KittenAid

Basic Health Care For Cats

As you get to know your kitten, you will get a feel for what is “normal” as far as his health is concerned, and you will be able to tell when he is not feeling well. Healthy cats have clear, bright eyes without discoloration or cloudiness, pink gums free of swelling or sores, ears and noses that are clean and free of odor or discharge, and a coat without fleas, dandruff or greasiness.

Good health begins with good nutrition. A kitten’s best first food comes from its mother. A substance called “colostrum” is produced before actual milk, providing essential anti-bodies which strengthen the kitten’s immune system. In the absence of a mother cat, formula developed to meet the special nutritional needs of kittens is available from pet shops. Never give cow’s milk to kittens. Cow’s milk does not provide sufficient nutrition and may cause diarrhea which can lead to dehydration.

As he grows, your kitten’s diet will change. Liquid formula is gradually thickened by adding solids such as baby cereal while decreasing liquids. Meat flavored baby food can be used, but it absolutely must not have any onion in the ingredients. Kittens will need to eat soft solids until about 8 weeks of age. When their permanent teeth come in, they can begin to eat dry food, but this should be kitten formula until they are a year old. Overweight or pregnant cats have special dietary needs as well, and pet food manufacturers have developed different formulas to meet them.

While dry food helps to clean tartar from cats’ teeth and is probably more convenient, many veterinarians recommend feeding wet food along with dry to maintain proper hydration. Offering a variety of foods is thought to help cats become less finicky, too. Be sure to make any changes to your cat’s diet slowly.
Provide plenty of clean fresh water every day. If your cat drinks from puddles or the toilet, the water in his bowl probably has a bad taste or smell.

As with human children, kittens are susceptible to viruses and bacteria which can make them ill. Vaccinations are important to protect kittens from disease, and most experts agree that some vaccines are necessary for all cats while some are necessary only for certain cats. Most kittens (especially those adopted from shelters) will need to be de-wormed at least once.

Core vaccines are widely recommended, and can begin as early as 6 weeks of age. They are usually given in a combination vaccine which includes protection against Feline Panleukopenia (Distemper), Rhinotracheitis and Calicivirus. Rabies vaccinations are often required by law, and begin when the cat is about three months old. Your veterinarian can set a schedule for your cat’s series of shots and boosters.
Non-core vaccines are recommended depending on the individual cat’s age, breed and general health. The cat’s environment and risk of exposure is also taken into consideration. Outdoor cats are much more likely to contract diseases or to come into contact with an animal which carries a disease. Non-core vaccines include those which protect against Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV), Infectious Peritonitis (FIP), Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV), Chlamydia and Ringworm. Your veterinarian can help you decide whether these vaccinations are appropriate for your kitten.

Aside from the obvious necessity of feline population control, spaying or neutering your cat will provide additional health benefits. For females, spaying reduces the risk of uterine infections and tumors of the reproductive system. Neutering has been shown to reduce aggressive behavior and marking of territory in males, lessening the urge to roam. Kittens can be spayed or neutered when they are 8 – 9 weeks old, provided they weigh at least 2 pounds.

Good grooming is essential to your cat’s health. Regular brushing distributes natural oils through the fur, reduces mats and helps to control shedding. Brushing gives you the perfect opportunity to check your cat’s body for lumps or tumors and a chance to look for dandruff, bald patches, or fleas in the cat’s fur. Any abnormality such as a lump under the cat’s skin should be examined by your veterinarian. Topical flea and tick treatments for home use are readily available from pet shops.

Check your cat’s ears regularly for the presence of ear mites, tiny insects that look like brown bits of dirt. Generally, ear mites can be removed by gently cleaning the cat’s ears with a soft cloth moistened with warm water. Be aware that insect bites can lead to secondary infections and serious infestations should be treated medically by a veterinarian.

Cats in good health are meticulous in their cleaning habits, and rarely need to be bathed. If your cat encounters a sticky or potentially hazardous substance such as tar or paint, try first to remove it by rubbing with mineral oil. Never use paint thinner or solvent on your cat’s fur!

Pay attention when you clean your cat’s litter box. Normal stool is firm and brown. Changes in consistency (especially diarrhea), abnormal coloration or the presence of blood or mucous in the stool are signs of internal problems which need veterinary attention.