Congratulations on adding a new kitten to your family! Welcoming a kitten into your home is an exciting and joyful experience. Ensuring they receive proper veterinary care early on is essential for their health and well-being, helping them grow into a happy and thriving adult cat.
Puppies should be dewormed starting around 2-3 weeks of age, with deworming treatments repeated every 2-4 weeks until they are 12 weeks old. This helps eliminate common intestinal parasites that can be passed from the mother dog to her litter. Your veterinarian will recommend an appropriate deworming schedule and medications based on your puppy's risk factors.
Kittens need to follow a routine vaccination schedule to protect them from serious and potentially life-threatening diseases during their early development. Since vaccination schedules can vary based on factors like breed, lifestyle, and health status, our team at Fishers Animal Hospital works closely with new cat owners to create a tailored plan that meets their kitten’s specific needs. By partnering with us, you can ensure your kitten stays on track with their vaccines while maintaining a schedule that’s convenient for you. We recommend the following vaccinations for cats:
Core Vaccinations for Kittens:
Non-Core Vaccinations:
Spaying or neutering your kitten is an essential step in ensuring their health and contributing to the well-being of your community. For your cat, these procedures reduce the risk of certain cancers and infections, as well as minimize behavioral issues like spraying, yowling, or aggression. For outdoor cats, spaying or neutering helps prevent the birth of unwanted litters, which can contribute to overpopulation and increase the number of stray cats in shelters or on the streets. It’s a simple yet powerful way to keep your kitten healthy while making a positive impact on the larger cat community.
We highly recommend spaying or neutering your kitten when the time is right, typically between 4-6 months of age. Our experienced veterinary team specializes in performing these procedures in a safe, stress-free environment. From pre-surgery preparation to post-surgery care, we ensure your kitten is comfortable and well-cared for every step of the way, giving you peace of mind and helping your beloved kitten live their best life.
Parasite prevention is an essential part of keeping your kitten healthy and comfortable. Young kittens are particularly vulnerable to parasites, which can cause serious health problems if left untreated. Common parasites like fleas, ticks, ear mites, and intestinal worms can lead to itching, discomfort, and more severe issues like anemia or malnutrition. Heartworms, while less common in cats, are still a concern and can be fatal if not prevented. Protecting your kitten from these pests is key to ensuring their well-being.
Our team offers a range of safe and effective treatments to keep your kitten parasite-free. Regular fecal exams are also recommended to detect internal parasites early. By staying proactive, you can help your kitten grow into a thriving, healthy adult cat.
Common Parasites to Protect Against:
Preparing your kitten for their first veterinary visit helps make the experience smooth and stress-free for both of you. Start by getting them comfortable with their carrier at home—place it in a familiar area, leave the door open, and add cozy bedding or toys to make it inviting. You can even practice short car rides in the carrier to help them get used to the motion and sounds. On the day of the visit, keep the environment calm and bring their favorite treats to help reduce anxiety.
If available, bring any relevant information about your kitten, such as vaccination records, and be ready to share details about their diet, behavior, and any concerns you may have. It’s also a good idea to bring along a favorite blanket or toy to help your kitten feel secure. At Fishers, we’re committed to making this first visit as positive as possible, and our team will be there to guide you every step of the way.
