Kitten Vet Care

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Congratulations on your new kitten!

Along with the excitement may come a bit of nerves as well — but rest assured, we’re here to offer expert veterinary advice to ensure your new kitten gets the best start in life.
A heartwarming cartoon illustration of a kitten and a puppy sitting together, highlighting the value of preventive care for pets.
Open until 10pm, 365 days a year... same day appointments and urgent-intakes welcome!
Primary and urgent care, under one roof.
Easily book online or text us.
Modern, warm clinics with unlimited free treats.
Open until 10pm, 365 days a year... same day appointments and urgent-intakes welcome!
Primary and urgent care, under one roof.
Easily book online or text us.
Modern, warm clinics with unlimited free treats.

WHY KITTENS NEED PREVENTIVE CARE

Investing in preventive care is the most crucial step a pet parent can take to ensure their kitten enjoys many healthy and happy years. 

Starting preventive care early is key, beginning with essential steps like kitten exams, vaccinations, and spaying/neutering.
A devoted veterinarian holding a cat, maintaining eye contact with the camera, emphasizing the significance of preventive care for feline well-being

WHY SPLOOT VETS?

Daily Appointment Availability

We’re here for you when it matters most. Our clinic doors are open everyday, 365 days a year - including weekends and holidays, and we accept same day appointments and urgent-intakes.

Caring, Experienced Veterinarians

Our seasoned team specializes in both primary and urgent care. From unusual symptoms to evident injuries, you can count on us for exceptional care.

A Stress-Free Modern Clinic

When your cat is brought to Sploot for routine dental care or tooth extraction, our stress-free clinic, friendly staff, and serene clinic environment makes the experience as calm as possible.

In-House Radiology & Lab

Radiographic exams and/or blood testing needed for virtually all surgeries. We offer these services in-house for your convenience.

Step by step guidance for your first few months as a new kitten parent!

STEP 01

Learn the Kitten Parenting Fundamentals

New pet parents need to be aware of several fundamental aspects of kitten care to provide the best care for their furry companion. These include:

Home preparation for your new pet

Training best practices

Socialization tips

You will find all these essential tips (and more) in our FREE, comprehensive kitten guide.
The Ultimate Pet Parent’s Guide to Kittens

STEP 02

Schedule Your Very First Kitten Visit

A must for effective preventive care — regular kitten exams play a crucial role in monitoring your fur baby’s growth and development, ensuring their overall good health. 
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What’s Included in a Kitten Exam

During kitten wellness exams, which typically last around 30 minutes, your furry friend will receive:

A Comprehensive Snout-to-Tail Examination

Our veterinarians will thoroughly examine your kitten’s ears, eyes, nose, mouth, teeth, gums, and posture. They will also inquire about your kitten’s feeding routines, litter box habits, behavior, and other important aspects of their daily life.

Vaccination Recommendations

Considering factors like location and lifestyle, our veterinarians will provide tailored advice on core vaccinations and any additional vaccines deemed necessary.

Time for All Your Questions

Do you have inquiries about your kitten's behavior, training, dietary needs, spaying/neutering, early allergy symptoms, or any other concerns? Our veterinarians are here to offer personalized guidance and address all your queries in these individual consultations.

When to Schedule Your First Kitten Exam

It's recommended to arrange your kitten's first wellness exam promptly after bringing them home.

Should you observe any concerning signs in your kitten, such as unusual lethargy, loss of appetite, being underweight, abnormal elimination, and so forth, we encourage you to schedule an urgent appointment. We welcome same-day appointments for immediate care needs.

STEP 03

Boost Your Young Furry Friend’s Immunity

Vaccinations strengthen your kitten's immunity against transmissible diseases. Given that kittens are particularly susceptible to contracting diseases and may experience more severe symptoms compared to adult cats, early vaccination is highly recommended.
A playful cartoon illustration of a blissful cat, lying on its back with legs in the air, exuding pure feline joy.

