PUPPY AND KITTEN CARE

Question 1

What vaccinations does my kitten need, and when should they get them?

Answer

Kittens need a series of vaccinations starting from 6-8 weeks of age.

6-8 weeks	First vaccination	F3: Enteritis (Panleukopaenia), Calicivirus and Rhinotracheitis
10-12 weeks	Booster vaccination	F3: Enteritis (Panleukopaenia), Calicivirus and Rhinotracheitis
14-16 weeks	Final kitten vaccination	F3: Enteritis (Panleukopaenia), Calicivirus and Rhinotracheitis
1 year after	First adult booster vaccination	F3: Enteritis (Panleukopaenia), Calicivirus and Rhinotracheitis
Every 1-3 years after	Booster vaccinations	F3: Enteritis (Panleukopaenia), Calicivirus and Rhinotracheitis

Question 2

When can I start socialising my kitten?

Answer

You can begin socialising your kitten at home with family members as soon as you bring them home. However, to protect them from diseases, it’s best to avoid exposure to other cats until they’ve completed their vaccination schedule at around 14-16 weeks of age.

Question 3

What is the best food for my kitten, and how often should I feed them?

Answer

Kittens need high-quality food formulated for growth. We recommend feeding your kitten 3-4 small meals a day. As they grow, we’ll guide you on adjusting the feeding schedule and portion sizes to ensure proper nutrition.

Question 4

How do I care for my kitten’s dental health?

Answer

Start brushing your kitten’s teeth early using a pet-friendly toothbrush and toothpaste. Regular dental care helps prevent issues like plaque and gum disease. Our team can offer advice on dental products and routines for your kitten.

Question 5

When should I bring my kitten for their first vet visit?

Answer

It’s ideal to bring your kitten in for their first vet visit as soon as you get them, typically around 6-8 weeks old. This visit will include a health check, vaccinations, and advice on nutrition, parasite control, and socialisation.

Question 6

What vaccinations does my puppy need, and when should they get them?

Answer

Puppies need a series of vaccinations starting from 6-8 weeks old.

6-8 weeks	First vaccination	C3: Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus
10-12 weeks	Booster vaccination	C3: Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus Kennel Cough: Parainfluenza virus and Bordatella Bronchiseptica
14-16 weeks	Final puppy vaccination	C3: Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus
Every 1-3 years after	Annual / Triannual boosters	Your adult dog will require yearly KC vaccination boosters for the rest of their life to remain immune from these diseases

Question 7

When is it safe to take my puppy to the park or introduce them to other dogs?

Answer

It’s best to avoid dog parks or areas with unknown dogs until your puppy has completed their 14-16 week vaccination schedule. After that, wait an additional 1-2 weeks for full protection before allowing them to interact with other dogs in public spaces.

Question 8

How often should I deworm my puppy?

Answer

Puppies should be dewormed every 2-3 weeks until they are about 12 weeks old. After that, they need regular deworming every 3 months to protect them from parasites. We will include deworming in your puppy’s health care plan.

Question 9

How can I ensure my puppy is properly socialised?

Answer

Socialisation is crucial between 8-16 weeks. You can introduce your puppy to new environments, people, and vaccinated dogs in safe, controlled settings. Puppy school is a great option, as all the puppies are at a similar stage of vaccination and socialisation.

Question 10

What is the best food for my puppy, and how often should I feed them?

Answer

Puppies need high-quality, nutritionally balanced food designed for growth. We recommend feeding your puppy 3-4 meals a day, adjusting as they grow. Our vets will provide specific advice on portion sizes and feeding schedules based on your puppy’s breed and development.

Question 11

How do I housetrain my puppy?

Answer

Consistency and positive reinforcement are key to housetraining. Take your puppy outside frequently, especially after meals or naps, and reward them for going in the right place. We recommend having a nurse consultation for further advice

Question 12

When should I bring my puppy for their first vet visit?

Answer

Your puppy’s first vet visit should be around 6-8 weeks of age. This initial visit will include a full health check, vaccinations, deworming, and advice on nutrition and behaviour.