Caring for Your Kitten

Congratulations on your new kitten!

Welcoming a kitten into your life is exciting. Cats are affectionate, playful companions and can bring years of joy. While they are generally independent, they still rely on you for proper care to stay happy and healthy.

Feeding

Balanced Diet

Cats must eat a meat based, complete and balanced diet. Fresh meat, milk or table scraps alone are not enough.

Water

Always provide fresh, clean water.

Recommended Food

We suggest and stock Hill’s Science Diet or Royal Canin, both are scientifically formulated with the right nutrients.

Feeding Routine

• Feed a kitten growth diet
• Small wet meals 3 to 5 times per day initially
• Reduce to 2 meals per day by 6 to 12 months
• Leave dry food out for grazing
• Transition to an adult diet at 12 months over 7 to 10 days

Milk

Not necessary. Some cats tolerate it, but many develop upset stomachs. Use lactose free options if needed.

Dental Support

Offer chewy foods such as raw chicken necks or meat strips to help maintain dental health.

Supplements

Not required if your kitten is on a complete and balanced diet.

Vaccinations

Kittens need a full vaccination course by 16 weeks of age.

Core vaccine (F3) protects against:

• Feline enteritis
• Feline respiratory disease

FIV vaccine

Recommended for outdoor cats. It is spread through bite wounds and weakens the immune system.

• Requires a blood test if over 6 months
• Typically given alongside final kitten vaccinations

Annual health checks and vaccinations are required for life.

Worming

Kittens are often born with worms passed on from their mother.

Treatment schedule

• Every 2 weeks until 12 weeks of age
• Monthly until 6 months
• Then monthly or quarterly depending on the product used

Weigh your kitten before dosing to ensure the correct amount.

Tapeworms are linked to fleas, so flea control is essential.

Flea Control

Even indoor cats can get fleas.

Fleas can cause:

• Skin irritation
• Allergies
• Disease transmission

Only a small percentage of fleas live on your pet. Most are in the environment.

Recommended products

• Nexgard Spectra
• Bravecto Spot on

Flea collars and powders are generally less effective.

Pet Insurance

Pet insurance is strongly recommended to help cover unexpected accidents or illnesses.

• Best taken out while your kitten is young
• Helps avoid exclusions for pre existing conditions
• Policies vary in what they cover

Desexing

Desexing is recommended at 5 to 6 months of age.

Benefits include:

• Reduced roaming, spraying and fighting
• Prevention of uterine infections
• Reduced risk of mammary tumours

Anaesthesia and Blood Testing

Your cat may require anaesthesia during their life for procedures such as desexing or dental care.

Modern anaesthetics are safe and closely monitored by trained staff.

Blood testing

• Pre anaesthetic blood tests are recommended
• Routine blood testing at 5 and 10 years of age
• Yearly testing if your cat is on medication

Heartworm

Heartworm is rare in cats but can be serious.

It may cause:

• Breathing issues
• Vomiting
• Sudden collapse

Monthly prevention is recommended.

Training and Behaviour

Yes, cats can be trained.

Use positive reinforcement such as treats and praise. Keep sessions short and enjoyable.

Handling

Handle your kitten daily to help them become comfortable with grooming, medication, and vet visits.

Litter training

• Provide one litter tray per cat plus one extra
• Place trays in quiet, accessible areas
• Clean daily

Enrichment

Indoor cats need stimulation to stay happy:

• Toys
• Scratching posts
• Shelves and climbing areas
• Tunnels and boxes

Public Health

Good hygiene helps protect both your family and your pet.

• Wash hands after handling cats
• Worm pets regularly
• Cover sandpits
• Pregnant women should avoid handling cat faeces due to toxoplasmosis risk

Identification and Microchipping

Cats should wear a quick release collar with an ID tag.

Microchipping is essential and often legally required.

Register your cat with your local council from 3 months of age.

Stay Informed

Staying informed helps you provide the best care for your kitten.

Regular updates, reminders, and advice can support you through each stage of your pet’s life.

Need Help or Have Questions?

If you are unsure about any part of your kitten’s care, you are not alone.

Our team can help with:

• Creating a care plan
• Answering questions
• Supporting you through each stage
• Making sure your kitten gets the best start

If you have any questions, feel free to get in touch. We are always happy to help guide you.

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