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WHAT YOUR CAT NEEDS

What Your Cat Needs

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Cats should be examined annually to be sure they are in good health and updated to maintain their good health.  Also, they should be examined anytime they are not feeling well.

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VACCINES

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  • FVRCP VACCINE Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia (“distemper vaccine”). Starting at 6-8 weeks of age, kittens are vaccinated every 3 weeks until they reach 16 weeks of age. This vaccine is then given yearly or every 3 years , depending on your cats risk. These viruses are easily spread through the air and on hands and clothes, therefore we recommend the vaccine for all cats.

  • RABIES VACCINE This is given at 16 weeks of age, boostered at 1 year and then given every 3 years. This fatal disease can be spread from wildlife to pets to humans. This vaccine is required by law in Florida at 16 weeks of age.

  • FELINE LEUKEMIA/FELINE IMMUNODEFICIENCY TEST (Felv/FIV) This is recommended for all kittens on their first visit to establish whether they currently have these viruses. This test should be repeated in 1-2 months. Leukemia virus may be transmitted from mother to kitten and is both contagious and fatal over time.

  • FECAL TEST A microscopic analysis of a stool sample to check for internal parasites. This is recommended for kitten’s first visit and repeated on his/her last kitten visit. Dewormer medication is dispensed as needed. We recommend deworming ALL  kittens.

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DIET/FEEDING

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  • Kittens less than 6 months of age should be fed a premium diet formulated for kittens. This should be offered free choice along with lots of fresh water. Table food and milk should be avoided. Establishing an early preference for dry kibble will aid in good dental health throughout life.

  • Kittens less than 6 months of age should be fed a premium diet formulated for kittens. This should be offered free choice along with lots of fresh water. Table food and milk should be avoided. Establishing an early preference for dry kibble will aid in good dental health throughout life.

 

 

PREVENTION:

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  • FLEA PREVENTION Monthly topical flea treatment is recommended.

  • HEARTWORM PREVENTION Monthly heartworm protection is available and recommended for cats. Cats do get mosquito bites, which are responsible for the spread of heartworm disease! This disease can be prevented in cats. Surprisingly, studies have shown that both indoor and outdoor cats are at equal risk for the disease.

  • GROOMING All kittens should be introduced to coat brushing, nail trimming and tooth brushing at an early age these procedures will be readily accepted when truly needed! There are feline flavor toothpastes (seafood, tuna, poultry, etc) to help with compliance.

  • NEUTERING An ovariohysterectomy (spay) or castration (neuter) is recommended before 6 months of age for all cats.Overpopulation of cats is a tragic reality. Neutering your cat prior to maturity is both humane and responsible.  In addition, early neutering helps prevent  mammary cancer and certain undesirable behaviors.

  • DECLAWING We encourage all cat owners to become educated about preventive training to avoid this painful procedure. We believe that this procedure has no benefit to the cat and that it is performed purely for the convenience of the uninformed owner. 

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