How Much is a Cat Checkup at PetSmart? Your Guide to Banfield Pet Hospital Costs š±š°
PetSmart is home to Banfield Pet Hospitals, which offer a range of veterinary services, including routine cat checkups. If youāre wondering how much you can expect to pay for your catās visit, youāve come to the right place. In this comprehensive guide, weāll break down the costs associated with a catās checkup at Banfield, tips for saving money, and which services are included in the visit.
Key Takeaways: Quick Answers on Cat Checkup Costs at PetSmart š”
- Whatās the average cost?Ā A basic cat checkup at Banfield Pet Hospital typically costsĀ $50 to $80.
- Are vaccinations included?Ā Vaccinations are usually extra, addingĀ $20 to $40Ā depending on the type of vaccine.
- What if my cat needs additional tests?Ā Blood work, X-rays, and other diagnostics can increase the total cost, ranging fromĀ $80 to $250.
- How can I save money?Ā ConsiderĀ wellness plansĀ or PetSmart promotions to lower the cost of routine care.
š©ŗ What Services Are Included in a Cat Checkup at Banfield Pet Hospital?
A standard cat checkup at Banfield Pet Hospital includes a variety of preventive services to ensure your catās health is in top shape. Hereās what you can expect during the visit:
Service | Description | Estimated Cost | Why Itās Important |
---|---|---|---|
Physical Examination | Comprehensive exam of your catās overall health, including weight, coat, and eyes. | $50 ā $80 | Helps detect any early signs of illness or health issues. |
Vaccinations (Optional) | Common vaccines like rabies and FVRCP to protect against dangerous diseases. | $20 ā $40 per vaccine | Essential for preventing life-threatening infections. |
Flea/Tick Prevention | Evaluation of flea, tick, and parasite protection, with recommendations for prevention. | $20 ā $60 | Protects your cat from parasites that can cause health issues. |
Dental Check | Examination of your catās teeth and gums to check for plaque and dental disease. | Included | Prevents dental disease, which can lead to pain and infections. |
Basic Blood Work (Optional) | Blood tests to check for infections, organ health, and other underlying conditions. | $80 ā $150 | Critical for detecting early signs of diseases, especially in senior cats. |
š” Pro Tip: Ask about wellness packages that bundle these services together for a discounted price, especially if your cat needs vaccinations and blood work.
š° How Much Does a Cat Checkup Cost at Banfield Pet Hospital (PetSmart)?
The cost of a cat checkup at Banfield Pet Hospital can vary based on your location and the services provided. Hereās a breakdown of the basic costs:
Service Category | Low-End Estimate | High-End Estimate | Comments |
---|---|---|---|
Basic Checkup | $50 | $80 | Price depends on the clinic and the region. |
Vaccinations | $20 per vaccine | $40 per vaccine | Essential for protecting against rabies, distemper, and more. |
Flea/Tick Prevention | $20 | $60 | Includes flea medication or topical treatments. |
Blood Work (If Required) | $80 | $150 | Usually recommended for senior cats or if health concerns arise. |
Dental Exam | Often included | Costs can increase with cleaning or extractions. | Early dental checkups can prevent costly treatments later on. |
š” Pro Tip: The Banfield Optimum Wellness Plan can help lower these costs by bundling services such as exams, vaccinations, and diagnostic tests into a single, predictable monthly payment.
š”ļø Are There Ways to Save Money on a Cat Checkup at PetSmart?
Yes! There are several ways to reduce the cost of your catās checkup at Banfield Pet Hospital in PetSmart. Here are some strategies to help manage expenses:
- Banfield Wellness PlansĀ š„: Banfield offersĀ Optimum Wellness PlansĀ that cover the cost of routine care for aĀ monthly fee. These plans typically includeĀ unlimited office visits,Ā annual vaccinations,Ā blood work, andĀ preventive screenings. Pricing starts aroundĀ $20 to $40 per month, depending on your catās needs, and can save you money if your cat requires regular care.
- PetSmart PromotionsĀ šļø: Keep an eye onĀ PetSmart promotionsĀ orĀ Banfield dealsĀ for first-time clients. Occasionally, Banfield offersĀ discounts on exams, vaccinations, or special packages, especially for new pet owners.
