Just as the needs of infants are different than those of teen-agers, kittens need different care than their older counterparts. Because of their size, they are much more susceptible to dehydration and other ailments. While some conditions may only cause discomfort in older animals, in young animals they can actually cause death.
When should my kitten have its first check up?
New kittens should receive their first check up 3-5 days after arriving at your home. This gives them several days to adjust to their new surroundings and you, as their new owner, a chance to observe them for any problems. Of course, if you see problems, have us check these out immediately. Bring any vaccine history or medical records along so we can review them and begin a medical health program for your pet. Also bring a stool specimen so we can check for internal parasites.
What are vaccines and what do they do?
Vaccines are given to young kittens to stimulate their immune systems to form antibodies and protect against disease. A young kitten will receive some protection through the mother’s milk, but this is only temporary. A series of vaccines is necessary to ensure that your kitten’s immunity is sufficient to protect your pet against disease.
When should my kitten begin a health program?
Exams and vaccines should generally begin at eight weeks of age. They are repeated at three to four week intervals until at least 16 weeks of age. We strongly recommend checking your kitten for Feline Leukemia and Feline AIDS (not related to human HIV), prior to beginning a health program. If your kitten has one of these diseases, this may have an effect on your decisions concerning the health of your pet. Periodic checks for intestinal parasites should also be performed at this time.
We also recommend some cats be placed on heartworm preventative. Surprisingly enough, indoor cats are susceptible to this disease, which is not readily treatable in cats.
What vaccines will my kitten receive?
The main vaccine is known as Feline Distemper (FVRCP) vaccine. This vaccine protects against the following diseases:
- Panleukopenia—characterized by fever, poor appetite, vomiting and diarrhea and may be fatal.
- Rhinotracheitis—highly contagious respiratory disease and is characterized by sneezing, fever and inflamed eyes.
- Calicivirus—highly contagious respiratory disease similar to rhinotracheitis.
- Pneumonitis (Chlamydia)—another respiratory infection that may cause pneumonia.
Rabies—your kitten will also receive a rabies vaccine at 3-4 months of age. Rabies is always fatal and is a public health concern.
Other vaccines which may be recommended for your pet include:
- Feline Leukemia—may exist in a non-symptomatic carrier state. It is generally fatal if active and is characterized by anemia, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. It is highly contagious. A blood test is required before vaccinating for this disease. This vaccine is recommended for kittens up to one year of age who may be at risk of exposure, and then annually depending on the risk of exposure if your cat goes outdoors.
What types of parasites are of concern?
There are many types of intestinal parasites. This includes roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms and coccidia. Many kittens will have some type of parasite and these are treated routinely. Untreated intestinal parasites can cause diarrhea, anemia, poor growth and even death and the most common intestinal parasites found in cats are contagious to people, especially young children.
Heartworms can also have a devastating effect on cats depending on where you live and your cat’s lifestyle. Your cat may need to be on heartworm prevention. Please discuss this options with us when you are in the office for a visit.
What can I do to ensure good health for my pet?
It is important to feed your kitten a high quality kitten food. Avoid feeding table food as it can cause intestinal problems and picky eaters. Keep plenty of fresh water available at all times.
What about spaying or neutering my pet?
Altered pets live longer, happier lives. If you are not going to be breeding your cat (which is the case for most animals), we recommend spaying or neutering by six months of age. Your pet will generally have a better temperament and have fewer health problems if this is done at an early age. Also, as a responsible pet owner, you will not be contributing to the over-population of unwanted pets that are euthanized and destroyed each year.
You have already taken the first step towards the good health of your kitten by visiting your veterinarian. Routine veterinary care, annual vaccinations and physical exams can all help ensure a healthy pet. It is far less expensive and much easier to prevent disease than it is to treat it.
Enjoy your new kitten and friend. They don’t ask for much, and give so much in return. If at any time you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to call us.