Domestic short-hair cat - Cat Breed Information

Domestic short-hair cat specific health concerns.

Domestic Shorthairs can be prone to certain health issues. Understanding these potential problems is crucial for early detection and preventative care, ensuring your feline friend lives a long and happy life.

Here are some common Domestic short-hair cat health issues¹:

Obesity: Domestic Shorthairs can be prone to weight gain, especially if they are not given adequate exercise or are overfed. Obesity can lead to a cascade of other health problems, including diabetes, arthritis, and heart disease. Managing their diet and ensuring plenty of playtime is essential.

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) and FLUTD: cats, in general, are susceptible to urinary tract issues. This includes UTIs and Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD), which can cause inflammation and blockages. Symptoms can include straining to urinate, frequent urination, and blood in the urine. A proper diet and ensuring access to fresh water are vital for urinary health.

Dental disease: dental problems are very common in cats. Regular dental checkups, teeth brushing, and a good dental diet can help prevent issues like gingivitis and periodontal disease.

Arthritis: as cats age, they can develop arthritis. While not as breed-specific as some other conditions, it's still a concern for older Domestic Shorthairs. Maintaining a healthy weight and providing comfortable bedding can help manage arthritis.

Commonly claimed health conditions for a Domestic short-hair cat.

Just like us, our pets can be affected by different illnesses, health conditions and unexpected accidental injuries. Here are some of the more commonly claimed conditions^{^} that a Domestic short-hair cat can experience.

Conditions.	Symptoms can include.^◇	Highest cost for a single treatment.^>>
Gastrointestinal tract condition.	Vomiting or diarrhoea. Change in appetite. Flatulence. Blood or mucus in the faeces. Constipation. Weight loss. Abdominal pain.	$7,256.
Urinary System Disorder.	Changes to toileting behaviour, including increased visits to the litter box, straining, or vocalising when urinating, changes in volume of urine passed Increased licking of the groin area. Changes in colour of urine. Urinary incontinence. Swollen abdomen, collapse in the case of urinary obstruction. Vomiting, changes in appetite, weight loss.	$13,335.
Traumatic accidents (including bite injuries, wounds and broken bones).	Wounds, scratches, pus, bleeding, swelling, heat, pain. Limping, changes to movement. Behaviour changes. Broken claws. Pain/tenderness.	$10,804.
Skin conditions (including infections and allergies).	Scratching, biting or rubbing the skin. Signs of irritation including red skin, scabs, bleeding, pustules, or weeping. Hair loss, flaky skin, texture changes, lumps or an unusual or unpleasant smell.	$2,951.
Arthritis.	Lameness or limping on affected limb(s). Stiffness on rising. Reluctance to jump, use stairs. Swelling on legs.	$2,680.

Other health considerations.

Vaccinations: consult your veterinarian for a personalised vaccination schedule tailored to your Domestic short-hair cat's age, lifestyle, and risk factors. Core vaccinations for cats typically include protection against feline distemper (panleukopenia), calicivirus, and herpesvirus (rhinotracheitis). Other non-core vaccinations, such as those for feline leukemia virus (FeLV) or rabies, may be recommended depending on your cat's lifestyle (e.g., indoor/outdoor) and potential exposure.

Flea and tick prevention: protect your Domestic short-hair cat from fleas and ticks with regular preventative treatments. Discuss options with your vet, including topical solutions, oral medications, and collars. Consider the best option for your cat's individual needs and potential sensitivities. Regular prevention is key, as these parasites can cause discomfort, transmit diseases, and lead to more serious health problems.

Worming: regular deworming is essential for Domestic short-hair cats. Work with your vet to establish a worming schedule that covers common feline intestinal parasites like roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms. Depending on your cat's lifestyle (indoor vs. outdoor), your vet may also recommend heartworm prevention. They can advise on the most effective products and frequency of treatment. Don't assume your indoor cat doesn't need worming; they can still be exposed.

How Everyday Pet Insurance can help.

Unexpected vet bills can be stressful. Pet Insurance can help cover the costs of diagnosis, treatment, and medication for various health conditions, including those specific to Domestic short-hair cats.

