat Health: A Complete Guide
