VACCINES

FVRCP-C vaccine

Also known as feline distemper combination, this vaccine helps to protect kittens against 4 common but serious respiratory viral diseases.  All kittens should be vaccinated beginning at 6 weeks of age.  They need to receive at least 2 vaccines after the age of 9 weeks, so most kittens receive a series of 3 vaccines for complete protection.  This vaccine is boostered yearly.

Rabies Vaccine

All cats, indoors or out, should be vaccinated for protection against rabies.  The first vaccine is usually given after the series of kitten distemper vaccines and will give protection for one year.  After that, the vaccine will be given once every 3 years.

Feline Leukemia

We strongly recommend that cats who go outside at all be kept vaccinated against feline leukemia.  All cats should be tested at least once to determine if they are carrying the feline leukemia or aids (FIV) viruses in their bodies.  Both disease occur in our area, and are transmitted from infected cats.   We do recommend testing and vaccinating indoor cats as well, in case they slip outside or are exposed to a new cat.  All cats who go outside need to be tested and vaccinated annually.  There is no vaccine against feline aids.  Keeping cats indoors is their best protection.

PARASITES

Intestinal Parasites

Internal parasites commonly encountered in kittens include roundworms and coccidia.  All are easily treatable.  Since it is possible for people (especially children--wash those hands!) to contract parasites from animals, we strongly recommend fecal examinations for all kittens.

Fleas

We recommend Frontline Top-Spot that is applied to the skin between the shoulder blades once a month or a monthly tablet called Program to help prevent or control flea problems.  We will also be happy to discuss safe, effective products for use on your pets as well as for your house and yard.

SPAY/NEUTER

Having your cat spayed (females) or neutered (males) does more than just prevent unwanted kittens.  It is important preventative medicine.  Spayed or neutered cats live an average of 1-2 years longer than intact animals.  Females spayed before they first heat cycle are almost entirely protected against mammary (breast) cancer.  Spaying also protects against reproductive tumors and diseases.  Neutered males are less likely to mark by urine spraying, and less likely to want OT roam or fight.  We recommend all cats be spayed or neutered at 6 months of age.

PERMANENT IDENTIFICATION

We recommend microchip identification for all pets.  A small computer chip is inserted under the skin which can be detected by scanners at animal shelters, humane societies, as well as many veterinary clinics.  To date, the AKC has a 100% success rate in recovering microchipped animals.  Visit the Home Again website for more information about microchip identification for your pet.