After that adorable kitten is found, the next trip should be to a veterinarian for a first visit checkup. This is important no matter if the kitten is by herself or will be living with other cats. Provided there are no symptoms of illness, sometime in the next 48 hours is a good period.
The first checks the veterinarian will perform are to get the weight and temperature of the kitten. The teeth are checked for any sign of dental disease and to determine the age if needed. A stethoscope is used to listen to the heart for irregular beating and for noise in the lungs. He will check the eyes for any problems. The ears get a throughout look for signs of ear mites. In addition, an all-over petting to look for fleas or any signs of wounds on the body.
There are laboratory tests that are performed as well. A fecal float is performed to check for internal parasites and worms. This float tests mainly for hook worms, round worms and tape worms. Other conditions that can be checked as well but typically only done if there are other symptoms.
The other laboratory tests performed are blood tests. The first disease tested for is FeLV or Feline Leukemia Virus. This virus is very contagious and spreads through saliva, blood, feces or urine. Even if the cat does not become ill, it is a carrier the rest of its life. The other blood test done at this time is for Feline Immunodeficiency Virus or FIV. This disease is similar to the human version in that it attacks the immune system leaving the cat unable to fight off infections. There is not a vaccine to prevent the disease but cats with FIV can still live a good life.
Around 9 to 10 weeks old, your kitten should receive the 3-way vaccine. This vaccine is one shot but contains agents for feline calicivirus, herpesvirus and feline panleukopenia (FRCP). Feline calicivirus or FCV is a common viral disease that causes upper respiratory problems such as pneumonia. Although it is a mild flu-like condition, it can trigger arthritis or mouth ulcers. Feline herpesvirus infections cause eye problems like conjunctivitis or corneal ulcers. Feline Panleukopenia is a very contagious viral disease that is caused by the parvovirus. Other names that have been used for FRCP are feline distemper, cat fever and infectious enteritis. This virus is resistant to many cleaning disinfectants and can spread through food dishes, bedding or on owners. Some cats survive FRCP and develop their own immunity but the death rate is high for young kittens. The vaccine is very effective though and the reason that FRCP has become an uncommon disease.
An appointment for spaying or neutering needs to be set up as well. Many veterinarians practice early spaying or neutering. This is very critical to controlling the animal population and it allows for a longer and healthier life for your pet. Declawing may be offered but there are several non-surgical options that are far less traumatic.
