KITTENS
We are delighted you have chosen us to look after your new kitten
it’s an exciting time for everyone and we hope they’re settling in well and becoming part of your family. You may have some questions about the best way to care for your kitten and we’ve tried to answer some of them here but please don’t hesitate to get in touch via Petsapp or by phone if we can help at all.
VACCINATIONS
We recommend kittens begin their vaccinations at 9 weeks of age. The course consists of 2 injections given 3-4 weeks apart. Kittens are fully protected from 7 days after the second injection, however we recommend keeping your kitten indoors until they are castrated/spayed.
Kittens are vaccinated against Feline Enteritis, Feline Rhinotracheitis, Feline Calicivirus (Cat Flu) and Feline Leukaemia Virus (generally for cats who get outdoors)
Adult cats are required to have a booster annually which gives your cat the chance to have a complete health check at least once per year.
NEUTERING
We advise all cats not intended for breeding to be spayed. This can be done from 6 months of age
Benefits
+ No chance of unplanned mating
+ No seasons therefore no related behavioral changes (i.e. calling)
+ Removes risk of Pyometra (life threatening uterine infection which can require emergency surgery)
Risks
+ Anaesthetic risk
+ Potential reduction in metabolic rate which can mean they are more prone to weight gain. If this does occur it can be effectively managed through diet
+ Post op complications e.g. infection, wound breakdown (but these are uncommon)
NEUTERING (MALE CATS)
Male cats can be castrated from 6 months of age
Benefits
+ Reduction in urge to roam/fight
+ Reduction in spraying/scent marking if done at 6 months
+ Reduction in chance of contracting FIV (feline HIV) which is common in entire male cats who fight/mate due to their increased contact with other cats
Risks
+ Anaesthetic risk
+ Post op complications e.g. infection, wound breakdown (but these are uncommon)
WORMING
Worming should be started from a very young age
We recommend worming monthly till your kitten is 6 months old, then every 3 months thereafter for cats who get outdoors throughout their lives.
MICROCHIPPING
Microchipping is highly recommended and is a legal requirement in England and Wales. We expect the law in Scotland to be changed soon. We offer microchipping to cats of any age and it is a simple procedure that inserts a rice grain sized microchip under the skin between the shoulder blades. Should your cat get lost and be taken to the police, the SSPCA or any veterinary surgery being microchipped will allow them to be traced back to you and returned safely.
INSURANCE
We strongly recommend you consider pet insurance to give you peace of mind. Look around for a policy that suits you – lifelong policies may cover long term disease/illness e.g. diabetes, thyroid issues and kidney disease.
REAL PETS HEALTH CLUB
As a member of our health plan your cat will receive the gold standard of care
With regular flea, tick and wormer treatments delivered directly to your door. Also included in the plan are annual boosters, regular health checks as well as additional discounts on other services. Joining our health plan ensures your cat gets all the benefits of essential healthcare whilst allowing you to spread the cost over the course of the year so you know exactly what you’ll be paying each month. Please see our Real Pets Health Club page for more details.
If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to get in touch – you can reach us through Petsapp or give us a call.
We’re here to help!
