What are the core vaccine requirements for kittens? - Ridgetowne Animal Clinic
The core vaccines for kittens include the feline distemper vaccine (also known as FVRCP, which stands for respiratory complex vaccines), the feline leukemia vaccine for kittens or young adult cats under one year of age, and the rabies vaccine.
When should I get my kitten spayed or neutered? - Ridgetowne Animal Clinic
It's best to spay or neuter your kitten around or before six months of age. For female kittens, spaying should be done before their first heat cycle, which typically occurs around six months. After the 16 to 20-week visit, you can schedule the procedure. Neutering male kittens should also be done around this time to prevent potential behavioral issues, such as urine spraying, from developing.
What kind of preventive care does my kitten need? - Ridgetowne Animal Clinic
Vaccinations are crucial for preventative care. Heartworm prevention, flea and tick prevention, and a single-dose topical application for parasites, ear mites, etc., are also recommended. Fecal screenings are conducted as part of preventative wellness care to check for any intestinal parasites that may require additional treatment.
What vaccinations does my kitten need? - Ridgetowne Animal Clinic
Typically, kittens receive the feline distemper vaccine, which protects against respiratory diseases, as a core vaccination at the 12-week visit. The rabies vaccine is also given at this time. It's recommended that all kittens receive the feline leukemia vaccine, regardless of whether they will be indoor or outdoor cats, as there are theories that the vaccine can offer lifelong protection.
How often does my kitten need to go to the veterinarian? - Ridgetowne Animal Clinic
It's recommended that your kitten has their first visit around five to six weeks of age or whenever you adopt them. After that, they should visit the veterinarian every three weeks for physical exams, intestinal parasite screenings, and vaccinations until they're about 16 to 20 weeks old. After that, annual visits are recommended.
What should I ask my veterinarian at my kitten’s first appointment? - Ridgetowne Animal Clinic
It depends on your specific questions and concerns. Common questions include topics such as behavior, feeding, vaccine protocols, and heartworm, flea, and tick prevention. If this is your first time caring for a kitten, your veterinarian will cover all relevant topics. It's a good idea to write down your questions beforehand, so you don't forget them during the appointment. Your veterinarian wants to ensure you leave the appointment feeling informed and empowered to care for your kitten.
What should I expect at my kitten’s first veterinary visit? - Ridgetowne Animal Clinic
At the first veterinary visit, your kitten will receive a physical exam. Your veterinarian will look for any congenital, genetic, or developmental issues, as well as check for external parasites like fleas or ticks. They will assess the quality of your kitten's coat, listen to their heart and lungs, and conduct a general assessment. An intestinal parasite screen, or fecal, will be conducted to check for worms. A small blood sample will be taken during the first or second visit to screen for feline leukemia virus or feline AIDS, which can be contracted from the environment or their mother.
What if my dog has worms and they go untreated? - Haywood Road Animal Hospital
If your dog has worms, their overall health can be significantly affected. They may experience blood loss, become very lethargic, lose weight, and suffer from chronic gastrointestinal issues. It is crucial to seek veterinary help if you suspect your dog has worms.
How long can worms last inside my dog? - Haywood Road Animal Hospital
Depending on the type of worm, they can last for several months or even longer. However, it is expected that you would notice some external signs of worm infestation by that point.
How common are worms in dogs? - Haywood Road Animal Hospital
Worms are extremely common in dogs, especially in puppies that have not been dewormed enough or stray dogs. However, even pets that have been in a good home for years can develop worms if they are not on a prevention treatment.