Why Regular Vet Visits Matter for Cats (Even the Healthy-Looking Ones)

Originally published March 2018. Updated September 2025. Content reviewed by Jennifer Sperry, DVM, Medical Director

You love your cat. You feed them the good (read: expensive) food, offer up the coziest napping spots in the house, and probably let them claim the best seat on the couch, because how could you not?

But when was their last checkup? Many cats don’t get to the veterinarian as often as they should, even though regular visits can make a big difference in their health and happiness.

Let’s talk about why vet care matters and how it can help your cat thrive, no matter their age or lifestyle.

How Often Should I Take My Cat to the Vet?

As a general rule, healthy adult cats should see the veterinarian at least once a year. If your cat is a kitten, a senior, or has a chronic condition, your vet may recommend more frequent checkups. These visits are a chance to assess your cat’s overall well-being and catch any issues early, before they become bigger (and more expensive) problems.

Even indoor cats need regular vet care. Just because they stay inside doesn’t mean they’re protected from all health risks.

Preventive care for indoor cats is just as important as it is for cats and dogs who spend time exploring the great outdoors.

Why Does My Cat Need to Go to the Vet?

Cats may be independent, but that doesn’t mean they don’t need routine vet care. In fact, because they’re so good at hiding discomfort, staying on top of checkups is one of the best things you can do for their long-term health.

Here’s why those routine visits matter more than you might think.

Catch Health Issues Early

Cats are notoriously good at pretending everything’s fine. They’ll keep grooming, purring, and curling up in sunbeams, right up until something is seriously wrong. Wellness exams give your vet a chance to catch conditions like kidney disease, dental issues, or diabetes early, when treatment is typically easier and more effective.

Monitor Weight and Diet

Feline obesity is on the rise, and it’s linked to a whole list of health problems, including joint pain, diabetes, and heart disease.

Your vet will weigh your cat and compare that data over time. If the scale creeps up, they can suggest a tailored nutrition and exercise plan before extra pounds become a real problem.

Stay on Top of Vaccinations and Prevention

Vaccines do more than check a box. They help protect your cat from serious and contagious diseases like rabies, feline distemper, and respiratory infections.

During the visit, your vet can also recommend parasite prevention options for fleas, ticks, and even heartworms (yes, cats can get those, too).

Build a Health History

Regular visits help your veterinarian create a complete medical record for your cat. That way, subtle shifts, like weight loss, irregular breathing, or even skipping a favorite windowsill, can be tracked and addressed over time.

Just because your cat seems fine doesn’t mean everything’s running smoothly under the surface. Routine vet visits are your chance to stay ahead of health issues, keep up with essential protection, and make sure your cat is thriving, not just surviving.

Signs It’s Time for a Vet Visit (Don’t Wait!)

Don’t wait for the next annual visit if your cat is:

• Losing or gaining weight suddenly

• Vomiting or having diarrhea for more than a day

• Drinking or eating significantly more or less

• Hiding more than usual

• Breathing strangely or coughing

• Drooling or showing bad breath

• Limping or hesitating to jump

• Acting aggressive or confused

Your gut matters. If something feels off, call your vet. Cats are masters of disguise, and you know them better than anyone.

Common Health Issues in Cats

A few frequent flyers in the feline health department include:

• Dental disease, which can cause pain, tooth loss, and infections

• Obesity, often linked to diabetes, arthritis, and heart problems

• Chronic kidney disease, especially in older cats

• Hyperthyroidism, which can speed up metabolism and lead to weight loss

• Urinary tract issues, which may cause accidents or discomfort

Luckily, many of these conditions can be managed or even prevented when caught early.

Cat Vaccination Schedule: What You Should Know

Vaccines are more than just a routine part of your cat’s care. They’re essential protection that help prevent serious and sometimes contagious diseases. Here are a few of the most important vaccines your vet may recommend:

• Feline calicivirus (FCV) – This virus causes respiratory infections and oral disease in cats. Symptoms include sneezing, congestion, nasal discharge, and conjunctivitis, which is an inflammation of the membranes of the eyelids. It can also lead to very painful sores on the tongue and in the mouth.

• Feline herpesvirus type 1 (FHV-1 or rhinotracheitis) – FHV-1 is highly contagious, and it can spread rapidly in kennels, shelters, or homes with multiple cats. Symptoms include sneezing, nasal discharge, conjunctivitis, fever, and lack of appetite.

• Panleukopenia (feline distemper) – Feline distemper is not the same as canine distemper despite the name. This virus attacks the intestines, bone marrow, and lymph nodes. Symptoms include fever, vomiting, severe diarrhea, nasal discharge, and dehydration. It can also cause pregnant cats to abort their fetuses, result in severe birth defects, and damage the brains and eyes of young kittens.

• Rabies – You may be surprised to hear that rabies is more prevalent in cats than dogs according to the CDC. This makes rabies vaccinations especially important for our feline friends.

Your vet will help tailor a vaccination plan based on your cat’s age, health, and lifestyle. Staying up to date is one of the simplest ways to help your cat stay healthy long-term.

How to Prepare Your Cat for a Vet Visit

We get it-- getting your cat to the vet isn’t always easy. But a little preparation can go a long way.

• Choose the right carrier. It should be just big enough for your cat to turn around in comfortably.

• Make the carrier a familiar space. Keep it out and open at home, with treats or a soft blanket inside.

• Use pheromone sprays. These can help reduce anxiety during travel.

• Practice short car rides. This can help your cat get used to the motion and sounds of the car.

• Stay calm. Your cat picks up on your stress, so take a few deep breaths (and maybe pack a few extra treats).

Preparing ahead of time won’t eliminate all the stress, but it can go a long way toward helping your cat feel more comfortable, confident, and cared for during every vet visit.

A Longer, Healthier, Happier Life Together

Beyond the medical side, these visits build a bond between you, your cat, and your veterinarian. That trust matters, especially if your cat ever needs treatment down the line.

You’ll feel more confident asking questions, and your vet will better understand your cat’s unique needs.

Your cat counts on you to make the best decisions for their health. By staying on top of
routine vet visits, you’re doing more than checking a box. You’re giving your cat the gift of a
longer, more comfortable life.

And you’ll have more peace of mind, knowing you’re doing everything you can to support the snuggly, sassy, one-of-a-kind companion who’s part of
your family.