- Vaccination ClinicsĀ š: Look forĀ low-cost vaccination clinicsĀ hosted at PetSmart locations or in your community. While these clinics may not offer full checkups, they can significantly reduce the cost of vaccinations for your cat, particularly if your budget is tight.
- Discount DaysĀ š : Some PetSmart locations offerĀ discount daysĀ or special promotions for routine checkups. Call ahead to see if your local Banfield has any upcoming events or specials.
š” Pro Tip: If you have multiple pets, ask Banfield if they offer a multi-pet discount or bundle wellness plans to cover all of your cats under one package.
š©ø Does Banfield Offer Blood Work and Other Diagnostics for Cats?
Yes, Banfield Pet Hospitals offer blood work, urinalysis, and other diagnostic services as part of their comprehensive care. Hereās a breakdown of some common diagnostic tests and their associated costs:
Diagnostic Service | Description | Estimated Cost | Why Itās Important |
---|---|---|---|
Complete Blood Count (CBC) | Measures red and white blood cells, platelets, and checks for infections. | $80 ā $120 | Detects infections, anemia, or immune disorders. |
Blood Chemistry Panel | Tests for kidney, liver, and pancreatic function. | $90 ā $150 | Identifies early signs of organ disease. |
Urinalysis | Analyzes your catās urine for infections, diabetes, or kidney issues. | $25 ā $50 | Helps detect urinary tract infections and kidney disease. |
X-rays (If Needed) | Imaging to check for broken bones, internal injuries, or tumors. | $100 ā $250 | Used to diagnose injuries or internal problems. |
š” Pro Tip: If your cat is a senior or has underlying health issues, talk to your vet about scheduling annual blood work. Detecting health issues early can prevent more expensive treatments down the road.
š¾ What Should I Expect During a Cat Checkup at Banfield Pet Hospital?
A cat checkup at Banfield Pet Hospital is designed to be a thorough evaluation of your catās overall health. Hereās what happens during a typical visit:
- Physical ExamĀ š©ŗ: The vet will check your catās weight, coat, ears, eyes, and teeth for any signs of illness. Theyāll also listen to their heart and lungs, feeling for any lumps or abnormalities.
- VaccinationsĀ š: If your cat is due for any vaccinations (likeĀ rabiesĀ orĀ feline distemper), the vet will administer these during the visit.
- Dental ExamĀ š¦·: A quick examination of your catās teeth and gums helps detect anyĀ early signs of dental disease. If needed, your vet may recommend scheduling a professional cleaning.
- Discussion of Preventive CareĀ š”ļø: The vet will talk with you aboutĀ parasite prevention, such as flea and tick medications, and address any concerns you have about your catās diet, behavior, or lifestyle.
- Additional TestingĀ š§Ŗ: If your cat is a senior or showing signs of illness, the vet may suggestĀ blood workĀ orĀ urinalysisĀ to screen for internal health issues.
š” Pro Tip: Always bring a list of any concerns or questions you have about your catās health, such as changes in eating habits, weight, or energy levels, to make the most of your checkup.
šļø Key Takeaways: Cat Checkup Costs at PetSmart (Banfield Pet Hospital)
- Basic checkup costsĀ range fromĀ $50 to $80, with vaccinations and additional tests adding extra.
- ConsiderĀ Banfieldās Optimum Wellness PlanĀ to save on routine care with predictable monthly payments.
- Blood workĀ and diagnostics are available but can increase the total cost, ranging fromĀ $80 to $250Ā depending on the tests required.
- Look forĀ discounts, promotions,Ā andĀ vaccination clinicsĀ to reduce the cost of preventive care.
By understanding the costs and services included in a catās checkup at Banfield, you can ensure your feline friend gets the care they need while staying within your budget. š¾š
Q: How does the Banfield Optimum Wellness Plan save money on cat checkups? Is it worth the monthly fee?
The Banfield Optimum Wellness Plan (OWP) is an excellent way to manage routine veterinary costs for your cat by bundling essential services into a predictable, monthly fee. Hereās how it can save you money and why itās worth considering:
- Unlimited Office VisitsĀ š„: One of the major benefits of Banfieldās OWP is that it includesĀ unlimited office visits, which means you can bring your cat in for any non-emergency concerns without worrying about paying for each visit. This is particularly helpful for new pet owners or those with cats that require frequent checkups due to age or health conditions.