Kitten Vaccination Schedule

Core
FVRCP
The FVRCP vaccine is a combination vaccine for cats that protects against 3 transmissible viral infections: Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis (FVR), Feline Calicivirus (FCV), and Panleukopenia (FP). 

All 3 of these viruses are highly contagious and potentially life-threatening to kittens. Two of these viruses (FVR and FCV) are carried for life once a cat is infected; they have no definitive cure.
Recommended*
FeLV
The FeLV vaccine helps to build an active immunity against Feline Leukemia Virus, an incurable retrovirus that invades blood-forming tissues and the immune system.
Core
Rabies
The rabies vaccine for cats is an essential preventative step against the lethal rabies virus that affects the central nervous systems of mammals. This vaccine enhances the pet's immunity, substantially lowering the risk of rabies contraction.
*Generally recommended for cats in Denver & Chicago.

Want to get on top of kitten vaccinations?

STEP 04

Keep Parasites Away

Ensure your kitten stays free from parasites with preventive deworming. Since kittens are especially vulnerable to intestinal worms (with some even born with them), it's crucial to adhere to a comprehensive, timely deworming schedule.

Rest assured, our veterinarians will provide recommendations for the safest and most effective deworming medication tailored to your kitten's needs

Deworming Schedule for Kittens

Starts At
2 weeks old
Repeats At
4 weeks old
6 weeks old
8 weeks old
6 months old
1 year old

STEP 05

Plan Ahead for Spaying and Neutering

A kitten holding the hand of a vet
Opting for spaying and neutering offers a multitude of health and behavioral advantages for cats, contributing to their overall well-being and longevity. Studies affirm that these procedures play a pivotal role in reducing the risk of certain cancers in cats.

Furthermore, by preventing accidental breeding, spaying and neutering help mitigate the problem of pet overpopulation. These procedures are mandated by some municipalities in the USA and are supported by respected organizations like Humane Society International and the American Veterinary Medical Association.

When to Schedule Spaying or Neutering

Cats typically be spayed or neutered at around 4 months of age. Before proceeding with spaying or neutering, our veterinarians will conduct a thorough evaluation of your kitten to ensure the procedure is done at the safest time for them.

Ready to ace preventive care?

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What steps can I take to keep my kitten healthy and prevent illness?

Kittens, with their developing immune systems, are more susceptible to illness than adult cats. To maintain their good health, it's essential to...

  • Maintain good hygiene
  • Provide a nutritious diet that supports their development
  • Avoid exposing young pets to other animals until critical vaccinations are complete (i.e no dog parks, pet stores, or any place where strange animals could have stayed in.)
  • Get vaccinations as soon as it’s recommended by the veterinarian
  • Have regular veterinary check-ups for complete preventive care
What are the key health concerns I should monitor in my kitten? 

Among the most prevalent health issues for kittens are digestive issues, respiratory infections, parasites, and injuries. By prioritizing regular vet check-ups, vaccinations, and proactive preventive care measures, you can significantly decrease the likelihood of these health issues arising.

When should I schedule my new kitten's first vet visit?

It's advisable to schedule your new kitten's first wellness exam with a veterinarian as soon as possible. This initial visit enables the vet to monitor their growth, conduct health screenings, and administer vaccinations promptly as required.

How often should I bring my kitten in for check-ups?

Young kittens often require more frequent check-ups compared to adult cats. This allows veterinarians to closely monitor their growth and development. Our veterinary team will craft an individualized schedule tailored to your kitten's unique needs.

What vaccinations does my kitten need?

Our veterinarians can create a tailored vaccination plan for your kitten, covering essential core vaccines like rabies and FVRCP, as well as other recommended vaccines

What is the difference between core and recommended (non-core) vaccines?

Core vaccines are regularly advised for all kittens as they combat common diseases, while non-core vaccines are recommended by veterinarians based on specific requirements.
For kittens, initial vaccinations are spaced apart according to the veterinarian's guidance, as administering all shots simultaneously is usually not advisable.

