Adding a new kitten to your family brings a lot of joy but also is a huge responsibility. You should know what to do when you get a kitten, to administer your kitten's first shot, and things you need for a kitten when preparing for their first vet visit. This is exactly what this blog is all about.
What To Do When You Get a Kitten
First thing first, bring your kitten home safely by using a carrier and let them adjust to a quiet room in their own time. Few days later, schedule a vet visit for a health check-up and vaccination plan. Ensure a quiet safe space to socialise. Feed them kitten-specific food in order for them to grow properly. Create a routine with clear rules and reward good behavior to help them adjust to the new home.
When Should I Get My Kitten Vaccinated?
Vaccinations are essential for young kittens and to be effective, they must be administered within the prescribed intervals. It is advised to take your kitten on scheduled vaccination visits to the vet. But, here comes the main question: what age do kittens have their first vaccination? The kitten's first shot is started at 6 to 8 weeks of age and is repeated every 3 to 4 weeks until the kitten is 4 months old.
What Shots Does My Kitten Need?
There are two types of vaccinations used for your kitten namely: core vaccinations and non-core vaccinations.
Core vaccinations protect your kitten from the most common diseases like feline distemper, feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and rabies.
Non-core vaccines are not administered to all kittens but are recommended in certain cases based on their lifestyle. Usually, these additional vaccines are recommended for CAT who live outdoors. For instance, one non-core vaccine for Chlamydia may be suggested if the disease is common in your area however feline leukemia vaccine feLV is recommended for all kittens exposed to outdoor cats.
Kittens Vaccination Schedule
- 6-8 weeks: FVRCP
- 9-11 weeks: FVRCP (2nd round); Optional: FeLV, FIV
- 12-14 weeks: FVRCP (3rd round); Optional: FeLV (2nd round), FIV (2nd round)
- 15-17 weeks: FVRCP (4th round), Rabies; Optional: FIV (3rd round)
- 1-3 years: FVRCP booster, Rabies (2nd round); Optional: FeLV & FIV boosters (annually)
Side Effect of Kitten Vaccine
Vaccinations are an essential part of your kitten's health, but sometimes simple side effects can arise. Generally, the reactions are mild, although sometimes more serious reactions are possible. Here are some common Side effects of Kitten Vaccine:
Common Mild Side Effects:
- Tiredness
- Mild fever
- Soreness or swelling at the injection site
- Small lump at the injection site
Moderate Side Effects:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Decreased appetite
Severe Side Effects (Require Immediate Attention):
- Facial swelling
- Hives
- Difficulty breathing
- Signs of shock
If you suspect the presence of other symptoms, rush your kitten to the emergency vet. Consult your veterinarian for advice. They can evaluate your pet's condition, decide whether to continue the vaccine series, and in some cases, advise pre-treatment with an antihistamine.
Your Kitten’s First Visit to the Vet
Most kittens have already been to the vet for their first vaccination before you get them, however, even if the kitten has already been taken to the vet with the breeder. It is crucial to establish a positive relationship with your pet and the vet as soon as possible. This can be achieved by following a few tips to avoid any trauma or stressful times while at the vet.
Tips To Prepare Your Kitten For The First Vet Visit
- Buy a cat carrier to keep your kitten safe when traveling and to your vet.
- Spray your cat carrier 15 minutes prior to your journey with Feliway Spray. Feliway will help to reduce stress and anxiety which will help your kitten feel more comfortable and at ease.
- Write down and take along any questions you may have concerning the care of your kitten. Don't be embarrassed to ask questions-that's what vets are for, and no question is silly if you don't know the answer.
- The first visit with your vet might involve a full clinical examination of your kitten and will probably question you to quite an extent on where you got your kitten from and if it has been wormed, vaccinated, deflead etc.
- Bring along any paperwork the breeder or cattery gave you as this may include the information your vet needs.
- During the clinical examination, your vet will weigh your kitten and examine their coat, ears, eyes, heart, lungs, teeth, and gums.
Practical Bonus tip: Schedule your kitten's first appointment early in the morning when the clinic opens or during less crowded hours. Your kitten may not have undergone all his vaccinations yet, so they are still vulnerable to certain diseases. Booking an appointment when the clinic is less busy will also help alleviate the stress that your kitten will feel in a foreign environment and decrease the possibility of your kitten having to deal with a waiting room full of dogs etc.
Preparing for your kitten’s first vet visit is an important step in ensuring their health and well-being. Understanding the vaccination schedule and what to expect during this first encounter makes you ready and prepared to give your kitten the best possible care. With better planning and direction from your veterinarian, you can get your kitten set up for a life of health and happiness.
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