Find a vet
You will need to
register your kitten with a vet. A recommendation from a friend or neighbour is
a great place to start. Alternatively, you could phone around or visit the practice
before making your choice. It’s important to build a good relationship with
your vet. Take your kitten for a health check as soon as you can, as well as
any time that they are ill or injured.
Due to their small
body size and immature immune systems, a kitten’s health can deteriorate very
quickly, so take them straight to the vets if they are unwell. Discuss all
aspects of your cat’s care with your vet and consider taking out pet insurance
to ensure you can afford veterinary treatment should your cat be injured or
fall ill unexpectedly.
Vaccination
Kittens should be
vaccinated from eight or nine weeks of age and they require a second
vaccination from 12 weeks of age to protect them against some serious
infectious diseases. Even if your kitten is kept indoors, it is recommended
that they are vaccinated as they may be at risk of disease from other animals
in the household or infections that have accidentally been transferred in from
outside on an owner’s hands, shoes or clothes.Speak to your vet
to discuss your kitten’s specific vaccination needs.
Microchip
Cats Protection
recommends microchipping as the safest and simplest means of permanently
identifying your cat. A microchip carries a unique number linked to a database holding
your contact details, allowing you to be quickly traced should they stray and
be scanned. Be sure to get your kitten microchipped before letting them outside
for the first time.
Parasites
There are many
different types of parasites that can affect cats and some can be especially
harmful to kittens. Veterinary products to protect against fleas and worms are
effective and safe but it is important to seek advice from your vet and follow product
instructions carefully.
Neutering
Neutering – spaying
for females and castration for males – can be carried out at four months of age
or younger. eutered cats may live
healthier lives and it is the most humane way tostop unwanted pregnancies and
minimise the unwanted cat population. Neutering also prevents some cancers and
reduces straying, fighting and spraying.
Hazards
Kittens are very
inquisitive and love to explore, but be aware that there can be hazards around
the house. While you must always make sure your cat has a safe retreat where
they can hide, it’s important to kitten-proof the house to help keep your
kitten safe. Kittens can squeeze into the smallest of spaces and have a habit
of sleeping in peculiar places.
Block off any gaps
between cupboards, furniture and kitchen appliances. Screen off open fireplaces
and always supervise your kitten if you have lit a fire. Keep cupboards,
washing machines and tumble driers closed. Toilet lids should be kept down, to
avoid the risk of drowning or coming into contact with cleaning chemicals.
Ensure that hot liquids are never left unsupervised. Keep all cables and wires
securely protected and out of reach.
Kittens should
never have access to balconies and all external doors and windows should be
kept closed, or safely fenced over with strong wire mesh, ensuring there are no
gaps that your kitten could fall through. It is best to check kittens regularly
through the day to ensure they haven’t got up to any mischief.
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