Cat Care

Cats require routine veterinary care just as dogs do. However, only about half of the cats in the United States visit a veterinary clinic each year. Kittens and senior cats require more frequent visits than adult cats.

For a successful visit we recommend:

  • bring your cat in a carrier
  • bring any records or paperwork provided by the shelter or breeder
  • write down your questions and concerns so we can answer them for you
  • bring a fresh stool sample

Kitten Wellness

Newly adopted kittens should come see us within a week of coming home. We’ll help you get off on the right foot with your new family member.

At your first kitten visit, we will review important topics:

  • Enrichment for your kitten
  • Vaccination schedule
  • Behavior and socialization
  • Litter box training
  • Parasite control
  • Nutrition and supplements
  • Nail trimming
  • Spay and neutering
  • Pet insurance

Your kitten’s visit will also include a weight check, a physical exam of her/his coat, ears, eyes, heart, lungs, teeth, and gums. We strive to make these visits pleasant and playful, encouraging your kitten to have a lifetime of positive encounters and safe handling with the veterinary staff.

Depending on your kitten’s history and age, we will recommend a variation on the schedule below – or start from scratch if needed. These recommendations are general guidelines. We will tailor your cat’s wellness care to their health and lifestyle.

8 Weeks Old

  • Physical Exam
  • Feline Distemper (FVRCP) Vaccine #1 of 3
  • Deworming for Intestinal Parasites
  • Fecal Screening

12 Weeks Old

  • Physical Exam
  • Feline Distemper (FVRCP) Vaccine #2 of 3
  • FeLV Testing and Vaccine #1 of 2
  • Fecal Screening

16 Weeks Old

  • Physical Exam
  • Feline Distemper (FVRCP) vaccine #3 of 3
  • FeLV Vaccine #2 of 2
  • Rabies Vaccine
  • Deworming for Intestinal Parasites

Adult Cats

Annual exams are essential, proactive means to your cat’s health and wellbeing. As cats age, they are more prone to serious illnesses. Regular vet visits can help detect any problems – cats are notorious for hiding their symptoms. Because they age more quickly than we do, their health can change quickly without outward signs.

Below are recommendations for cats aged one to seven years old. Your cat is an individual, so we’ll make recommendations based on their specific needs and lifestyle.

Adult Cats (1-7 years)

  • Physical Exam
  • Adult Labwork (blood and urine)
  • Dental Screening
  • Feline Distemper (FVRCP)
  • Check FeLV/FIV (if not done previously)
  • Rabies Vaccine Every 3 Years Once Fully Vaccinated
  • Intestinal Parasite Test (fecal)
  • Heartworm Testing and Prevention
  • Flea and Tick Prevention

Senior Cats

As cats age, they become more prone to serious health problems. For example, older cats are more likely to have high blood pressure, organ failure (especially chronic kidney disease), cancer, arthritis and cognitive disorders. More frequent exams and screenings may head off some of these problems, or help you to manage them better. Because of this, we recommend senior cats have exams, and some testing, twice a year. Our veterinarians will talk to you about what to expect and what to look for in age-related changes in your cat. We’ll also provide suggestions for helping your cat enjoy their golden years.

Below are the general recommendations for older cats, though we’ll tailor a wellness plan specific to your cat’s needs.

Senior Cats (8+ years)

  • Semi-Annual Physical Exam
  • Dental Screening
  • Feline Distemper (FVRCP) Vaccine Every 3 Years (once booster series completed)
  • Rabies Vaccine Every 3 Years Once Fully Vaccinated
  • Feline Leukemia (FeLV) Vaccine for at Risk Cats
  • Annual Deworming
  • Intestinal Parasite Screening (fecal)
  • Senior Labwork (blood and urine)
  • Blood Pressure Screening
  • Heartworm Testing Prevention
  • Flea and Tick Prevention