Tips and advice for cat owners

Health and veterinary care, for out-and indoor cats 

• Castration/spaying 
  If you own an outdoor cat you have got to have it castrated/spayed. It reduces the risk for undesired kittens/uncontrolled breeding, fights, diseases and prevents the cat from taking long walk abouts. If you own a lot of indoor cats it is preferable that they also are castrated/spayed if it isn’t possible to keep them separated to avoid uncontrolled breeding. You don´t have to castrate/spay indoors cats used for controlled breeding. 

• Vaccinations 
  Core vaccinantions (feline panleukopenia, feline upper respiratory infection) is very important when you own an outdoor cat. 

• Cat deworming & ticks 
  An outdoor cat needs to be dewormed regularly. Ticks are common from early spring to autumn – use a medication against ticks suitable for cats. 

Weather & seasons 

• Winter 
  Cold weather, ice, and snow increase the risk of frostbite and traffic accidents. Many people choose to keep their cats indoors during the winter.  

• Shelter & routines. Make sure that the cat can get shelter or keep it indoors during the night. 

Nature & environment 

• Hunting small animals 
  Cats effect birds and other small animals. As an example can a bell on the neck reduces the cats hunting luck. 

• Neighbors. Make sure the cat does not cause problems to your neighbors (sandboxes, garden). A good relationship with neighbors is important. Do not feed other cats, just your own. 

You must report to the welfare veterinarian if you notice wild cats close to your property. You can make the report online: https://en.korsholm.fi/housing-and-environment/west-coast-environmental-unit/veterinary-care/animal-welfare You find contact details there too.  

Nature and the cats will thank you!