Here are some benefits you can enjoy with your Everyday Pet Insurance policy:

Policy terms and conditions, exclusions and limits apply. Benefit limit amounts vary by level of cover. Please read the Pet Insurance Product Disclosure Statement for full terms, conditions, limits and exclusions that apply.

VetAssist 24/7 online vet chat.

VetAssist connects you to licensed Australian vets via video or chat online. All Everyday Pet Insurance customers get free^† access to vet advice through VetAssist, available online 24/7. Access VetAssist via My Insurance Portal

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Claim on the spot with GapOnly®.

GapOnly® reviews and calculates your pet insurance claim while you’re still at the vet. You can claim on the spot and only pay the 'gap', the difference between the vet's bill and your eligible insurance benefit.⁼

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Get 30% off pet prescription medication**

PetScripts is a leading online Pet Pharmacy for your pet's medication. They're proudly Australian owned and operated by veterinarians, with registered Australian Pharmacists. Offer is valid until 1 July 2026. T&Cs apply. **

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Grooming your Domestic short-hair cat.

Domestic short-hair cats, while possessing shorter fur than some breeds, still require regular grooming to maintain a healthy coat and prevent issues.

Domestic short-hair cat grooming needs:

Regular brushing: while daily brushing might not be necessary for all Domestic short-hairs, regular brushing, at least a few times a week, is beneficial. This helps remove loose hair, reducing shedding around your home and preventing mats, especially in longer-haired Domestic short-hairs. A slicker brush, a rubber curry brush, or a soft bristle brush can be effective. The frequency of brushing depends on your cat's individual coat type and how much they shed.

Bathing: Domestic short-hairs rarely need baths unless they get particularly dirty or smelly. Over-bathing can strip their coat of natural oils and lead to dry skin. If you do bathe your cat, use a cat-specific shampoo and ensure you rinse them thoroughly.

Eye care: while tear staining isn't as common in Domestic short-hairs as in some breeds, it's still important to check their eyes regularly for any discharge or signs of irritation. Gently wipe the area around their eyes with a damp cloth as needed. If you notice excessive tearing, redness, or other eye problems, consult your vet.

Ear care: check your Domestic short-hair's ears periodically for dirt, debris, or signs of infection. Clean their ears with a cat-specific ear cleaner and cotton balls or pads, but avoid using cotton swabs inside the ear canal. If you notice any unusual discharge, odor, or redness, consult your vet. If you're unsure how to clean your cat's ears, ask your vet for advice.

Nail trimming: regular nail trimming is essential for all cats, including Domestic short-hairs. Trimming their nails prevents them from becoming overgrown, which can be painful and lead to mobility issues. Use cat nail clippers and be careful not to cut the quick (the pink part of the nail containing blood vessels and nerves). If you're unsure how to trim your cat's nails, ask your vet or a groomer for a demonstration.

Advanced coat maintenance tips:

Coat health: a healthy diet plays a crucial role in maintaining a shiny and healthy coat for your Domestic Shorthair. A diet rich in omega fatty acids can contribute to coat health. Talk to your vet about whether supplements like fish oil might be beneficial for your cat. Proper nutrition is key to preventing dryness, breakage, and excessive shedding.

Grooming tools: while the tool kit is simpler than for long-haired cats, having the right tools makes grooming easier.

Soft bristle brush or rubber curry brush: these are excellent for removing loose hair and stimulating the skin, promoting a healthy coat. A slicker brush can be useful for some shorthairs that have slightly longer or denser fur, but isn't always necessary.

Metal comb: useful for checking for mats (less common in shorthairs but still possible) and for gently removing any debris.

Nail clippers: essential for regular nail trims.

Ear cleaning solution and cotton balls/pads: for keeping those ears clean.

Find out more about grooming your cat

Nutrition and diet to fuel your Domestic short-hair cat.

A balanced diet can be essential for your Domestic short-hair cat's health and well-being.

High-quality food.

A good diet is key to your Domestic short-hair's health. Look for foods where meat is the first ingredient, avoiding excessive fillers and artificial additives. Options include:

Kibble: convenient and affordable, but choose a high-quality brand.

Wet food: higher moisture content, beneficial for urinary health.

Raw/home-cooked: requires careful planning and vet consultation to ensure nutritional balance.

