Kitten Care
Getting a kitten is an exciting time but there are certain essentials you will need to know to ensure your new kitten remains fit and healthy. We are your best partner in keeping your kitten healthy. We have plenty of knowledge and experience and will be happy to offer you advice and guidance in caring for your new kitten.
Congratulations on the addition of your new family member! We can’t wait to meet your new kitten. We look forward to welcoming your new kitten into our family as well!
Pre-Kitten Planning
When you pick up your kitten, remember to ask what and when he or she was fed. Replicate that schedule until your first Kitten visit with us. We will discuss your kitten’s breed, anticipated lifestyle and nutritional needs with you during your first kitten visit.
Pre-kitten planning is important. It is best to purchase supplies (for example, food and water bowls, chew toys, grooming supplies, bedding, collar and leash, identification tag, crate and gates) before you bring your kitten home. Pre-kitten shopping allows you to shop for supplies without the pressure of the kitten immediately needing the items.
For the first few days, keep your kitten in one room with her carrier, her bed, food bowls, litter box and toys. Cats thrive on routine so feed your new kitten at the same time and in the same place each day.
You’ll need to kitten-proof the area where he or she will spend most of his or her time the first few months. Once you think you’ve completely kitten-proofed, lie on the floor and look around once more to get a kitten’s-eye view. If you have children, please remind them not to overwhelm the kitten the first day.
Your Kitten’s First Wellness Exam
When you bring your kitten home, please schedule an appointment with one of our veterinarians for your kitten’s first wellness exam. This initial visit’s exam includes a thorough “nose-to-tail” physical and dental evaluation, allowing us to establish an individualized wellness care program for your kitten going forward, including proper vaccinations, parasite protection and proper nutrition.
Your kitten’s first exam will give us the opportunity to establish a relationship with you and your new kitten, and to learn your expectations as a client and a pet owner. It is the best time to address all of your questions and/or concerns about your new kitten and kitten care in general.
When visiting with your new kitten for the first time, please bring the following with you:
- Your kitten in a carrier
- Any prior health records that you received when you brought your kitten home, such as history of vaccines, deworming, neutering, past medical history, etc.