Kitten
Wellness Care

Kitten Wellness Care


Congratulations on your new kitten! 

The first wellness exam is a critical step in establishing the health of your kitten, so it is important to schedule an exam with us as soon as possible. Premature and young kittens are prone to medical issues early on as their immune system is not fully developed, and may be more susceptible to illness. Kittens that have not had adequate medical care prior to adoption or acquisition may have pre-existing conditions that need to be addressed. Timberline’s comprehensive kitten exam will ensure your new friend gets off to a healthy start.

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Your Kitten’s First Visit

Please bring your kitten in a secured carrier along with all veterinary records or other paperwork you have pertaining to your kitten’s care. Also, please bring a fresh stool sample (ideally less than 12 hours old).  During your kitten’s series of visits, we will address any questions you have concerning care for your kitten, such as diet and nutrition, behavioral issues, litter training, and integrating them into your home.

Your kitten’s first exam will include:

  • A comprehensive physical examination
  • Screening for viruses specific to felines, such as Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV)
  • Intestinal parasite (worm) screening and deworming (if needed)
  • Vaccinations
  • Discussion of surgical sterilization
  • Behavior and training recommendations
  • Nutritional counseling

Vaccinations

At Timberline Animal Hospital, we follow the latest vaccine guidelines set out by the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP). We will work with you to develop a vaccination program tailored specifically for your kitten. There are many diseases that are preventable through the prudent use of vaccines, so it is important to vaccinate your kitten against the diseases to which they may be exposed. 
The core vaccine for all cats is the FVRCP vaccine which protects against panleukopenia (a feline parvovirus), feline viral rhinotracheitis (herpesvirus) and calicivirus. The FVRCP vaccines series typically is started at 8 weeks of age and boostered every 3 to 4 weeks until at least 16 weeks of age. The AAFP recommends vaccination of all kittens under 1 year old against Feline Leukemia virus (FeLV). The FeLV vaccine is given as a series of two boosters 3 to 4 weeks apart.   The Rabies vaccine is given as a single booster usually at the last kitten visit.  Rabies vaccination is required for all cats by state law in Nevada

Surgical sterilization (spay/neuter)

Surgical sterilization provides many benefits for cats and their owners. It reduces marking behavior, eliminates the possibility of unintended pregnancy, and reduces the incidence of certain types of cancers.  Sterilization surgeries are typically performed at 5 to 6 months of age.


Symptoms Requiring Immediate Medical Attention

Please also be alert to the following symptoms, as they are signs that your kitten needs immediate care:

  • Respiratory problems such as persistent coughing, shortness of breath, labored breathing, or excessively rapid or slow breathing
  • Signs of pain including panting, labored breathing, increased body temperature, lethargy, hiding, restlessness, loss of appetite, reacting aggressively when touched or approached, crying
  • Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
  • A wound or laceration that’s open and bleeding
  • Animal bites
  • Any eye injury, no matter how mild
  • Seizure, fainting or collapse
  • Allergic reactions or swelling around the face, hives, or severe itching
  • An eye injury
  • Seizure, fainting
  • Collapse, difficulty standing
  • Blank stare, disorientation
  • Exposure to extreme cold or heat, even if the dog seems to have recovered
  • Trauma such as getting hit by a vehicle or falling
  • Suspected poisoning or ingestion of a foreign substance

Please contact us immediately if your kitten is experiencing any of these symptoms.

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Hospital Hours

Monday – Friday: 8am – 5pm

Closed Daily: 11:30am – 1:30pm

Saturday – Sunday: Closed