1. Initial Health Checks and Veterinary Visit

• Importance of the First Vet Visit:

  • Your kitten's first veterinary visit is crucial for establishing a baseline of health and beginning their preventative care journey.  Call us and set up an appointment and we'd be ecstatic to meet and care your new fur baby!

  • We'll assess your kitten's overall health, identify any pre-existing conditions, and create a personalized care plan.

• What to Expect During the Visit:

  • Comprehensive Physical Examination: The veterinarian should perform a thorough head-to-tail examination, checking:

    • Eyes, Ears, and Nose: For signs of infection, discharge, or abnormalities.

    • Mouth and Teeth: For dental health, alignment, and any oral issues.

    • Coat and Skin: For parasites (fleas, ticks, mites), skin conditions, or lumps.

    • Heart and Lungs: Listening for murmurs, arrhythmias, or respiratory problems.

    • Abdomen: Palpating for organ size, discomfort, or abnormalities.

    • Musculoskeletal System: Checking for lameness or pain.

    • Genitals: Assessing for abnormalities or signs of infection.

    • Weight Assessment: To monitor growth and ensure healthy development.

  • Fecal Examination:

    • You might be asked to provide a fresh stool sample.

    • This test is vital for detecting common intestinal parasites (e.g., roundworms, hookworms, coccidia, giardia), which are very common in kittens and can impact their growth and health.

    • Deworming medication will be administered if parasites are found.

  • FIV/FeLV Testing:

    • Blood tests to screen for Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) and Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) are highly recommended, especially if your kitten's history is unknown or they will be exposed to other cats.

    • These are serious, contagious viral diseases that can significantly impact a cat's health and lifespan.

  • Discussion of Vaccination Schedule: Your veterinarian should outline the appropriate vaccination schedule based on your kitten's age, lifestyle, and local regulations.

  • Parasite Prevention Discussion: Recommendations for monthly heartworm, flea, and tick prevention should be provided.

  • Nutrition and Feeding Guidance: Personalized advice on the best diet, feeding frequency, and portion sizes for your growing kitten.

  • Behavioral Advice: Opportunity to discuss litter box habits, scratching, socialization, and any initial behavioral concerns.

  • Spay/Neuter Consultation: Discuss information regarding the ideal timing and benefits of spaying or neutering your kitten.

  • Microchipping Discussion: Information on the benefits of microchipping for permanent identification.

• Preparing for Your Kitten's First Visit:

  • Gather Information: Be prepared to provide details about your kitten's history (where they came from, any known health issues, current diet).

  • Bring a Fecal Sample: A fresh sample (within 24 hours) is ideal.

  • Secure Carrier: Transport your kitten in a safe and comfortable carrier. This ensures their safety during travel and helps reduce stress or Call Critters Animal S

  • List Your Questions: Write down any questions or concerns you have beforehand to ensure you don't forget anything during the appointment.

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2. Kitten Vaccination Schedule

• Kittens can be susceptible to diseases as early as 2 weeks – 1 month of age

·  Initial Core Vaccinations:

• FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia):

  • This combination vaccine protects against common and serious feline diseases.

  • Typically given in a series of 3-4 doses, starting around 6-8 weeks of age, with subsequent boosters every 3-4 weeks until 16-20 weeks old.

• Rabies: A legally required vaccination in most areas, protecting against a fatal viral disease.

  • Usually given as a single dose around 12-16 weeks of age, followed by boosters as recommended by local regulations (typically annually or every three years).

·  Non-Core Vaccinations (Based on Lifestyle and Risk):

• Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV): Recommended for kittens who will have outdoor access or live with FeLV-positive cats.

  • Typically given in a series of two doses, 3-4 weeks apart, starting around 8-12 weeks of age.

• Other non-core vaccines may be recommended based on your veterinarian's assessment of your kitten's individual risk factors.

·  Importance of Completing the Series: Each booster is crucial for building robust immunity. Do not skip doses, even if your kitten seems healthy.

• ·  Adult Boosters: After the initial kitten series, your veterinarian will recommend a schedule for adult booster vaccinations to maintain protection.

 

3. Nutrition & Feeding

·  High-Quality Kitten Food:

• Choose a commercial kitten food formulated for growth, providing the necessary nutrients for their rapid development. Look for brands that meet AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) standards.

