How to prepare for your kitten’s first veterinarian visit
Learn how to create a great experience for you and your kitten on your first visit to the veterinarian
The importance of your first visit to the veterinarian
It’s important to take your kitten to the veterinarian soon after they have come home with you. It’s a great chance to learn more about their health and how to care for them. And it’s worth getting prepared so you get the most out of it and your kitten has a positive experience.
- Information about your kitten’s diet and drinking habits.
- Whether you’ve noticed any changes in their appetite, digestion or behaviour.
- Details of any health issues, medications, supplements or treatments.
- A list of things you’d like to ask the veterinarian.
- Do a complete health check.
- Microchip your kitten so they can be easily identified.
- Prepare a vaccination schedule.
- Talk about parasite prevention.
- Discuss nutrition and veterinarian-recommended kitten food.
- Advise you on kitten care (eye and nose cleaning, grooming, bathing and nail clipping).
Make sure that you have a sturdy carrier and help your kitten get used to it by encouraging them to play or sleep in it with a blanket that smells of you. Also make sure that your kitten is used to being handled so they’re more likely to be comfortable with the veterinarian.
To help your kitten feel settled, speak to them in a soft voice and move slowly. Make sure that the carrier doesn’t shake and turn the front towards you and away from other animals.
Remember to share the information that you’ve brought and ask plenty of questions so you’re confident about caring for your kitten.
During this first appointment, you can expect your veterinarian to:
When you get home, give your kitten chance to explore and settle in calmly.
When to take your kitten to the veterinarian
Every kitten is different and some may need to see a veterinarian more regularly than others. After their important first appointment at around two months old, your kitten must complete their vaccination program with the veterinarian. They’ll then need appointments at least yearly for check-ups and booster vaccinations. Always contact your veterinarian if you’re at all concerned about your kitten’s health and wellbeing.
Find a veterinarian
It's important to have identified a local veterinarian before collecting your kitten. Find a veterinarian near you.
Find a veterinarianUnderstanding your kitten's health
It's important to understand your kitten's routines and behaviour, so you can quickly recognize the signs if something isn't right. It's also important to understand a few key milestones, such as vaccinations and booster injections.
Kitten health