If a picture is worth a thousand words, then a video is invaluable!

Common challenges facing cat guardians are accurately detecting when our feline friends are feeling poorly, and then determining the cause of the problem. By nature, cats are designed to hide their weakness. As a predator and prey animal, these instincts are strong. It takes a keen eye to pick up on some of the subtle signs of distress.

If you notice your pet acting strange, exhibiting unusual or worrisome behavior, grab your smartphone and capture a brief video of the episode. This can be a very helpful resource for your veterinarian and may enable the doctor to better understand what your pet is experiencing. A physical exam and laboratory tests are important elements of a diagnosis. A video clip can be the extra piece of the puzzle that guides the doctor toward which tests to perform, potentially saving critical time and money. Most importantly, swift action improves the odds of a good recovery.

When animals are out of the home, they may hide their symptoms. This  is especially true for cats in a stressful environment. They may experience an adrenaline rush that can mask pain and certain other symptoms. By allowing your veterinarian to see what’s happening while your cat is in the home, it may enable the doctor to provide more comprehensive care.

Additionally, with your permission, the veterinarian may choose to share the video with staff members for training purposes. In that case, not only will you have helped your cat by helping your veterinarian, you may also make a positive difference in the lives of other pets in the future.

As always, if you have medical questions, seek the guidance of your trusted veterinarian. If you’re looking for a veterinarian who specializes in feline-friendly care, check out the American Association of Feline Practitioners.