• Kitten food should be higher in protein, fat, and certain vitamins and minerals compared to adult cat food.

·  Feeding Frequency:

• Young kittens (8-12 weeks): 3-4 meals per day.

• Older kittens (3-6 months): 2-3 meals per day.

• Once your kitten reaches adulthood (around 1 year), feeding can transition to 1-2 meals per day.

·  Portion Control: Follow the feeding guidelines on the food packaging, adjusting as needed to maintain a healthy weight. Avoid overfeeding, which can lead to obesity.

·  Wet vs. Dry Food:

• Dry Food: Convenient, helps with dental health, and can be left out for free-feeding (though scheduled meals are often preferred).

• Wet Food: Provides essential hydration, can be more palatable, and may help with urinary tract health. A combination of both is often ideal.

·  Fresh Water: Always provide access to fresh, clean water in multiple bowls.

·  Avoid Human Food: Many human foods are harmful or toxic to kittens (e.g., chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, dairy). Stick to kitten-specific food and treats.

 

 

4. Heartworm, Flea, & Tick Prevention

·  Heartworms:

• Prevention is Key: Heartworm disease is a serious and potentially fatal condition spread by mosquitoes. While less common in cats than dogs, it does occur.

• Monthly Preventatives: Discuss with your veterinarian the best monthly heartworm preventative for your kitten, often combined with flea prevention. These are typically topical or oral medications.

·  Fleas:

• Signs of Fleas: Excessive scratching, "flea dirt" (small black specks) in fur, visible fleas.

• Prevention: Monthly topical or oral flea preventatives are highly effective. Treat all pets in the household to prevent re-infestation.

• Environmental Control: Regular vacuuming and washing bedding can help reduce flea populations in your home.

·  Ticks:

• Risk: Ticks can transmit various diseases to cats. While cats are not the primary hosts for some common tick-borne diseases, they can still be affected.

• Prevention: Many flea preventatives also offer tick control.

• Inspection: If your kitten spends time outdoors, routinely check them for ticks, especially after walks. If you find a tick, remove it carefully with tweezers.

 

5. Spay & Neuter

·  Benefits of Spaying (Females) and Neutering (Males):

• Population Control: Prevents unwanted litters and contributes to reducing the number of homeless cats.

• Health Benefits:

  • Spaying: Significantly reduces the risk of mammary (breast) cancer and completely eliminates the risk of uterine infections (pyometra) and ovarian tumors.

  • Neutering: Eliminates the risk of testicular cancer and reduces the incidence of prostate problems.

• Behavioral Benefits:

  • Spaying: Eliminates heat cycles, which can be messy and attract unwanted male cats. Reduces behaviors like vocalization and roaming.

  • Neutering: Reduces spraying (marking territory with urine), roaming, fighting with other cats, and certain forms of aggression.

·  Timing:

• Typically recommended around 5-6 months of age, before sexual maturity.

• Early spay/neuter (as young as 8 weeks) is also performed safely by some veterinarians, especially in shelter settings. Discuss the best timing for your kitten with your vet.

 

6. Training, Socialization, & Mental Health

·  Litter Box Training:

• Start Early: Kittens typically learn litter box use quickly.

• Placement: Place litter boxes in quiet, easily accessible locations.

• Type of Litter: Offer a fine-grained, unscented clumping litter initially.

• Cleanliness: Scoop at least once daily and thoroughly clean the box weekly to prevent aversion.

• Number of Boxes: Rule of thumb is one litter box per cat plus one extra.

·  Positive Reinforcement Training:

• Reward Good Behavior: Use treats, praise, and gentle petting to reinforce desired behaviors (e.g., using the scratching post, coming when called).

• Avoid Punishment: Punishment is ineffective and can damage your bond with your kitten.

·  Scratching Post Training:

• Provide Options: Offer various types of scratching posts (vertical, horizontal, cardboard, sisal, carpeted) to find what your kitten prefers.

• Encouragement: Place posts in prominent areas and gently guide your kitten's paws onto them. Reward scratching on the post.

·  Socialization:

• Exposure: Gently expose your kitten to various sights, sounds, people, and other well-behaved pets (if appropriate and safe) during their critical socialization period (up to 16 weeks).

• Positive Experiences: Ensure all new experiences are positive and calm to build confidence.

• Handling: Regularly handle your kitten gently to get them accustomed to being touched, which helps with grooming and veterinary visits.

