Keeping Your Kitten Protected: Fleas, Worms and Heartworm

Young kittens are naturally curious and playful, and keeping up with preventative care is one of the most important things you can do for their health. The good news is that protecting your kitten from common parasites is straightforward, and we are here to make it easy.

Worming

Kittens can be born with worms or pick them up from their environment, other animals, or their mother. The most common types are roundworm, hookworm, and tapeworm. Without regular worming, kittens can experience poor growth, a bloated belly, vomiting, or diarrhoea. Some worms can also be passed to humans, so regular treatment protects the whole family.

Worming Schedule

• Every two weeks until 12 weeks of age
• Monthly from 12 weeks until six months of age
• Every three months for life from six months onwards

Flea Prevention

Fleas can make kittens extremely uncomfortable, but the impact goes beyond itchiness. They can cause anaemia in young kittens through blood loss from repeated bites, trigger allergic skin reactions, and spread tapeworms. Even indoor cats are not fully protected, as fleas can enter the home on clothing, shoes, and other pets.

Signs of fleas include excessive scratching, biting at the skin, or tiny black specks (flea dirt) in the fur, particularly around the tail and belly.

We recommend starting flea prevention from six to eight weeks of age and continuing monthly all year round. We recommend vet-approved treatments rather than collars or powders, which are less reliable and not always safe for kittens.

Heartworm Prevention

Heartworm is spread by mosquitoes and can be serious in cats. Unlike in dogs, there is no safe treatment for cats once they are infected, which makes prevention especially important. Prevention begins at twelve weeks of age and continues monthly for life. Ask our team about the best product for your kitten's age and lifestyle.

All-in-One Products

Many of the products we recommend combine protection against worms, fleas, and heartworm in a single monthly treatment, and some also cover mites depending on the brand. We will help you choose the right product for your kitten's age, weight, and lifestyle so you have confidence they are fully covered.

Book a Nurse Consult

Not sure which products are right for your kitten? Book a free nurse consult online, or give us a call on (03) 9592 9811. We are always happy to talk through your options.