Tip: when choosing cat food, several key considerations apply. Since cats are obligate carnivores, a high-quality animal protein source should be the first ingredient. Taurine, an essential amino acid, must also be present. Minimise or avoid excessive fillers like corn, wheat, and soy. Select a food appropriate for your cat's life stage (kitten, adult, or senior). Finally, consult your veterinarian for personalised dietary recommendations, as they can consider your Domestic short-hair's age, health, and lifestyle to help you choose the most appropriate food.

Keeping your Domestic short-hair cat engaged.

Domestic short-hair cats are intelligent and curious creatures. Providing them with mental and physical stimulation is essential for their well-being and can help prevent boredom and unwanted behaviors. Here are some ways to keep your Domestic short-hair engaged:

Enrichment activities.

Puzzle toys: cat-specific puzzle toys that dispense treats or require problem-solving can keep their minds active and satisfy their hunting instincts.

Interactive play: Domestic short-hairs enjoy interactive play. Wand toys, feather wands, and laser pointers are great options. Short, frequent play sessions are ideal, and always supervise your cat during playtime. Some cats also enjoy playing fetch with small, lightweight toys.

Scratching posts: provide a variety of scratching posts (vertical and horizontal) to allow your cat to exhibit natural scratching behavior, keeping their claws healthy and preventing damage to furniture.

Trees/climbing structures: cats love to climb and observe their surroundings from a high vantage point. A cat tree or other climbing structure can provide them with exercise and mental stimulation.

Training: yes, cats can benefit from training too. While not as commonly associated with cats as dogs, training can be a great way to bond with your Domestic short-hair and provide mental enrichment. Use positive reinforcement techniques (treats, praise) to teach basic commands like "come" or "sit." Even simple tricks can be a fun way to engage your cat's mind.

Domestic short-hair cat communities and resources.

Connecting with other cat owners can be incredibly valuable. While there might not be breed-specific groups solely for "Domestic short-hairs" (given it's a broad category encompassing many mixed breeds), numerous resources can connect you with fellow cat lovers and provide helpful information:

Online forums and social media groups: search for "cat owner groups," "cat lovers," or "Domestic short-hair" (if you want to connect with others who have similar-looking cats) on social media platforms. These groups often discuss general cat care, health issues, behavior problems, and offer support and advice.

Local animal shelters and rescues: these organizations are a great resource for finding information about cat care and may also host events or workshops. They can also connect you with other cat owners in your area.

Veterinarians: your veterinarian is a primary resource for information about your cat's health and well-being. They can also be a good source of referrals to other cat owners or local cat clubs.

Cat breed-specific websites (general): while not specific to Domestic short-hairs, websites dedicated to cat breeds often have helpful information about general cat care, which is applicable to all cats.

Local cat clubs: search for cat clubs in your area. While they may focus on specific breeds, they often welcome all cat lovers and can provide valuable information and resources.

If you're unsure about any advice you find, make sure to consult your vet.

Everyday Pet Insurance is here for you.

Caring for a Domestic short-hair cat is a rewarding experience, filled with love, laughter, and endless cuddles. By understanding their specific needs, from health considerations to grooming and nutrition, you can help your furry friend enjoy a happy life by your side. Remember, proactive care is key to preventing problems and catching any potential issues early. This includes regular vet checkups, a balanced diet,appropriate exercise and consider having protection in place for unexpected events.

Thank you for being part of the Everyday Pet Insurance family.

Just like your Domestic short-hair cat relies on you for their well-being, Everyday Pet Insurance can help protect you and your furry best friend.

We process 90% of claims within just 1 day.^»~

We don't keep you waiting. Make a claim online whenever you need with MyPet Portal via My Insurance Portal.

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Important Information.

Sources:

¹https://catdoctor.com.au
https://www.vet.cornell.edu
https://www.aspca.org

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^>> As at 31/12/2023 based on the previous 12 months of PetSure (Australia) Pty Ltd claims data.

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Domestic short-hair cat owner's guide: loving and caring for your furry companion.

We're looking forward to continuing to protect your Domestic short-hair cat with Everyday Pet Insurance.

Here's some information about providing great care for your furry friend.

Domestic short-hair cat specific health concerns.

Here are some common Domestic short-hair cat health issues¹: