Why you're as important as the vet to your kitten's health
A good healthcare routine for your kitten starts at home. Just as in humans, prevention is much better than cure. As the person who knows your kitten best of all, nobody could be better qualified than you to become the 'eyes' and 'ears' of your vet.
Good habits start young
It's important you get your kitten used to being regularly handled and checked over by you. This makes life a lot easier for everyone. Here are some things to look out for:
Is your kitten getting fat?
You don't want your kitten piling on the pounds. But being underweight isn't good either and can be a sign of illness. Your vet should keep a record of your kitten's weight and growth. You can also ask your vet for the best way to track your kitten's growth yourself to ensure that she is on track to grow up happy and healthy.
If you're at all worried about your kitten's weight, book an appointment with your vet.
Does your kitten's coat look healthy?
Your kitten's coat should gleam with health. Check it for flakes, scales or cuts. Are there any fleas or flea dirt in evidence? Is her coat dull or matted - this could indicate a nutrient deficiency or disease. Talk to your vet if you're worried.
Tasty Tips
Check your kitten's, eyes and ears
Look closely at your kitten's eyes. Is there any discharge? Are the whites free of any redness? Gently pull down the lower eyelid - this area should be pink.
Now have a look at her ears. These should be clean, pink, free of dirt and free of any strong odor. Check for wax, especially dark wax, which may be a sign or ear mites or infection.
Any worries you have about your kitten's eyes or ears should be discussed with your vet.
Check your kitten's teeth and gums
Gently open your kitten's mouth. Do her gums look pink and healthy? Are her teeth free of tartar build-up (which looks yellow or brown in color)? You shouldn't usually find any tartar deposits on kittens' teeth. Does her breath smell ok?
Dental problems in cats are very common. You can help by getting into the habit of cleaning your kitten's teeth three times a week. Meat and fish flavored cat toothpaste can be bought from most vets and pet food shops. A small soft children's toothbrush is fine, just make sure you keep it completely separate from the rest of the family's brushes. Alternatively, you can buy special cat toothbrushes from your vet.
Once your kitten is an adult, your vet may recommend feeding Science Diet Adul Oral Care cat food. This has been shown to significantly reduce the build up of plaque, tartar and stains.
Inspect your kitten's claws and footpads
Are they free of cuts and cracks?
Do her nails need a trim?
Know what's normal for your kitten
Perhaps the most important part of any home health check is simply learning what's 'normal' for your kitten. Are there any unusual lumps or bumps, for example? If there's anything that worries you, call your vet straight away.
Related products
Adult Perfect Weight with Chicken Cat Food
Breakthrough nutrition for your cat’s healthy weight maintenance and long-lasting weight support
Adult Salmon & Brown Rice Recipe Cat Food
Supports lean muscle and beautiful fur for adult cats
Kitten with Turkey Wet Food
Delicious turkey chunks in gravy with omega-3 fatty acids for eye health and brain development in kittens, and high-quality protein to support muscle growth. Balanced levels of minerals for strong bones and teeth.
Adult Urinary Hairball Control Tender Chicken Dinner Cat Food
Precisely balanced nutrition to support urinary health from kidney to bladder. With natural fibre technology to help reduce hairballs.
Related articles
Brushing & Food: Keys to Maintaining Your Cat's Oral Health
Get helpful information on proper feline oral healthcare and why it's so vital to take care of your cat's teeth.
Common Health Concerns in an Overweight Cat
As a responsible pet owner you owe it to yourself and your cat to understand problems associated with overweight cats.
Caring for Your Cat Through All of Life's Stages
HillsPet Nutrition provides information on proper nutrition, fitness and special needs in keeping your cat healthy and happy.
Weight Gain in Your Cat & How You Can Help
Being overweight puts a cat at risk for developing many serious health issues. Weight gain indicates an increase in body fat and usually results when your cat eats too much and exercises too little.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.