Bringing a new kitten into your home will be life-changing. Cats can live a long time, so you'll have a new family member your kids can grow up with. To ensure your kitten has the best chance at a long and healthy life, you'll want to start vet visits right away. Whether you bought your kitten from a breeder or rescued a stray from the street, schedule a visit to a veterinary clinic as soon as you bring it home. Here's why this is important.
Your New Kitten Is Checked For Parasites And Infections
Infections and parasites can be a problem in kittens, especially stray kitties. A vet can test for these problems and begin prompt treatment so your kitten feels better and doesn't have long-term consequences. Your vet also checks for signs of other diseases so you don't have to worry about the kitten bringing something home that could make your family or other pets sick too. If you already have cats living in your house, you may want to take your cat directly to the veterinary clinic before bringing it home for the first time so you don't put your other cats' health at risk.
The Breed And Age Are Identified
If you bought your kitten from a breeder or from a friend, you'll find out the history, breed, and age. If you rescue a stray kitten, you don't know anything about it. Knowing the age is important because if the kitty is very young, it will need special care. The kitten may have been separated from the mother before it was fully weaned. Your vet can teach you how to care for your kitten no matter what its age since it will depend on you for its care from the moment you bring the kitty home.
Vaccinations Are Begun
Your kitten may already have the first round of vaccinations, but if not, you'll want to have them started on the schedule recommended by your vet. The vaccinations may be given on the first visit to the clinic, but if not, you'll want to follow the vet's recommendation on when to start the vaccinations so your kitten has the best chance at a healthy life.
Your Vet Helps With Feeding And Socializing Choices
If you already have cats, then you know how to care for them, but you may not know the best way to care for a kitten. Your vet can teach you the right feeding routine to establish, the best food to buy, and provide tips for integrating the kitten into a home with other cats or dogs. The great thing about a kitten is you have the chance to help form their personality. Proper socialization could reward you with a cat that likes to be loved on and handled rather than being aloof or quick to scratch and bite.
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