Holly House vets appealing to cat owners for a free check up (From Knutsford Guardian)

Holly House vets appealing to cat owners for a free check up

8:20am Saturday 6th February 2010

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CAT lovers are being urged to be brave and bring their old-age felines for a free check up at the vets.

Ian Hopkins, branch manager at Holly House Veterinary Centre, is appealing to owners of older cats to dodge flying claws and get their pet in a carrier to bring it in for a once over.

He said: “We want to encourage infrequent users to bring their cat in to make sure everything’s hopefully ok, and if there are any problems we can address them.

“Regular clients are also more than welcome if they want added peace of mind.

“It can be very difficult getting your cat to the vets – some owners come in with scratches all over them because it’s difficult putting them in a carrier.

“That can be quite off-putting for owners.”

The free check-ups are available for cats over the age of 10 as part of a senior feline campaign at the surgery, in Mobberley Road.

Ian said owners can often mistake health problems in their cats as just old age, when it may be something that can be treated.

He said other symptoms can be missed because the pets are so independent.

“Our concern is that as cats age, people don’t appreciate that there may be a problem with them,” he said.

“A lot of owners assume that when their cat is sleeping more it’s because they are getting old, but there may be reasons behind that.”

Common problems that can affect cats in their old age include an over-active thyroid gland, kidney problems, diabetes, breathing problems and arthritis.

Ian said early intervention by a vet could solve these problems or at least make it possible for the cat to live comfortably with them.

The senior cat campaign follows a similar scheme for dogs, which saw 500 dogs visit the Willows’ surgeries across Cheshire.

For more information ring Holly House Veterinary Centre on 01565 632253.

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