Cat & Kitten

Cats & Kittens

Cats & kittens need lots of care and attention, although they are much more independent than dogs you will still need to make sure that they are fed regularly and that adequate toileting facilities are available to them if they rely on you to let them out each day!

General Information

Vaccinations
All cats and kittens should be vaccinated regularly, there are currently two main vaccinations to choose from (although there are others you may wish to discuss with your vet.) one is for Flu/Enteritis and the second combines Leukaemia/Flu/Enteritis. Leukaemia may also be given in a separate injection should you prefer. Kittens should be vaccinated from 9 weeks onwards, the second injection is then given at 12 weeks or 3 weeks after the first depending on what age your cat had its initial vaccination. Both cats and kittens will then need regular booster vaccinations in order to maintain this protection.

Worming
You will need to make sure that your kitten has been wormed regularly and it is important to check that this has been done by the breeder or organisation that you have received your kitten from. When you first bring her into the veterinary surgery your vet. will be able to advise you on worming. Older cats should be wormed at six monthly intervals, complete wormers are now available so that a single dose is all that needs to be given each time. If your cat regularly brings home little presents in the form of mice, birds, etc. it might be worth considering worming them more frequently usually every 3 months.

Neutering
Cats can be neutered at any time from 6 months onwards. It is definitely worth considering if you are not going to breed from them, as there can be several benefits. As well as ensuring that you don't end up with a litter of 8 kittens, all of which you will need to find homes for! The practice can assist you in finding help financially with the costs.

Dental Checks
Most people go to the dentist for regularly check ups but what you may not have thought about are your cats teeth. They can suffer many of the problems that us humans do if their oral hygiene isn't kept in check. Special toothbrushes and toothpaste's are both readily available at the surgery, (don't use your own toothpaste! we're not that alike). They can help avoid dental problems if used regularly, most cats will accept the idea of having their teeth brushed, and even if they don't there are products available that can go in their food. If necessary your vet. can provide a dental scale and polish, and extract any teeth that are rotten under general anaesthetic but prevention is always better than cure!

Weight Checks
Checks can be made at the practice in order to ensure that your cat is a healthy weight, she can be provided with a diet plan if necessary, there are even special reducing diets available for the overweight!

Insurance
Consideration should also be given to insuring your cat, veterinary fees can be expensive if the unexpected happens. There are a variety of insurance companies who will insure your cat, a selection is available by contacting the practice. Most of them will include an excess, usually £30 or £50; this is the amount you have to pay to each treatment so choose your policy carefully.

Fleas
Fleas can be a major problem for some pet owners, but by simply protecting your kitten or cat throughout the year you can virtually eliminate them. The myth that they are killed off during winter months doesn't take into account central heating! See our Flea Advice page for more comprehensive information.