Kitten Health

Vaccination

Cats are vaccinated for Feline Enteritis, Calicivirus and Herpesvirus (cat flu). Kittens should have three vaccinations. The first is at 6-8 weeks, the second at 10-12 weeks, and then the third at 16 weeks of age. Adults cats then have annual booster vaccinations. If you have an unvaccinated older cat or have missed a vaccination in a few years, then two vaccinations a month apart should be given, followed by annual booster vaccinations. 

We also offer Feline AIDs (FIV) vaccination at Heritage Veterinary Clinic. FIV is transmitted through cat bites. Prevalence in Victoria is 14-22%. Vaccination for FIV is approximately 86% protective. The FIV vaccination protocol is three vaccinations 2-4 weeks apart, followed by annual boosters. If your cat is 6 months of age or older then an FIV test is required before vaccination begins. We also recommend that your cat is microchipped if FIV vaccination is done. For more information about vaccination, please contact our clinic.

Intestinal Worming

Intestinal worming should be done once a month for the first 6 months of life then every 3 months for the rest of the cat's life.

Heartworm

Heartworm is not as prevalent in cats compared to dogs. We recommend Revolution if you would like your cat to be covered for heartworm.

Desexing

Desexing can be done from 4 months of age. If symptoms of 'calling' begin in a younger female cat, desexing is recommended as soon as possible to prevent pregnancy. Female cats that have had a litter may be desexed 6 weeks after giving birth to prevent her from falling pregnant again. Desexing prevents unwanted pregnancies and kittens, reduces the incidents of cat fights, roaming and urine spraying.

Flea Control

The best products for flea control are Revolution, Frontline or Advantage. It is safe to use on kittens from 8 weeks of age. Flea control is done once a month applied on the back of the neck. These products are superior to flea shampoos, flea collars and spot-on products from the supermarket as they kill fleas on contact before the flea has a chance to bite the cat.

Microchip

Every cat should have a microchip. It increases the chance for the return of your pet if it is lost or escapes. Our microchips come with a lifetime microchip registration with a national registry, Central Animal Records. Your details can be changed at no cost to you. As of May 2007, all new cats that are registered with the council will need a microchip. By the end of 2007, microchip will become compulsory.  

Council Registration

Please remember to register your cat with the council to avoid fines. Registration is required for pets 3 months of age or older. Registration is discounted if your cat has a microchip or is desexed. Please contact your council to obtain the necessary forms.

Annual Visit

It is important that your cat has an annual check up with the vet in order to maintain your cats health and for early pick up of possible diseases. At 10 years of age, we also recommend to do a general blood profile.

Feeding

Kittens from weaning up to 4 months of age should be fed three times a day. Two meals are preferred after 4 months of age. A premium quality kitten food should be fed until 12 months of age then changed to a reputable adult food. A daily raw chicken wing or neck should also be offered to keep their teeth clean.

Grooming

Especially medium to long haired cats require daily brushing. Most cat will keep their coat knot free but as they get older may become slack in grooming. A comb is used to removed knots and then a slicker brush to remove excess hair. If your cat is very matted we can arrange to sedate your cat for a full body groom.

Cat Boarding

Heritage Veterinary Clinic offers 5 cat boarding apartments for cats. Your cat must be vaccinated before being allowed to board with us. Bookings are essential. A deposit may be required at the time of booking. Please remember to book early to avoid disappointment, especially around the school holidays, easter and christmas as places fill up quickly.