Setting your kitten or cat up for a healthy life includes ensuring they are up to date on vaccinations and preventatives.
| Vaccination type | Frequency |
| Rabies | Yearly |
| Feline Distemper (FVRCP) | Every 3 years |
| Feline Leukemia | Yearly |
Rabies vaccination of cats 6 months of age and older is required by most cities. Please check your city ordinance for specific information.
Preventatives
If your cat spends time outdoors or shares a home with other pets who spend time outdoors you should consider a flea and tick preventative such as Nexgard Combo or Frontline Plus monthly.
Spay and neuter
Female kittens should be spayed at 5-6 months and adult female cats can be spayed at any time. Male kittens can be neutered at 5-6 months and adult male cats can be neutered at any time. Read more about why it’s important to spay or neuter your pet.
Grooming
To help avoid mats and hairballs, daily fur brushing can be helpful. Clipping nails once monthly can help prevent the nails from growing into the paw pads. Bathing can be done as needed but isn’t required regularly.
Annual Check-ups
Regularly scheduled check-ups are the best way to monitor your cat’s health as they grow and age. Your veterinarian will examine eyes, ears, teeth, coat, check the heart and lungs as well as feel the abdomen. We will help you stay current on vaccinations and taylor care plans for any concerns that you might have about your cat or kitten during all life stages.
Health concerns
Signs you should bring your kitten or cat in to see one of our doctors include daily vomiting, diarrhea that lasts more than 2-3 days, decreased food and/or water intake, increased hiding, or not acting like their normal selves. Cats hide illness well, checking early can help prevent serious illness and hospitalization.
If you have questions about your pet’s health please call Family Pet Veterinary at 319-643-3555 and one of our staff will be happy to talk through your concerns.