Your Kitten’s General Wellbeing

From the very first weeks you can help your cat’s fur to shine. Use a brush with soft metal bristles and a rubber base, or a soft brush. Groom your kitten every day if it is long-haired and two or three times a week otherwise. It will love you for it and purr with pleasure to say thanks.

Just like us, our cats need dental care too. Many cats suffer from dental problems even at an early age. This is difficult to avoid, as most cats will not relish having their teeth brushed. Some diets have been specially developed to reduce the incidence of dental disease. Now’s the time to get your kitten used to being handled and having their mouth checked. It is also best to have your vet check your cat’s teeth on an annual basis.

There are special nail-cutters for claws which get too long, your vet will be able to let you know which clippers are suitable and how much to cut. Remember, any surface that is too hot for you to touch is too hot for kitten’s feet. Something to be aware of on really hot days.

Check ears regularly, if they have black wax in them consult your vet, there may be ear mites lurking in there.

Occasionally cats will suffer from a chronic condition, meaning something that is long-lasting, often for life. Examples are osteoarthritis, epilepsy, kidney disease and hypertension to name a few. Fortunately, modern animal pharmacology has developed highly effective medications that can help relieve the pain and symptoms associated with these conditions. Your vet will diagnose any concerns during regular check-ups, or if you bring your cat in having noticed something strange.

Vaccinations generally start around 6-8 weeks of age. An initial kitten course needs to be completed (usually by around 16 weeks of age) and then booster vaccinations are required for ongoing protection.

Gentle monthly dosing with NexGard COMBO can help control fleas, ticks, lice and worms including tape and lungworm. If your kitten is less than 8 weeks of age then you may want to try FRONTLINE Spray as this can be used on kittens from 2 days of age to help manage fleas. Stay on top of flea and worm treatment as it is easier to prevent than it is to eliminate an infestation.

Adapting the feeding program as your kitten grows helps to prevent obesity, joint problems and other diseases; such as diabetes later in life. Speak to your veterinarian regarding any advice you need on the type of food during the different life-stages of your cat.

Microchipping is generally done at an early age, your kitten may already be microchipped when you acquire it (remember to update changes such as new owner details and change of address as soon as possible). Ask your veterinarian for further details regarding microchipping at your kitten’s first check-up.

Even a normally placid cat can become quite frantic whilst being transported. Always use a secure well-ventilated cat carrier, ideally one that has an opening at the top and at one end. It is much easier to lift a scared cat out of this type of carrier.