Health Topics

Kitten Care

Newly adopted kittens should visit a veterinarian for a complete physical exam as soon as possible. We will look for fleas, check for intestinal parasites and draw blood for FeLV and FIV testing. Please bring a stool sample with you on your first visit. This helps ensure that your new kitty is healthy and that disease is not transmitted to other animals or humans in your house.

Kitten vaccines start at 6-8 weeks of age and are given every 3-4 weeks. The last vaccine in the kitten series should be given after 16 weeks of age. We follow the AAFP’s vaccination guidelines.

Kitten vaccines include:

  • Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis Calicivirus Panleukopenia (FVRCP) 
  • Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV)
  • Rabies

We will also discuss nutrition, basic kitten care, and timing of spay/neuter surgery if not already done.

How often will my kitten need to visit the Cat Clinic?

Generally, kittens will come in every 3- 4 weeks beginning at 8 weeks of age until they are about 16 weeks of age.

What's the best way to get rid of fleas?

In a kitten that is older than 8 weeks of age, Revolution or Revolution Plus flea products can be used. Younger kittens may require bathing with dawn dish soap and removing the fleas by hand.

What is included in the first kitten visit?

During the first visit we will ask questions to determine how your kitten is doing at home. We will perform a physical exam, give vaccines as needed, draw blood for a FIV/Felv test (usually around 12 weeks of age), and give a dewormer. We can also spend time answering any questions you may have about kitten care.