Puppy & Kitten Hospital in Voorhees
Veterinary Care for Puppy or Kitten
Bringing a new puppy or kitten home is an exciting time! This cute, cuddly new family member can't help but make everyone who interacts with them smile.
As much fun as this time can be, there is also some serious healthcare business to take care of during your new pet's first year of life.
The basic healthcare of puppies and kittens is a cooperative venture. There is no cookbook or cookie-cutter approach to their medical care, but rather, a personalized medical and training protocol arrived at by a consultation with your veterinarian.
Our team of veterinary professionals will develop a custom health care plan to meet your pet's specific needs during their first year, and provide you with plenty of support and guidance throughout the process.
During your pet's first visit at Voorhees Veterinary Center, be sure to ask your veterinarian any questions you may have to ensure you are completely clear on how you can best care for your new furry companion.
Your Pet’s First Appointment
Puppies should ideally have their first veterinary appointment around six weeks of age, and kittens between six and eight weeks.
During this initial visit, your pet will receive a complete physical examination to assess their overall health, look for signs of any congenital defects, and check for external parasites.
We will also administer deworming medications for roundworms and hookworms, and the first round of puppy or kitten vaccinations.
More About Vaccines & Prevention
Finally, for kittens, we will perform a blood test to check for feline leukemia and feline immunodeficiency virus.
Followup Appointments
Puppies begin their vaccination protocol and medical evaluation at 6 to 8 weeks of age. They traditionally have three visits in their first four months, after which they have completed their immunizations. At this time, they will begin a preventative care regimen which includes monthly parasite prevention and flea medications. Puppies are typically spayed or neutered when they are between six and ten months old.
Kittens should be seen three times during their first four months to insure complete vaccine protection and to observe normal growth patterns. At the age six months, spaying or neutering is recommended. This procedure (hysterectomy in females, castration is males) does not require an overnight stay.
Guidance for Puppy & Kitten Care
Bringing home a new puppy or kitten is a big responsibility and commitment. It is important to be aware of everything that comes along with caring for a puppy or kitten.
Our Voorhees vets will happily take time during your pet's appointment to provide you with all the information needed to give your new companion the best possible care. We will also provide plenty of guidance and support along the way.
Our kitten and puppy information packs contain everything you'll need to know about your pet’s early development, including:
- A schedule for vaccinations and medical care, based on your pet's age and development
- Information on spaying and neutering your pet
- Information on common medical problems, such as heartworm disease, feline leukemia, and zoonosis
- Tips on when to socialize your puppy or kitten with animals and people
Download Our Puppy Care Kit Download Our Kitten Care Kit
Our vets will be happy to answer any questions you may have, and make sure all of your concerns are explained in full so your new companion stays happy and healthy.
We will do everything in our power to make sure that you and your new puppy or kitten have everything you need to begin a wonderful life together!