·  Mental Stimulation:

• Interactive Toys: Provide a variety of toys (feather wands, puzzle feeders, crinkle balls) to keep them engaged.

• Playtime: Dedicate daily playtime sessions to burn energy and strengthen your bond.

• Vertical Space: Cats love to climb! Provide cat trees, shelves, or perches.

• Window Perches: Allow your kitten to observe the outside world.

·  Addressing Behavioral Issues:

• If you notice concerning behaviors (e.g., aggression, excessive fear, inappropriate urination), consult with your veterinarian. They can rule out medical causes and provide behavioral guidance or refer you to a feline behaviorist.

 

7. Safe Environment at Home/Pet Proofing Your Home

·  Designated Safe Environment:

• Initially, provide your kitten with a small, quiet, and secure "base camp" room (e.g., a bathroom or spare bedroom) with their food, water, litter box, bed, and toys. This helps them acclimate gradually.

·  Supervision: Always supervise your kitten, especially when they are exploring new areas of your home.

·  Secure Windows and Doors: Ensure all windows have secure screens and that doors are closed to prevent escape.

·  Electrical Cords: Secure or cover electrical cords to prevent chewing and electrocution.

·  Small Objects: Remove small objects that could be swallowed and cause choking or intestinal blockage (e.g., string, rubber bands, hair ties, small toys).

·  Cleaning Supplies and Medications: Store all household cleaners, chemicals, and human medications securely out of reach in high, locked cabinets.

·  Appliances: Keep appliance doors (washer, dryer, refrigerator) closed. Always check inside before closing or operating.

·  Garbage Cans: Use secure, lid-covered garbage cans to prevent your kitten from rummaging through potentially harmful waste.

·  Holiday Hazards: Be aware of holiday-specific dangers like tinsel, ornaments, holiday plants (lilies are highly toxic!), and unattended candles.

Vaccinations and Preventative Care

·  Secure Cabinets: Use child-proof latches on cabinets containing hazardous materials or breakable items.

·  Block Off Restricted Areas: Use baby gates or close doors to areas you don't want your kitten to access.

·  Remove Dangling Cords and Blinds: Secure cords from blinds and curtains to prevent strangulation.

·  Heavy Objects: Secure unstable furniture or heavy objects that could fall on your kitten.

·  Toilet Lids: Keep toilet lids down to prevent accidental drowning or drinking contaminated water.

·  Loose Screens: Repair or replace any loose window screens.

·  Water Sources: Be mindful of bathtubs, sinks, or buckets of water that a kitten could fall into.

 

8. Poisonous Plants

·  Highly Toxic Plants (Partial List - this is not exhaustive!): Even small ingestions can be life-threatening.

• Lilies (all parts): Extremely toxic and can cause acute kidney failure.

• Sago Palm: Highly toxic, causing liver failure.

• Tulips and Hyacinths (bulbs especially): Can cause severe gastrointestinal upset, drooling, and cardiac issues.

• Azaleas and Rhododendrons: Can cause vomiting, diarrhea, cardiac issues, and central nervous system depression.

• Oleander: Highly toxic to the heart.

• Castor Bean: Contains ricin, which is highly toxic.

• Marijuana: Can cause depression, vomiting, tremors, and dilated pupils.

• Certain Mushrooms: Some wild mushrooms are highly toxic.

·  Moderately Toxic Plants: Can cause gastrointestinal upset, skin irritation, or other mild to moderate symptoms.

• Aloe Vera: Can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and tremors.

• Pothos (Devil's Ivy): Contains calcium oxalates, causing oral irritation, drooling, and vomiting.

• Philodendron: Similar to Pothos.

• Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane): Can cause intense oral irritation, drooling, and difficulty swallowing.

• English Ivy: Can cause gastrointestinal upset and dermatitis.

• Chrysanthemum: Can cause gastrointestinal upset and skin irritation.

• Peace Lily: Similar to Pothos and Philodendron, causing oral irritation.

·  Recommendations:

• Research All Plants: Before bringing any new plant into your home, verify its safety for pets.

• Remove or Restrict Access: If you have any potentially toxic plants, either remove them from your home or place them in an area your kitten cannot access.

• Be Vigilant: Kittens are curious. Even non-toxic plants can cause mild upset if ingested in large quantities.