- Included Core ServicesĀ š: Depending on the level of plan you choose, OWPs often coverĀ annual exams,Ā vaccinations,Ā blood work, andĀ fecal tests. Since these services are bundled into a single payment, you can avoid the surprise of multiple charges during the year. For example, if a typical exam costs aroundĀ $50-$80, combined with vaccinations that can run up toĀ $40Ā per shot, youāll quickly see the value of having those costs spread out.
- Discounts on Additional ServicesĀ š·ļø: For any services that arenāt included in your planāsuch asĀ dental cleaningsĀ orĀ diagnosticsāBanfield OWPs often provideĀ discountsĀ (ranging from 10% to 20%). If your cat requires additional care like a blood panel or X-rays, these discounts can significantly reduce the overall bill.
- Preventive Care FocusĀ š”ļø: The OWP is designed to prioritizeĀ preventive care, which can save you money in the long run by catching health problems early before they become costly emergencies. Routine exams, parasite prevention, and wellness screenings can help prevent serious conditions likeĀ kidney diseaseĀ orĀ diabetes, which can require expensive treatments later on.
š” Pro Tip: If your cat is young and healthy, the basic wellness plan is usually sufficient to cover their routine needs. However, for senior cats or those with underlying health issues, upgrading to a plan that includes blood work and advanced diagnostics might be worth the extra monthly cost to ensure comprehensive care.
Q: What vaccinations are included in Banfieldās checkup, and are they necessary for indoor cats?
Banfieldās checkup typically includes core vaccinations like rabies and the FVRCP combo vaccine (feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia). Even if your cat is indoor-only, these vaccines are still recommended for several important reasons:
- RabiesĀ š¦ : Rabies vaccination isĀ required by lawĀ in many states, regardless of whether your cat goes outside. Even indoor cats can be exposed to rabies if they escape briefly or if a rabid animal, such as a bat, enters your home. Rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms appear, so vaccinating your cat is essential for their safetyāand yours.
- FVRCP Combo VaccineĀ š: This vaccine protects againstĀ three highly contagious viruses: feline viral rhinotracheitis (herpesvirus), calicivirus, and panleukopenia (feline distemper). These viruses can cause severe respiratory illness, mouth ulcers, or even death in kittens. Although the risk is higher for outdoor cats, indoor cats can still be exposed to these viruses through contact with other pets or contaminated objects.
- Feline Leukemia (FeLV)Ā š§¬: While FeLV vaccines are typically recommended for cats that go outside or live with other cats, your vet might suggest it if your indoor cat occasionally interacts with other cats or if you plan to adopt additional pets in the future. FeLV can be fatal and is spread through close contact, grooming, or sharing food bowls.
š” Pro Tip: Even if your cat is indoors, itās wise to stay current on core vaccines like rabies and FVRCP. Vaccines help protect against unexpected exposure to disease and ensure that your cat meets local legal requirements. Ask your vet if the FeLV vaccine is necessary based on your catās lifestyle.
Q: How do Banfieldās prices for a cat checkup compare to independent veterinary clinics?
When comparing Banfield Pet Hospital prices with independent veterinary clinics, here are the key factors to consider:
- Routine Checkup CostsĀ š°: Banfieldās routine checkups typically cost betweenĀ $50 and $80, which is fairly comparable to independent clinics. However, independent clinics may have more flexibility in pricing or offerĀ a la carte services, whereas Banfieldās pricing structure is more standardized across its locations.
- Bundled Services and Wellness PlansĀ š©ŗ: Where Banfield really stands out is in itsĀ Optimum Wellness PlansĀ (OWP), which bundle routine care into aĀ monthly fee. If you plan to take your cat in forĀ multiple servicesĀ (like exams, vaccinations, and blood work), Banfieldās OWP can offer significant savings compared to independent clinics, where each service might be billed separately. Independent clinics may not offer such comprehensive wellness packages, so the overall cost could be higher, especially for senior cats or those with chronic health issues.
- Discounts on DiagnosticsĀ š¬: With Banfieldās OWP, you typically getĀ discountsĀ on diagnostics and additional treatments not covered in the plan. Independent clinics may or may not offer discounts, but some may provideĀ promotionsĀ orĀ one-time dealsĀ on services like dental cleanings or vaccinations. Itās worth checking with local clinics to compare pricing for specific services.