Why is timely vaccination important for kittens?

Kittens, due to their still-developing immunity, are not only more prone to contracting various diseases than older cats but also tend to exhibit more severe symptoms.
The optimal time to begin vaccinating your kitten is during the earliest period recommended — or as specifically advised by your veterinarian.

Do I need to follow vaccination schedules?

Yes. Each vaccine has a specific timetable for the initial shot and subsequent doses. Strictly following the vaccine schedule is essential to strengthening your kitten's immunity against diseases.

How can I prevent and treat fleas and ticks for my kitten?

Fleas and ticks can cause discomfort and pose health risks for kittens, potentially leading to serious health issues. Our veterinarians will advise you on the safest and most effective prevention and treatment methods for your kitten.

When should I start training my kitten?

Early training and socialization are vital for kittens to develop into well-behaved adults. If you've brought home a kitten younger than 8 weeks old, their training, especially litter box training, can start as early as 4 weeks of age. The ideal socialization period for kittens is between 2 to 7 weeks when they are most receptive to new experiences and eager to learn.

How do I potty train my kitten?

Potty training a kitten can be challenging, but it's crucial to begin early and maintain consistency. Like teaching basic commands, positive reinforcement is key to successful potty training. For more detailed guidance on training young pets, be sure to refer to our kitten training guide!

How can I socialize my kitten?

Alongside introducing kittens to other pets, gradually expose them to various people in a calm environment. Encourage positive interactions and provide treats and praise to reinforce good behavior. Supervise these interactions closely to ensure your kitten feels comfortable and safe.

Can veterinarians help with training or behavioral issues in kittens?

Absolutely! You can discuss any training or behavioral concerns during your kitten's wellness exams.

How often should I feed my kitten?

It is recommended to feed  kittens three to four times a day until they are around six months old. After that, kittens can transition to being fed twice a day.

What type of food should I feed my new kitten?

Nutritional requirements vary based on your kitten's size, breed, and individual needs. Our veterinarians offer nutritional consultations to ensure your young feline companion receives all the essential nutrients for optimal growth and development.

What type of toys are safe and appropriate for my kitten?

In our kitten guide, we offer recommendations on safe and appropriate toys for your young feline friend. As a general rule, choose toys that are safe, non-toxic, and specifically designed for kittens. Avoid toys with small parts that may pose a choking hazard.

If you suspect your kitten has ingested a part of a toy, please contact us immediately for an urgent appointment.

When should I spay or neuter my cat?

Kittens can typically be spayed or neutered at around eight weeks of age.

Are all kittens safe to spay or neuter?

A pre-surgical examination is conducted for all kittens to ensure the utmost safety for spaying or neutering. This examination determines whether and when a kitten can undergo the procedure.

Should I get pet insurance?

Pet insurance can be a great way to help avoid unexpected veterinary expenses. When choosing pet insurance, make sure to get coverage that is suited for your pet’s needs.

Does Sploot Veterinary Care accept pet insurance?

Pet insurance plans typically offer reimbursement for treatments that fall within the scope of the plan.

Different pet insurance plans and wellness plans provide various types of coverage. For questions or clarifications about your kitten’s insurance or wellness plan, please contact your provider directly.

When can I schedule my kitten’s appointment at Sploot Vets?

You can schedule your kitten’s vet visit hours, days, or weeks in advance. If you require an urgent appointment, we accept same-day appointments as well as urgent-intakes (drop-offs).

What payment options are available in Sploot Vets?

We accept cashless payments; this helps ensure the safety of our clinics and clients. We are pleased to accept all major credit and debit cards, as well as CareCredit and ScratchPay.

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Got More Questions?

Feel free to call or text us with any questions you might have about caring for your cat.

Ready For Exceptional Veterinary Care?

We accept scheduled, same day, and urgent-intake appointments at ALL of our clinics.

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