This book is a great and brief summary on everything related to first time cat ownership and basic husbandry. The author begins with describing topics related to early kittenhood and yearlings, including getting the new addition comfortable at home, litter box management, vaccination (what to vaccinate for and why), and a full chapter on spay and neuter. Although the recommendations are British-based, the same aspects of spaying/ neutering (recommended age, anesthetic considerations, and pros/cons) would be aligned with Canadian views. Each topic is organized into brief paragraphs with pleasing titles, serving as an easy-to-read guide for any earthlings new to cat ownership.
An interesting chapter on dangerous food items highlights chocolate toxicity — more of a rarer finding in ill, poisoned cats, but other items include milk, raw meat, and xylitol. Explanation of these latter toxins are much appreciated additions from a veterinary standpoint. No other ailments, other than a few in the first aid chapter are described, and a missed opportunity by the author was a failure to highlight feline cystitis and risk of urethral blockage.
The most useful chapter is a full explanation on first aid for cats. I really enjoyed the first aid kit suggestions, including a 15-item list of various items from bandage materials to a thermometer and even a foil blanket. The author delves into symptoms requiring hasty action and provides a useful list of clinical signs all cat owners should monitor if they notice their feline friend acting off. Then, the author goes on to describe an introduction to first aid for choking, including how to gain access safely to open the cat’s mouth and actions required. The CPR part is well-described and gives helpful hints in checking for respiration and circulation status.
The book finishes with how to transport cats safely and a finale on pet insurance — useful and positive suggestions on what a policy may cover and suggestive questions to ask insurance companies when considering a certain policy. Overall, this book serves as the perfect summary on the basics of cat ownership and would be a nice gift for young, or old, enthusiastic cat owners.