- Convenience of Multiple LocationsĀ š: Banfield operates withinĀ PetSmartĀ locations nationwide, offering consistency in pricing and convenience if you move or travel frequently. Independent clinics may vary widely in price depending on geographic location and the level of care they offer.
š” Pro Tip: If your cat requires routine care and you value convenience, Banfieldās wellness plans might save you money in the long run. However, if you prefer a more tailored approach or need specialized care, you may find an independent vet offers more flexibility or personalized service.
Q: Does Banfield offer care for senior cats, and what does a senior wellness checkup include?
Yes, Banfield Pet Hospital provides specialized care for senior cats, which includes more thorough examinations and diagnostics to monitor age-related health concerns. Hereās what a typical senior wellness checkup might include:
- Comprehensive Physical ExamĀ š©ŗ: Senior cats are more prone to developing chronic conditions likeĀ arthritis,Ā diabetes, orĀ heart disease. The vet will conduct a detailed physical exam, checking for any signs of discomfort, joint pain, or weight changes that may indicate underlying health issues.
- Blood WorkĀ š©ø: Regular blood work becomes more important as cats age, and a senior checkup usually includes aĀ Complete Blood Count (CBC)Ā andĀ blood chemistry panel. These tests assess your catāsĀ kidney,Ā liver, andĀ thyroid function, which are critical areas to monitor in older cats. Blood work can detect conditions likeĀ kidney diseaseĀ (a common issue in senior cats) before they become symptomatic.
- UrinalysisĀ š½: Alongside blood work, aĀ urinalysisĀ helps evaluate your catās kidney and bladder health. Itās particularly useful for identifying early signs ofĀ urinary tract infections,Ā kidney disease, orĀ diabetes.
- Dental ExamĀ š¦·: Senior cats are at higher risk ofĀ periodontal disease, which can lead to tooth loss or infections that affect other organs. The dental exam during a senior wellness check will evaluate your catās teeth and gums, potentially recommending aĀ dental cleaningĀ if needed.
- Weight and Nutrition AssessmentĀ āļø: Senior cats often experience changes in metabolism, and maintaining a healthy weight becomes more difficult. The vet will check your catās weight and discuss any necessary dietary adjustments to supportĀ joint health, prevent obesity, or address age-related nutritional needs.
š” Pro Tip: If your cat is over 7 years old, consider upgrading to a senior wellness plan at Banfield. These plans typically include the diagnostics and regular monitoring that senior cats require, helping you manage age-related conditions and prevent expensive emergency treatments down the road.
Q: How does Banfield handle emergency care? Should I use Banfield for urgent issues?
While Banfield Pet Hospitals are great for routine and preventive care, they are not equipped to handle major emergencies. Hereās what to know about Banfieldās approach to urgent issues:
- Limited Emergency ServicesĀ š: Banfield clinics, located within PetSmart stores, are typicallyĀ open during store hoursĀ and are not designed for after-hours or life-threatening emergencies. They do not have the specialized equipment needed for surgeries or intensive care treatments that a 24-hourĀ emergency animal hospitalĀ would provide.
- Urgent, Non-Emergency IssuesĀ š: For less critical issuesāsuch as mild injuries, allergic reactions, or gastrointestinal problemsāBanfield can usually accommodateĀ urgent appointmentsĀ during regular hours. However, itās important to call ahead to ensure they can fit you in or refer you to an emergency vet if the issue is more serious.
- Emergency ReferralsĀ šØ: If your cat experiences a severe emergency (such asĀ trauma,Ā severe breathing difficulties, orĀ seizures), Banfield will likely refer you to aĀ 24-hour emergency clinicĀ that specializes in urgent and critical care. Itās a good idea to have the contact information of your local emergency vet on hand for such situations.
š” Pro Tip: Use Banfield for routine wellness and preventive care, but always have a backup plan for emergencies. Know the location of the nearest 24-hour animal hospital and keep their phone number easily accessible in case your cat needs urgent medical attention.
Q: How does Banfieldās Optimum Wellness Plan (OWP) differ from standard pet insurance?
