New Kitten Advice
Vaccinations
Vaccination protocol for
INDOOR
- 6-8 weeks Feline Enteritis, Herpes & Calici
- 10-12 weeks Feline Enteritis, Herpes & Calici
- 14-16 weeks Feline Enteritis, Herpes & Calici
ADULTS: Annual F3 Boosters are required to maintain immunity
OUTDOOR
- 6-8 weeks Feline Enteritis, Herpes & Calici
- 10-12 weeks Feline Enteritis, Herpes & Calici & Feline AIDS
- 2 WEEKS AFTER 2ND Vaccination Feline AIDS booster
- 14-16 weeks Feline Enteritis, Herpes & Calici & Feline AIDS
Parasite Prevention
Worming
Intestinal worms are very common in kittens and cats, so regular worming is important as they can also transmit it to humans. Many worms are invisible to the naked eye, so worming tablets should be administered regardless of whether worms are seen in the faeces.
Furthermore, roundworms are a significant human health hazard causing permanent sight loss in a number of children in Australia every year. We recommend using an all wormer, which
Heartworm Prevention
Heartworm is transmitted between cats via mosquitoes. Infection with heartworm is a potentially fatal disease where treatment can be expensive and not always successful. We have a topical product which covers heartworm in cats available for purchase from our practice.
Flea control
It is better to use a regular flea prevention treatment rather than letting an infestation develop as all pets will be exposed to fleas at some stage.
Remember that all pets in the household must be treated.
For
Desexing
We recommend all pets other than those intended for breeding be de-sexed as Adolescents. De-sexed pets are less likely to roam and fight. It significantly reduces the likelihood of certain illnesses such as mammary tumours. The best age for de-sexing is 6-12 months of age and Eltham Veterinary Practice offers a free consultation to assess the ideal timing. There is no advantage in allowing females to have a heat or litter first.
Diet
Giving your kitten the best nutritional start in life is essential given that they grow so quickly during the first 12 months. Our healthcare team can give you specific advice on feeding your kitten, as a good quality balanced diet is essential for a long and healthy life.
Check list for your new Kitten
A safe haven – A bed, a box or a nook – cats like small spaces and need a space of their own that they can retreat to. You can even use their cat carrier which will help desensitise the experience when they come to the vet. There is merit in having a day bed and a night bed as cats tend to follow the sun!
Cat Carrier – As
Towel & blanket – Having a dedicated towel & blanket for your cat provides them more comfort when having to take them anywhere. The towel should live in the bottom of the cat carrier, and the blanket is for draping the carrier to create a safe dark nook for them inside the carrier.
Two Bowls – One bowl dedicated to your
Kitty litter tray, tray liners and kitty litter – These are essential when house training your cat to go to the toilet inside. Knowing which litter tray and kitty litter to use is hard to define, as some cats don’t like a big lip on the tray, some may not like the litter you use and some prefer 2 trays. The key is to try a few and not to buy in excess until you know which one your cat prefers!
Scratching post – Cats have a natural need to claw things, better it
Toys – Cats love to play at all hours of the day, having toys there will keep them entertained whilst also having them practice their natural instincts. Things such as boxes, scrunched up foil or paper can be a hit.
Collar & ID tag– In case your kitten goes on an adventure, it’s recommended they have a collar and ID tag with your contact phone number/s in case they are found.
Brush – Depending on the coat, cats may need regular brushing to help them groom themselves. Making brushing a regular part of the day will not only help your kitten get used to the routine and cement the habit with yourself, but it’s a great bonding experience for you both.
UrineOff/ Stain Neutraliser – Useful in removing the stain and odour if there is an accident in your household, and it can be used on all surfaces. If there is an accident, don’t clean it up with any products containing ammonia as it smells like cat wee to cats!