VACCINATIONS:
An adult cat should be vaccinated against Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia, (FVRCP) and Feline Leukemia Virus (FELV). At 12 weeks of age, the kitten receives a Rabies vaccine (RV) which is good for one year. All vaccines must be boostered yearly except the Rabies vaccine, which is boostered every three years after the second booster is given.
FELINE LEUKEMIA/FELINE IMMUNODEFFICIENCY TESTING:
This test is done on the cat's first visit to find Feline Leukemia virus or Feline Immunosuppression virus (FIV) carriers. A vaccination for FELV is not done if the cat tests positive, and a vaccination against FIV is not available. Both diseases are fatal and there is no cure for either virus at this time.
FELINE INFECTIOUS PERITONITIS (FIP):
This is a serious viral disease of cats. While cats of all ages are susceptible, kittens and elderly cats are most likely to become infected. The virus spreads from cat to cat via feces, urine or oral and nasal secretions, and is either inhaled or ingested. Kittens that live in a multi-cat household or that go outside are at highest risk of infection. Fortunately, a preventative vaccination is available.
PARASITE CHECKS:
A stool sample is checked on the cat's first visit and then every 6 months to insure there are no Hookworms, Roundworms or other intestinal parasites. Tapeworms in cats may not be identified on this exam, however, so it is important to report any worms seen to the veterinary hospital. Any necessary dewormings will be done by either injection or orally, depending on the parasite.
FELINE HEARTWORM:
This infection has been found in cats. A monthly preventative is now available. Please ask us for more information.
NUTRITION:
We recommend that kittens should be fed a high quality diet, for example, Hill's Science Diet Feline Growth. Cat's diet should consist of 50% dry food and 50% canned food.
TOOTH CARE:
Light brushing or application of a tartar control paste or liquid should be started to avoid tooth loss and dental disease. Twice a week application is usually enough. Dental chews are also available as an alternative to brushing.
SPAYING AND NEUTERING:
Spaying the female and neutering the male should be done in the 4-6 month old cat. This will prevent any unwanted pregnancy as well as help to avoid negative behavior such as spraying or territorial aggression.
Click on the links below to get more information on kitten care