Disease Prevention and Control

Feline “Distemner” is a common viral infection of cats causing severe debilitation, intestinal upset and frequently resulting in death. An effective vaccination schedule should begin at 6-8 weeks of age and consists of a series of three to four vaccinations. A yearly booster maintains immunity.

Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calici Virus and Chlamydia are all long technical names for three upper respiratory infections that cause periodic epidemics in our area. These viruses can occur even in cats completely confined indoors. They can cause severe, acute or chronic coughs, sneezing, sinusitis, pneumonia, gum disease, or even abortion.

Feline Leukemia Virus is an extremely complex disease that can cause a wide variety of symptoms by itself or in combination with other diseases. Feline Leukemia Virus is a deadly disease that is very contagious to cats. We recommend all cats or kittens be blood tested for the virus. This is especially important in multi-cat households or if your cat or kitten will be going outside. After a negative blood test for the virus is obtained your cat or kitten can then be vaccinated against the deadly disease.

Rabies has an increased incidence in cats. By Indiana law all cats must be vaccinated against rabies. A vaccination at 4 months of age, followed by a 1 year booster and then every 3 years thereafter.

Parasites

Intestinal Parasites:  Worm infestation in kittens can become severe if not diagnosed and treated. Infections are obtained from the mother while kittens are still in the uterus, from mother's milk, from contaminated environment, by hunting rodents, or from fleas. A microscopic examination of feces at the first visit and then yearly afterwards will reveal the type of parasites present and make a specific treatment possible.

External Parasites:

Ear Mites are small parasites related to spiders that frequently infect cat’s ears. The mites which are just barely visible with the eye cause severe irritation and bacterial infections. They are usually detected by the blackish-brown crusts they cause in the ear. They live in the cat’s ears, and are usually spread by direct contact.  Treatment begins with a thorough ear cleaning and the use of a recommended ear mite medication.

Fleas are a common problem of great importance in cats. Infestation may go unnoticed for a long time but can cause severe blood loss, severe irritation, and generally poor condition. Diagnosis can be made by seeing the fleas or the flea dirt (tiny black specs that will stain red when wet). Please call for proper treatment instructions because many products cannot be used on cats.

Nutrition

A "complete" kitten food should be fed.  An individual diet and feeding recommendation should be discussed with your veterinarian.  We suggest you avoid generic or "cheap" cat food.

Neutering

In the case of both a male or female kitten you will have to decide between neutering or keeping your cat as an intact adult. There are many medical and behavioral reasons for neutering you pet. Even though your kitten is very young, this may be the time to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of producing kittens. We recommend neutering the kitten at about 6 months of age.