The Banfield Optimum Wellness Plan (OWP) and traditional pet insurance serve very different purposes when it comes to covering your catās healthcare needs. Hereās a detailed comparison to help you understand the key differences:
- Preventive Care vs. Emergency CoverageĀ š©ŗš„: The Banfield OWP focuses onĀ preventive care, covering routine services likeĀ annual exams,Ā vaccinations,Ā blood work, andĀ parasite prevention. This helps keep your cat healthy and catch any issues before they become serious. On the other hand, pet insurance typically coversĀ unexpected medical costsĀ like accidents, injuries, and major illnessesāthinkĀ emergency surgeries, treatment forĀ cancer, orĀ hospitalizationĀ for sudden illnesses.
- Covered ServicesĀ š”ļø: The OWP is essentially aĀ membership planĀ for routine, ongoing care. It includesĀ unlimited office visits, which is great if you want peace of mind about taking your cat in for minor concerns without worrying about each visitās cost. Pet insurance doesnāt usually cover routine checkups but kicks in when youāre faced withĀ big, unexpected bills, such as treating a broken leg or diagnosing a serious condition likeĀ diabetesĀ orĀ heart disease.
- Monthly Fees vs. ReimbursementĀ š³: Banfield OWP works through aĀ monthly subscription model, where you pay a set fee that includes services throughout the year. You donāt have to pay for individual services out of pocket because theyāre already covered in your plan. With pet insurance, youāll pay aĀ monthly premium, but you typically cover the vet bill upfront and are laterĀ reimbursedĀ for eligible expenses, depending on your policyās deductible and coverage limits.
- Cost EffectivenessĀ šø: The OWP is ideal for pet owners who want predictable costs for their catās preventive care, as it spreads the expense ofĀ vaccinations,Ā exams, andĀ lab testsĀ over the year. It can also save you money if your cat requires frequent checkups or vaccinations. However, if your cat encounters a serious illness or accident, pet insurance can save you from aĀ financially devastatingĀ emergency vet bill that OWP doesnāt cover.
š” Pro Tip: Consider using both the OWP for preventive care and pet insurance for emergencies to cover all bases. The wellness plan will keep your cat on track with routine health, while pet insurance protects against those unexpected, costly events.
Q: Can I use Banfieldās OWP at any PetSmart location, or am I limited to just one?
One of the advantages of Banfieldās OWP is that it provides flexibility across its many locations. Hereās how it works:
- Nationwide AccessĀ š: When you sign up for Banfieldās OWP, you gain access toĀ all Banfield Pet HospitalsĀ located within PetSmart stores across the country. This is especially beneficial if you travel often or move between cities, as your catās wellness plan can follow you wherever thereās a Banfield location.
- Centralized Medical RecordsĀ š©ŗ: Banfield keepsĀ digital recordsĀ of your catās health history, so even if you visit a different Banfield location, all of your petāsĀ medical informationĀ andĀ vaccination historyĀ are accessible to the attending veterinarian. This ensures continuity of care without the hassle of transferring records or worrying about missed vaccines or treatments.
- No Extra Costs for Switching ClinicsĀ š³: There are no extra fees for visiting a different Banfield location under your OWP. Whether youāre on vacation or have recently relocated, you can schedule an appointment at any Banfield clinic, and the services included in your plan will be honored.
š” Pro Tip: If youāre planning a trip and may need to visit a Banfield location while traveling, call ahead to make sure they can accommodate your cat and confirm any necessary records are up to date for a smooth visit.
Q: Does Banfield offer any specific benefits for senior cats in their wellness plans?
Yes, Banfieldās Optimum Wellness Plans are designed to support cats of all ages, but they provide specific benefits for senior cats that help address the unique health challenges of aging felines. Hereās whatās tailored for older cats:
- Comprehensive Senior ExamsĀ š©ŗ: For senior cats (typically over the age of 7), Banfield offersĀ comprehensive physical examsĀ that go beyond the basic checkup. These exams focus on age-related concerns such asĀ mobility,Ā weight management, and signs ofĀ cognitive declineĀ orĀ arthritis. The exams often include a discussion on maintaining your catās quality of life as they age.
- Annual Blood Work and DiagnosticsĀ š©ø: As part of senior care, Banfieldās wellness plans often includeĀ annual blood workĀ to monitor your catās internal organ function, such asĀ kidney,Ā liver, andĀ thyroid health. This is especially important for detecting early signs ofĀ chronic kidney diseaseĀ orĀ hyperthyroidism, which are common in older cats.
