Resources

Discover how to make a trip to the vets less stressful for your cat by checking out this comprehensive guide:

ISFM guide on how to take your cat to the vet clinic

We also highly recommend introducing cat carrier training to your cat.
This training will prevent them from hiding behind the sofa or going AWOL every time you pick up the carrier box!
It is a simple yet rewarding process.
Check out Cat Carrier Training videos here: Cat Carrier Training , if you have any questions – please don’t hesitate to ask us!

Administering medication to your pet can be challenging initially, but with the right training and positive approach, it’s entirely achievable! Check out some valuable tips and tricks below to make the process easier:

We understand that some situations may require personalized guidance. If you feel you need ‘hands-on’ training, don’t hesitate to book an appointment with one of our skilled nurses! They’ll be more than happy to assist you.

If your cat has been prescribed an inhaler, please follow this link for Inhaler training

We understand that inhaler training may require time and effort, so rest assured, our team of trained nurses is always here to support you throughout the process!

Have them regularly checked. Cats are sadly prone to dental disease. We recommend having your cat’s teeth checked every 6 months – either by a vet or a nurse.

Regular brushing. Contrary to popular belief, food (apart from certain types – see below) does not keep your cat’s teeth healthy. According to evidence, only regular mechanical removal of the bacteria that accumulate naturally on your cat’s teeth will prevent periodontal disease from developing. This can be achieved at home through tooth brushing, much like in humans!

It is entirely possible to train your cat to accept toothbrushing or wiping. It takes some time and effort though, and a lot of treats (or other forms of positive reinforcement!)

Top tips:

• Completing each step can take a few days, or even weeks. Do not try to complete it all at once.
• Make it enjoyable for your cat. Always reward them at the end of the session with their favourite treat or a toy.
• If your cat doesn’t accept a tooth brush, you can use a paper towel or a gauze wrapped around your finger.
• Use cat-friendly, flavoured products. Avoid mint flavoured dog products – cats hate it!
• Don’t hesitate to ask our nurses if you need help in training. We’re here to assist you!

If your cat is resistant to training, there are a few alternatives (although not as effective as mechanical brushing):

Dental diets – look for diets with VOHC seal of approval. This seal indicates that these diets were clinically proven to be effective. Examples include Hills t/d Dental Care, Hills Science Plan Oral Care, Purina Pro Plan DH Feline Formula and Royal Canin Feline Dental diet; full list can be found here

Food additives – ProDen PlaqueOff

Treats – Feline Greenies Dental

Helpful links:

iCatCare – How to brush your cat’s teeth

4-week training program – cat toothbrushing – VIDEO

Please follow these links for excellent advice on creating a cat-friendly home:

• Cat Owner Starter Pack
• Caring for indoor-only cats

Litter trays ABC

• iCatCare advice on litter trays
• Cats Protection advice on litter trays:

Follow the links for more information:

• Intercat tension. Living with multiple cats can be rewarding, but it also comes with challenges, such as intercat tension. Recognizing and addressing this tension is crucial for maintaining the health and happiness of your cats.
  • How to recognise intercat tension 
  • Step by step guide – how to introduce new cat to other cats in your household
  • Behavior modification, which can help cats learn more relaxed and desirable behaviors.

At Graylands Cat Clinic we take a pro-active approach in caring for your cat’s health, by recognising and prioritising different needs at different stages of your cat’s life. That means that care we provide is individually tailored to your cat’s age, lifestyle and needs.

For comprehensive information about your cat’s various needs at different stages of life, please visit this link

We particularly recommend exploring the option at the bottom of the page, where specific needs are described for each life stage.

If you’re a kitten owner, we have a separate document that focuses solely on kitten needs – we strongly recommend all kitten owners to read it. You can access it here: Kitten booklet

Neutering
We strongly recommend neutering all kittens. For more information on why it’s important, please visit this link 

Microchipping

Microchipping kittens is vital – it’s their ticket home if lost. Quick, painless, and ensures a lifetime of safety. Also please note, that from 2024, it is a legal requirement to have your kitten microchipped before they reach 20 weeks of age.

Insurance

Cat insurance is essential. We highly recommend comprehensive coverage from early age. Please make sure that the policy you choose covers dental conditions, as up to 80% of cats need dental procedure at some point of their lives!

Graylands Health Plan

We offer various plans tailored to your cat’s lifestyle and age. The Graylands Health Plan is designed to help you spread the cost of preventative health care throughout the year. You can find more information here.

Flea and worming treatment

Your kitten’s well-being is our priority. The right flea and worming products and schedule depend on their unique lifestyle and risks. Consult our vets for a personalized plan to keep your feline friend healthy and happy.

Select your cat’s lifestage to read CatCareForLife advice

There will be a time when we all have to say goodbye to our beloved pets. In such a trying time, the dedicated team at Graylands Cat Clinic team is committed to providing assistance and support. Please contact us if you need any assistance or would like to discuss your cat’s well-being. We offer Quality of Life consultations with our compassionate nursing team. Numerous charities offer information, support and various ways to help you cope with the loss of your cat.

Support for grieving owners:

Blue Cross free and confidential Pet Loss Support

Cats Protection grief and loss advice and support

How to support grieving cat:

When a person or animal in the home passes away, a surviving cat may show signs that could be interpreted as grief. Follow this link to find out more about cat grief.