1. Vaccinations
Vaccines are given to cats to stimulate immunity against two infectious diseases:

• Feline panleucopenia: infectious enteritis
• Feline infectious respiratory disease: cat flu

There is also an optional vaccination for Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV); this is recommended when cats live together in close contact. Before this vaccination can be given a test must be done to determine if your cat/kitten is not yet infected with FeLV.

Why vaccinate my kitten?
Vaccinations are necessary to stimulate immunity against infectious diseases and prevent contracting diseases.

At what age?
A kitten needs 2 vaccinations: At 9 and 12 weeks of age.
If you choose to vaccinate against FeLV this should be done at 12 and 15 weeks of age.

When do I booster my cat?
A booster is due yearly and is vital in maintaining immunity. A vaccination reminder is sent to you in the post.

     2. Parasite control

A cat needs to be routinely treated for internal and external parasites. You can buy worming tablets and flea treatment at the reception at any time.

Worming tablet (given orally against internal parasites) how often?

• Fortnightly until 12 weeks of age
• Monthly until 6 months
• Every 3 months thereafter

 External Parasite control (flea treatment)
Spot on in the neck (higher risk during summer months): depends on manufacturer recommendations:

• Stronghold: 1 every month         : Fleas, ear mites, mange, heartworm, round and hookworms
• Frontline: 1 every 2 months       : Fleas and ticks
• Advocate: 1 every month            : Fleas, mange, demodex, heartworm and roundworms

Is it necessary to treat my house against fleas?
The flea lifecycle also has a stage in the direct environment. By washing pet beds, vacuuming beds and carpets and treating your pets with a spot on you can minimize the risk of fleas in your home.

     3. Nutrition
Get the correct balance: do not overfeed (give food ad lib) to your cat as this can cause obesity. A kitten needs small more frequent meals during the day as they have a small stomach. As your kitten develops (5-6 months old) 2 or 1 meal daily will suffice. Nuts are recommendable as they are better for the teeth.
When changing from one type of food to another gradually mix in small amounts of the new food as a sudden change can cause tummy upsets.

     4. Chip
This is an individual identification chip that is placed in between the shoulders of your pet. It cannot be removed and is handy if your pet strays as all pounds and veterinary surgeons have a chip reader. When the chip number is known your details can be found and your pet returned to you.

     5. Insurance
This is strongly recommended as medications for certain conditions, road accidents and out of hours calls can be costly. Certain breeds can be very susceptible to certain costly conditions.

     6. Breed dispositions
Ask your vet what breed dispositions occur in your pets breed.

     7. Neutering
Why neuter my cat?

• Female:         Prevent pregnancy. The risk of mammary tumours and ovarian cysts decreases.
• Male:              Prevent roaming, marking territory, breeding and aggressive behaviour.

At what age?
From 6 months of age.

What is involved?

A general anaesthetic is needed.

• Female:         Ovariohysterectomy - removal of ovaries and uterus.
• Male:              Castration - removal of the testes.

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