Cats health Cats are hardy animals but require a few precautions to ensure they remain healthy. When you purchase your cat ask for its vaccination certificate which will be signed by a veterinarian. If your cat or kitten has had no previous vaccinations or if you are unsure whether it has been vaccinated, you should take it to your local veterinarian to receive a health check and vaccinations for feline enteritis, cat flu and Feline Leukemia Virus. Kittens require the first vaccinations between 6 - 9 weeks with the second at 12 - 16 weeks old. All cats require a "booster" vaccination every 12 months. Cats and kittens need to be wormed regularly to control roundworms, hookworms and tapeworms which live in the intestine. This is easily done by using one of the many available preparations, either as tablets, liquids or pastes. Fleas and ticks are often a problem during the warmer months. Attempts must be made to kill not only the adult fleas on the cat using either sprays, powders, rinses or flea collars, but also to treat any other pets and the environment, especially the cat's bedding. Cats can be particularly sensitive to flea control products and precautions and directions on the packaging of flea control products must be followed exactly. Only use products which are specifically designed for cats. Paralysis ticks occur in some areas of Australia and can be fatal to cats. If you live in an area where there are paralysis ticks you should check your cat daily and remove any ticks. If a tick is found consult your veterinarian. Abscesses are common in cats due to fighting and can show up as a swelling or discharging sore anywhere on the cat. Veterinary attention is required for abscesses. Cats should be prevented from chewing plants as many common garden or indoor plants are poisonous. Aspirin and paracetamol are also poisonous to cats. Consult your veterinarian if you are concerned. Dental hygiene Clean teeth are important for healthy gums and a fresh breath. Some cats' teeth need more attention than others. Ask your veterinarian for the best approach for your cat. It may be a regular check up and cleaning or feeding raw chicken wings or necks.