Longevity
Life expectancy
With a life expectancy of about 12 to 14 years, the Czech Terrier can remain active for a long time if its lifestyle is well balanced. Prevention, maintaining a proper weight and regular care contribute directly to its longevity.
Build
A robust breed?
This breed is considered to be rather resilient and hardy. Its small size does not prevent it from being well built, but its robustness must be supported by serious breeding, an appropriate diet and monitoring for orthopedic or neurological problems known in the breed.
Watch points
What to watch for
Even if the breed is not known to be fragile, it remains prudent to monitor a few conditions already described in the Czech Terrier and to be attentive to the condition of the ears, joints and locomotion. Any change in balance, gait or joint comfort deserves veterinary advice.
Cerebellar ataxia : neurological condition that can lead to balance and coordination disorders, to be monitored seriously.
Scottie cramp : neuromuscular disorder observed in certain related lines, causing episodes of abnormal gait or stiffness.
Patellar luxation : displacement of the kneecap promoting lameness and locomotor discomfort, especially if orthopedic follow-up is insufficient.
Otitis : inflammation of the ear canal that can be promoted by drooping ears and insufficient ear care.
Climate
Cold and heat tolerance
The Czech Terrier tolerates both cold and heat moderately. Its long coat offers it some protection, but high temperatures as well as prolonged exposure to cold must be avoided, especially in the case of sustained effort.
Weight
Tendency to gain weight
Weight control is important in this small dog, especially since a tendency to become overweight can appear if portions are too generous or exercise insufficient. A measured ration, limited treats and regular outings help to maintain a correct silhouette.
Daily life
Good habits to keep it healthy
- Regularly check the ears and clean them if needed.
- Monitor the gait and consult in case of limping or loss of balance.
- Maintain a stable weight to protect the joints.
- Schedule an annual veterinary check-up, or more frequently if necessary.
Vaccination
Czech Terrier vaccines: vaccination schedule
Which vaccines for a Czech Terrier? Like all cats, the Czech Terrier receives essential vaccines from 8 weeks old: Typhus (panleukopenia) and Coryza. The kitten primary vaccination for Czech Terrier is given in several injections 4 weeks apart, followed by a first booster at 1 year, even if it lives in an apartment. Depending on its lifestyle (outdoor access, multi-cat household, shows, travel), your veterinarian may complete the protocol with vaccines against Feline leukemia (FeLV), Rabies and Chlamydiosis.
| Vaccine | Primary series | First booster | Then | Who for? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Typhus (panleukopenia)Core Feline panleukopenia (cat parvovirus) | 8 weeks · 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | All pets |
CoryzaCore Feline herpesvirus and calicivirus | 8 weeks · 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | All pets |
Feline leukemia (FeLV)Lifestyle-based Feline leukemia virus | 8 weeks · 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Outdoor cats, cats living in a group or in a cattery |
RabiesLifestyle-based Rabies | 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Mandatory for travel abroad, cat shows and most boarding kennels |
ChlamydiosisLifestyle-based Chlamydia felis (contagious conjunctivitis) | 8 weeks · 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Cats living in groups, catteries, show cats |
Adult Czech Terrier vaccine boosters are annual for cat flu and leukemia if it goes outdoors; for panleukopenia, a booster every three years is often sufficient after the first booster. Your veterinarian will adjust the schedule to your cat’s lifestyle.
Which boosters for your Czech Terrier?
Enter your companion’s age: we list the vaccines to do now and the next boosters.
Adopting well
Adopting a healthy Czech Terrier
Before breeding or adoption, it is wise to inquire about lineage history and to request serious veterinary follow-up. Particular attention can be paid to the locomotor system, to hearing of the gait, and to the absence of abnormal neurological signs.
This information is provided for guidance only and does not replace a veterinarian’s advice. If you have any concerns about your pet’s health, consult a professional.
