Building off our recent blog about stem cell therapy for cats, National Take Your Cat to the Vet Day on August 22 is a great reminder of something every cat owner should prioritize: routine veterinary care.

Cats are experts at hiding pain and illness. A cat may continue eating, grooming, and going about its normal routine even when an underlying health problem is developing. Regular veterinary examinations allow veterinarians to monitor changes over time and identify potential problems earlier.

Unfortunately, cats receive veterinary care less often than dogs. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, cats visit the veterinarian an average of 0.7 times per year, compared with 1.5 times for dogs. In 2024, 28% of cat-owning households reported no veterinary spending, compared with 16% of dog-owning households. These differences have continued to be documented in more recent research.

Routine examinations aren’t only about treating illness, they’re an opportunity to catch subtle changes before they become bigger problems. Veterinary visits can include assessments of a cat’s weight, dental health, mobility, behavior, and overall condition, with additional diagnostic testing recommended based on the cat’s age and individual needs.

Regular care becomes especially important as cats get older. Common conditions such as osteoarthritis, chronic kidney disease, and more can affect a cat’s comfort and quality of life and may require ongoing management. As we discussed in our recent blog, VetStem Cell Therapy may be considered as part of a veterinarian’s treatment plan for cats with certain chronic and inflammatory conditions. But whether a cat needs advanced treatment or simply a wellness examination, maintaining a relationship with a veterinarian is an important first step.