Your kitten's basic health check

Your new kitten should visit a veterinary surgeon as soon as possible. The first visit will probably include: 

• A thorough physical examination to determine his/her state of health.
• Check for parasites (fleas, ticks, lice, ear mites, worms).
• Initial vaccination and/or a discussion of the types of vaccinations your kitten needs and when they should be scheduled.
• Discussion about whether your kitten should be neutered and when.

This first health check will give your veterinary surgeon the information he/she needs to advise you on your kitten's immediate diet and care. Plus, it will create a "knowledge base" from which, on subsequent checkups throughout your cat's life, he/she can better evaluate, monitor and manage your pet's health.