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NEW KITTEN CARE INFORMATION
A cat cannot (and should not) be compared with any other domestic pet,
because of its many unique qualities. Cats combine a strong sense of independence
with a deep affection for its owner. It is self-reliant, but can be trained
in obedience and tricks. It is easy to housebreak, adapts well to apartment
living, does not require you to walk or exercise it, and naturally keeps
itself clean and neat.
General Health Care Suggestions:
1. Have your new kitten examined by a veterinarian IMMEDIATELY after
obtaining it.
2. Vaccinations:
a. Feline Distemper, Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Chlamydia
b. Rabies
c. Feline Leukemia
d. Feline Infectious Peritonitis ("FIP")
3. We routinely deworm for the major internal parasites at the
same time as immunizations are
given. Over-the-counter medications are usually NOT effective, and may
even cause illness. Watch the stools for small white segments that look
similar to "rice". These are tapeworms and require a special
type medication.
4. Daily Brushing limits shedding, improves coat, and prevents
hairballs. A bath is recommended every 2 weeks to remove chemicals
which may accumulate on the kitten's hair coat from furniture, etc. These
potential poisons are thought to be the cause of liver disease in older
cats.
5. Flea Control:
(a) Treat house and yard once a month.
(b) Bathe every 2 weeks in Mycodex 3X Pyrethrin Shampoo.
(c) Use Frontline TopSpot or Advantage Once Each Month After 10 Weeks
Of Age
(d) Confining the cat TOTALLY INDOORS is the best solution!
(e) Fleas may give the cat TAPEWORMS. ("Rice" in the
feces.)
6. Hairballs: Longhaired cats may need Cat-Lax twice a
week to prevent hairballs. Brushing daily is the most important hairball
prevention.
7. Declawing: Should be done at 3-4 months of age. (as soon as
properly vaccinated). Front feet only are done so your cat can
still climb trees and fight.
8. Neutering: Do at 5-6 months of age-both male and female.
Note: Female cats are not like the dog! They continue to "come in
heat" every 3 -4 weeks until they are bred. Signs of "heat"
include restlessness, nervousness, rolling on the floor, more
affectionate, voice changes, etc.
9. Litter Box Training:
(a) Usually no problem - done by instinct.
(b) Keep litter box clean! "Odor Neutralizer" or baking soda
will decrease the litter box odor. Change at least twice a week. Remove
droppings DAILY. "Oil Dry" Material or Alfalfa Pellets make
good cat litter. Plastic garbage bags can be used for litter box liners.
(c) Premium Diets, such as Science Diet will decrease stool volume and
odor tremendously.
10 Nutrition:
(a) Feed only high quality food.
(b) Feed dry food - free choice. Moisten until the kitten is 3 months
old.
(c) Fresh water should be available at all times. Change daily.
(d) Do not feed milk, unless diluted at least 1/2 with water.
It is best not to give any at all since it often causes diarrhea.
(e) Don't use cheap or generic foods. These cannot be digested properly.
Don't use dog food. The protein amount is NOT high enough for cats.
(f) Recommended treats: Cottage Cheese, Cooked Eggs.
11. Miscellaneous Considerations:
(a) NEVER give a cat Tylenol or Aspirin.
(b) A plastic carrying crate is good investment for cat trips and also
as a "bed" at home. It will give the kitten a "private"
place and offers security. It should be placed a couple of inches off
the floor.
(c) Signs of illness: diarrhea, refusal to eat, vomiting, gagging, coughing,
sneezing,
sluggish, watery eyes, any other abnormality.
12. Commode Training For Cats:
(a) Start by putting the litter on the toilet seat so the cat becomes
accustomed to jumping up when it needs to use the litter box.
(b) After a week or so, cut a little hole in the center of the litter
box. Every 4 - 5 days, increase the size of the hole, so the cat learns
to balance itself over the hole. At the same time, reduce the amount
of litter placed in the box.
(c) In the end, of course, there should be no litter in the box, and
the size of the hole should approximate that of the toilet seat.
(d) Be careful not to rush the training. If your cat feels uncomfortable
at any point, it will
choose another location for its toilet.
13. Please feel free to call our office for advice or suggestions
on proper care of your kitten. We want to help you insure a lifelong happy
relationship with your new pet.
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