Welcoming Your New Kitten
Bringing a new kitten into your home is an exciting experience. During the first year of life, kittens undergo rapid development and require special attention to ensure they grow into healthy adult cats. At My Pets Veterinary Urgent Care and Wellness, Dr. Sadie Rath specializes in kitten care.
The First Veterinary Visit
Schedule a veterinary appointment within the first week of bringing your kitten home. We'll:
- Perform a complete physical examination
- Check for congenital abnormalities
- Assess parasite status
- Begin vaccination protocols
- Discuss nutrition and care recommendations
Vaccination Timeline for Kittens
- 6-8 weeks: First FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia) vaccine
- 10-12 weeks: Second FVRCP vaccine
- 14-16 weeks: Third FVRCP vaccine and Rabies vaccine
- 12-16 weeks: Final Rabies booster
Parasite Prevention
Kittens are susceptible to internal and external parasites. We recommend:
- Deworming at 2, 4, 6, and 8 weeks of age
- Fecal examination to detect parasites
- Monthly flea and tick prevention
- Heartworm testing at 6 months
Nutrition for Growing Kittens
Kittens require specialized nutrition to support growth and development:
- High-quality kitten formula food
- More frequent meals (3-4 times daily until 6 months)
- Adequate protein and calories for growth
- Gradual transition to adult food at 12 months
Behavioral Development and Training
The first few months are crucial for behavioral development. Provide:
- Safe spaces and hiding areas
- Age-appropriate toys
- Scratching posts
- Litter box training
- Socialization with people and safe animals
Spaying/Neutering
We recommend spaying or neutering kittens between 4-6 months of age. This prevents unwanted litters and reduces the risk of certain health problems.
Microchipping
Consider microchipping your kitten at their spay/neuter appointment. This permanent identification method can help reunite you if your kitten ever becomes lost.
Schedule Your Kitten's First Appointment
Give your new kitten the best start in life. Call us at (425) 380-5880 to schedule a comprehensive kitten wellness exam. Our compassionate team will answer all your questions and ensure your kitten receives the best possible care.
