Kitten wellness

Kitten wellness is the preventive care we recommend and do for our kittens (cats under 1 year of age).

Our goal with kitten wellness is very simple: we want to give the kitten the best possible start in life. We do this by a series of examinations, testing for intestinal parasites, feline leukemia and immunodeficiency virus testing, deworming, appropriate immunizations, and recommendations on nutrition.

For kittens between 8 weeks and 6 months of age, we recommend 3 visits at 3 week intervals.

We now have Kitten Wellness Plans! Only animals 6 weeks to 6 months old are eligible. Please call us for details and pricing!

Kitten Wellness Plans include all 3 kitten visits, flea prevention and spay/neuter.

1^st visit:

Introduction to our hospital and staff

Physical exam: covers 12 separate areas of the pet

Leukemia (FeLV) and immunodeficiency (FIV) virus testing: FeLV and FIV are common, deadly viruses that affect cats and kittens. Early diagnosis is crucial to effective treatment/management of either disease.

Fecal testing: we recommend two tests at the first visit.

1. A fecal floatation to detect the more common worm-type intestinal parasites

2. A giardia test to determine presence of Giardia,  a protozoal parasite. Giardia is very difficult to detect with a fecal floatation

Deworming: all kittens should be treated (dewormed) for roundworms, even with a negative fecal sample. This is recommended because,

1. Roundworms are a very common intestinal parasite in kittens

2. The eggs, which are detected with the fecal floatation, are not passed in every stool sample.

3. The worms are potentially life threatening to the kitten

4. Humans, especially children can become infected roundworms.

Immunization: we advise beginning core kitten immunizations at 6-8 weeks of age. Core kitten immunizations are those recommended for all kittens.

1. Feline viral rhinotracheitis

2. Calicivirus

3. Chlamydia

4. Panleukopenia

Feline Leukemia vaccination is also strongly recommended for all kittens.

At the present time, we do NOT recommend the FIV or FIP vaccines for kittens.

Parasite prevention: will be discussed, and individualized prevention plans will be made.

Diet/nutrition: not all kitten food is equally nutritious. We can and will provide suggestions for the correct diet for the kitten.

Kitten kit: this is an information kit for the new puppy owner. While some people are very knowledgeable about their new pet, this contains quick reference information and local services for cat owners.

Total cost: between $40 (the exam only) and $217 (all recommended tests/services). These prices do not include any other medication or dewormers.

2^nd visit

The second visit should be scheduled 3 weeks after the first.

Physical exam: we will again perform a complete physical exam, and check results against the 1^st exam.

Fecal testing: at the second visit, we will do just a fecal floatation. This is due to the accuracy of the Giardia test (whether positive or negative), and the intermittent nature of parasite eggs in the stool.

Deworming: against roundworms

Immunization: The core vaccination (FVRCCP) will be repeated at the second visit. By boostering the FVRCCP at 3 week intervals, we will provide good protection against common kitten diseases. The   Feline Leukemia vaccination will also be recommended/boostered at this time.

Cost: between $20 (the exam only) and $118 (all recommended services/tests). As before, these do not include any other medications or dewormers.

3^rd visit

The third visit should be scheduled 3 weeks after the second visit.

Physical exam: we will again perform a complete physical exam, and check results against the 1^st and 2^nd exams.

Deworming: against roundworms

Immunizations: The FVRCCP will be boostered for the final time, and a 1 year rabies vaccine will be given.   The   Feline Leukemia vaccination will also be recommended/boostered at this time.

Spay/neuter is typically scheduled at this time.

Cost: $20 (the exam) to $125 (all recommended services, including the rabies).

Total kitten visit cost: $459, this does not include any other medications or dewormers

Top of the Page

 ***Prices are subject to change without this website being updated right away, please call to confirm current pricing!***