September is Happy Cat Month, a great time to review your cat’s health and happiness. While indoor cats may seem safe from many of the risks that outdoor cats face, they are still vulnerable to a range of health issues that can go undetected without regular veterinary care. Wellness exams are essential, not only for early detection of potential problems but also for supporting long-term vitality—especially when combined with holistic therapies that treat the whole cat, not just the symptoms. By focusing on wellness, you can help your cat to live longer and live better with integrative care.  

The Importance of Regular Wellness Exams  

Many cat owners assume that if their indoor cat appears healthy and isn’t showing obvious signs of illness, they don’t need a vet visit. However, cats are masters at hiding pain and discomfort. By the time symptoms become noticeable, a condition may already be advanced.  

Wellness exams provide the opportunity for:  

  • Early detection of chronic diseases like kidney disease, diabetes, hyperthyroidism, and arthritis.

  • Monitoring weight and nutrition to prevent obesity—a common issue in indoor cats.

  • Assessing dental health, which is critical as dental disease is often silent but painful for your cat.

  • Evaluating challenging behaviors, especially for stress-related issues like inappropriate urination or over-grooming.

  • Vaccine updates and parasite prevention, even for indoor cats who can still be exposed.

Annual or semi-annual exams give your veterinarian a full picture of your cat’s health so that they can spot subtle changes before they become more serious issues. In addition, with integrative medicine you can introduce a number of holistic care options to address any weaknesses and to promote long-term health.  

Integrative Therapies for Feline Wellness  

Integrative veterinary care combines the best of conventional medicine with evidence-based holistic approaches to support the body’s natural healing processes and improve quality of life. These therapies are especially valuable for managing chronic conditions and promoting overall wellness in cats.  

Some commonly used integrative therapies include:  

  • Acupuncture: Helps manage pain, improve mobility in arthritic cats, and support organ function, especially for kidney and liver conditions.

  • Herbal medicine: Chinese or Western herbs can support digestion, immunity, and organ health when prescribed by a trained veterinary herbalist.

  • Laser therapy: A non-invasive treatment that reduces inflammation and speeds healing, often used for arthritis, wounds, or post-surgical recovery.

  • Nutritional counseling: Tailored diets and supplements (such as omega-3s, probiotics, or joint support) can prevent disease and enhance vitality.

  • Reiki and energy therapies: Gentle, non-invasive modalities that help reduce stress and support emotional and physical healing, especially in anxious or chronically ill cats.

Happy Cat Month is more than a reminder—it's a call to action. By scheduling regular wellness exams and exploring integrative options, you give your cat the best chance at a longer and healthier life.   

Make an appointment with your veterinarian today and discover how integrative care can support your cat’s individual needs. In honor of Happy Cat Month, we’re offering a holistic cat wellness exam for new clients for $60 off all month long, existing clients will save $20 off their cat wellness exam. Contact Longevity Veterinary Center at (973) 606-1101 to schedule or learn more.