- Dental CleaningsĀ š¦·: SinceĀ dental healthĀ can deteriorate with age, leading toĀ painful infectionsĀ or tooth loss, Banfield includesĀ dental cleaningsĀ in their wellness plans. These cleanings help prevent severe periodontal disease, which can affect your catās ability to eat and their overall health.
- Urinalysis and Blood Pressure MonitoringĀ š½: Senior wellness plans often includeĀ urinalysisĀ to check forĀ urinary tract infectionsĀ and ensure your catās kidneys are functioning properly. Some plans also coverĀ blood pressure checks, as high blood pressure can lead to complications likeĀ heart diseaseĀ orĀ vision lossĀ in older cats.
š” Pro Tip: If you have a senior cat, upgrading to a senior wellness plan is well worth it. These plans ensure that your cat receives early detection tests and ongoing preventive care, which can prolong their life and improve their comfort as they age.
Q: How does Banfield handle dental cleanings for cats, and are they included in wellness plans?
Dental cleanings are an important part of your catās health, and Banfield offers them as part of certain Optimum Wellness Plans. Hereās what to expect from their dental services:
- Full Dental Exam and CleaningĀ š¦·: A professional dental cleaning at Banfield involves a full examination of your catās teeth and gums, performed underĀ anesthesia. This is necessary to thoroughly clean below the gumline, where most plaque and tartar build up and causeĀ gingivitisĀ or more severe periodontal disease. The cleaning includesĀ scaling,Ā polishing, andĀ fluoride treatmentsĀ to keep your catās teeth healthy.
- Preventing Dental DiseaseĀ ā ļø: Regular dental cleanings are essential for preventingĀ painful tooth decayĀ orĀ gum diseaseĀ that could lead to infections affecting other parts of the body, like the heart and kidneys. Banfieldās dental services help maintain your catās oral health, reducing the likelihood of tooth extractions or costly surgeries later on.
- Anesthesia and MonitoringĀ š: Dental cleanings at Banfield are performed under anesthesia for your catās safety and comfort. While your cat is under, they are closely monitored to ensure their vitals remain stable throughout the procedure. This makes it a safe and effective way to handle more complex dental care.
- Included in Wellness PlansĀ š³: Depending on the level of the wellness plan,Ā dental cleaningsĀ are included, typically on an annual basis. For cats that are more prone to dental issues or those showing early signs of gum disease, having a cleaning included in your plan can preventĀ expensive treatmentsĀ later.
š” Pro Tip: Even if your catās teeth look healthy to you, having a professional dental exam and cleaning once a year is crucial. Dental problems in cats can escalate quickly, and early intervention helps avoid more severe complications and costly treatments down the road.
Q: How does Banfield handle flea and tick prevention during a catās checkup, and what options are available?
During your catās checkup, flea and tick prevention is a key focus, especially if your cat spends time outdoors or is exposed to other pets. Banfield offers a range of options for preventing these pesky parasites:
- Flea and Tick ExamĀ šµļø: During the routine exam, your vet will check for signs ofĀ flea infestationsĀ orĀ ticksĀ on your cat. Flea dirt (tiny black specks) or visible ticks may indicate that your cat needs stronger prevention methods or immediate treatment.
- Preventive ProductsĀ š: Banfield provides recommendations forĀ flea and tick preventionĀ based on your catās lifestyle and health. Options often includeĀ topical treatments,Ā oral medications, orĀ flea collars. Popular brands such asĀ FrontlineĀ andĀ AdvantageĀ are commonly available and highly effective.
- Prescription Strength SolutionsĀ šŖ: If your cat has a severe flea or tick problem, Banfield may prescribe stronger medications that are not available over the counter. These prescription treatments often provideĀ longer-lasting protectionĀ and are tailored to your catās specific needs.
- Included in Wellness PlansĀ š¼: SomeĀ Optimum Wellness PlansĀ offer discounts or coverage forĀ flea and tick prevention products, making it easier and more affordable to keep your cat protected year-round. Banfield may also recommend aĀ year-round prevention planĀ if your cat lives in an area with a high risk of fleas or ticks.
š” Pro Tip: Prevention is always better (and cheaper!) than treatment. Stay on top of flea and tick prevention, even for indoor cats, as these parasites can easily hitch a ride on humans or other pets. Talk to your Banfield vet about the best prevention option for your catās lifestyle.