Have you recently adopted a kitten? You’re starting on a long and beautiful journey of friendship with your furry buddy. Cats are almost impossibly cute at this stage of their lives. They’re also basically tiny, furry bundles of chaos. Here, an Anderson, IN vet discusses keeping little Fluffy safe through her adorable toddler stage.
Keep Kitty In
Cats are always safer as indoor pets. Of course, Fluffy is much more amenable to being an inside kitty if she’s raised that way. Teach your tiny furball that she lives indoors!
Be Cautious With Toxins
At this time of year, many people are heading outside and tending to their yards and gardens. Spring cleaning is often also on the agenda. Many of the products that are commonly used here are toxic to cats. Given that kittens are so small, they don’t need to ingest or absorb much to become very, very ill. Be very careful when using chemicals, such as pesticides, fertilizers, and even cleaning products. Keep your pint-sized buddy safe and sound in another area.
Be Cautious With Preventative Care
Fleas, ticks, and heartworms all pose serious threats to our feline pals. However, not all products are safe for kittens. Ask your vet for specific recommendations on these products, including dosage amounts and time frames.
Watch For Illness
Kittens are very small and fragile, and they can get sick very quickly. Watch for warning signs that something is off. These may include things like fever, lethargy, withdrawal, ragged or gaspy breathing, and discharge from the eyes, ears, nose, and mouth. Contact your vet immediately if you notice anything off. While many issues, such as infections, are treatable, prompt care is crucial.
Consider A Wellness Package
Proper veterinary care will go a long way in getting your feline buddy started out on the right paw in life. Your tiny friend will need to come in a few times during that critical first year. Spay/neuter surgery, exams, parasite control, vaccines and boosters, and microchipping are all in order. Consider getting a wellness plan or package. This can be a great way to both work those appointments into your budget and make sure nothing gets overlooked. Ask your vet for more information.
Please reach out to us for your kitten’s care needs, or to learn more about wellness plans. As your Anderson, IN pet hospital, we are here to help!
