By: Paul Hegarty
Caring for a cat or kitten begins with a knowledge of basic first aid. This will be very useful especially in emergency situations. If you have a nearby vet clinic that offers first aid training you are doing both yourself and your cat a service by enrolling.
Knowing what to do in an emergency situation will keep you calm so that you can help your cat in an efficient and effective manner. You may be able to limit your cats injuries or help save its life.
Below is a list of first-aid items to help care for your cat when those emergencies may arise.:
• Antiseptic lotion - for cleaning wounds
• Antiseptic wound powder - to treat wounds and promote healing
• Cotton balls - to clean wounds and bathe eyes
• Cotton swabs -to clean wounds and apply ointments
• Pair of scissors with blunt tips and curved blades - to cut dressings to size and for clipping fur around wounds
• Antihistamine -to ease insect bites and stings
• Blunt-tipped tweezers -to remove insect stingers and ticks
• Thermometer -for checking temperature
• Petroleum jelly -apply to thermometer before inserting
• Nonstick dressings and bandages - for bandaging cuts and to keep dressings in place
• Surgical gloves -use when treating wounds
• Heavy-duty gloves -to protect yourself when restraining your cat
• Towel -to restrain your cat
These first-aid items can be bought from a local drugstore, your vet or a pet store. Having a home first-aid kit will enable you to treat minor injuries and keeps you prepared for an emergency. Knowing your cats personality and habits will help you detect any changes in demeanor and behavior, which may be signs that he or she is feeling sick.
If your cats eating habits change this can also suggest that it is sick and a veterinarian checkup is recommended. Caring for your cat or kitten is easier when you are prepared.
