Stages of a Cat’s Life
Kittens, adult cats, and mature cats each have different health needs. The American Association of Feline Practitioners recommends certain protocols of health care for each stage of your cats life. Proper preventative care that is appropriate to your cats life stage is one of the most effective ways to promote optimum health.
Kitten - 6 weeks to 8 months
FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotrachetis, Calci, Paneukopenia) instranasal vaccine is given at monthly intervals until the kitten is atleast 16 weeks of age.
Rabies vaccination is given at 12-14 weeks of age. The rabies vaccine is required by Vermont Law for both indoor and outdoor pets.
FELV (Feline Leukemia Virus) vaccination is recommended for multi-cat households, outdoor cats, and kittens. A series of two vaccines are required initially (3-4 weeks apart) then yearly thereafter until middle age.
FELV/FIV Test (Feline Leukemia Virus/Feline Aids Virus) blood test can be performed anytime after 8 weeks of age.
Fecal exams should be performed regularly during the kitten’s first year to check for less common intestinal parasites (Giardia, Coccidia).
Pyrantal 2-4 doses because 98% of kittens have roundworms (intestinal parasites).
Spaying (female) or neutering (male) is one of the most important steps that can be taken to insure the health and happiness of your kitten. This surgical altering is usually done at 4-6 months of age.
Microchip a permanent for of identification injected under the skin.
Adult - 10 months to 7 years
Twice yearly exams by the veterinarian to check body condition, heart, lungs, eyes, ears, mouth, abdominal organs, that also should include appropriate annual vaccinations and de-worming.
Nutritional evaluations as cats age ensure that their nutritional and caloric needs are being met as they change.
Professional dental cleaning every 1-2 years to prevent oral and systemic disease.
Baseline blood work should be performed as recommended by the veterinarian to check liver, kidney, and other internal organ functioning.
Urinalysis may also be recommended as part of routine monitoring care.
Mature - 8 years and beyond
Twice yearly exams are important because cats age more rapidly than humans and are very adept at hiding pain and illness. Many age related ailments can be treated if identified and addressed early.
Professional dental cleanings every 1-2 years to prevent oral and systemic disease.
Nutritional evaluation to identify and adjust as needed the aging cat’s special nutritional and caloric needs.
Blood work and urinalysis annually or bi-annually if there are any concerns.
Blood pressure monitoring is appropriate with kidney insufficiency and heart disease.
Chest x-rays may also be recommended by your veterinarian to detect changes early.
Abdominal ultrasound is a proactive method of looking for cystic growth or cancer.
Echocardiogram methods are used to determine the cause of heart murmurs.