April is National Pet First Aid Awareness Month! We know, nobody wants to think of their feline friends being hurt. Unfortunately, accidents can and do happen. In a worst-case scenario, you may need to provide your kitty with some basic first-aid, even if it’s just to stabilize her enough to be transported. Having a well-stocked pet first-aid kit could make all the difference here! A Burlington, ON veterinarian offers some advice on this below.

Container

For a container, any waterproof plastic storage box will do. You can also use a fishing tackle box, or a toiletry bag. Keep this in or near Fluffy’s carrier, along with basic supplies like food, treats, dishes, and a litterbox. That way, you already have a great emergency travel bag … which you’ll hopefully never have to use!

Starting Out

Start with a regular first-aid kit, for people, and add some pet-specific things. You’d definitely want to include some bandaging material, such as gauze pads, non-stick bandages, and cotton padding. You’ll also need something to clean a wound with, such as alcohol, saline solution (eyewash), or chlorhexidine. You may also want to add hydrogen peroxide and activated charcoal, though you should only use these if directed to by your vet or another professional. Also on the list? Tweezers, popsicle sticks, styptic powder, towels, a thermal blanket, a pen light, a tick popper, blunt-end scissors, nail clippers, a magnifying glass, an ice pack, a thermometer, and latex gloves. Ask your vet for more suggestions.

Information

It’s a good idea to buy or print some pet first-aid brochures. Keep these in the kit. You may also want to download a pet first-aid app to your phone. (Tip: the Red Cross has a good one.) Include your furry buddy’s medical records as well. This could be extremely important if your pet has any known health issues, since in an emergency you may need to take Fluffy to a 24/7 clinic, rather than her regular vet.

Prevention

When it comes to keeping kitties healthy, an ounce of prevention is worth several pounds of cure. The single most important thing that you can do would be to keep your feline friend safe and sound inside. Petproofing is next on the list. Ask your vet for specific advice. Do you have questions about your cat’s health or care? Contact us, your Burlington, ON animal clinic, today!