Do Indoor Cats Need Vet Visits? | South Park Animal Hospital

It’s a common belief among cat owners: “My cat doesn’t go outside, so she doesn’t need to see the vet very often.” While it’s true that indoor cats avoid some of the dangers their outdoor counterparts face, they are not immune to illness or injury. At South Park Animal Hospital, we often see preventable conditions in indoor cats that could have been caught earlier with regular checkups.

One of the biggest misconceptions is that indoor cats can’t get parasites or infectious diseases. But fleas, ticks, and even intestinal worms can make their way into your home through shoes, other pets, or open windows. Likewise, certain viruses like feline calicivirus or feline herpesvirus can be spread by contact with contaminated surfaces—especially if your cat occasionally visits groomers or boarding facilities.

Another important consideration is your cat’s weight and lifestyle. Many indoor cats are less active and more prone to obesity, which is a leading cause of diabetes, arthritis, and urinary issues. At regular wellness exams, we assess your cat’s weight and muscle condition, recommend feeding adjustments, and offer enrichment ideas to keep your cat active and stimulated indoors.

Dental disease is another common issue. In fact, most cats over age three have some form of dental disease, which can lead to pain, tooth loss, or infection. Indoor cats are no exception. Dental exams and cleanings are key to keeping your cat comfortable and healthy.

Indoor cats are also susceptible to silent diseases that develop gradually. Kidney disease, thyroid imbalance, and heart conditions often show no symptoms until they’ve progressed. Annual exams and routine blood work help us catch these problems in their earliest stages—when treatment is most effective and less invasive.

Even behavioral issues can signal underlying health problems. Changes in appetite, litter box habits, grooming, or hiding behavior may point to stress, illness, or pain. If your normally social cat is suddenly withdrawing or avoiding interaction, it’s time to schedule an exam.

Vaccinations remain important, too. Core vaccines like rabies and feline distemper (FVRCP) are recommended for all cats, regardless of lifestyle. Rabies vaccination is legally required in many areas and protects your cat if they ever escape or come into contact with a potentially infected animal.

At South Park Animal Hospital, we aim to educate cat parents, not overwhelm them. We know that bringing a cat to the vet can be stressful, so we use feline-friendly techniques and offer advice on reducing anxiety around carriers and travel. Our team is trained in gentle handling and can work with even the most apprehensive feline patients.

Skipping vet visits because your cat seems “fine” might save time in the short term—but it can lead to missed opportunities for early detection and preventive care. Indoor cats may be safer from traffic and predators, but they still depend on us for complete health protection.

Your cat’s quiet presence at home is a source of comfort, companionship, and joy. Let’s give them the care they need to thrive for years to come—with regular checkups that keep their health on track. Visit South Park Animal Hospital at 598 2nd Street, San Francisco, CA 94107 today or call (415) 523-4404.