Puppies & Kittens

The doctors and staff of Cherokee Animal Hospital want to make sure that your puppies and kittens get the absolute best start on life as a healthy puppy or kitten has the greatest chance of thriving in your home and growing up to be a well-loved member of your family. Even the puppies and kittens that appear to be healthy should be evaluated by your veterinarian within a few days of entering your home. This way we can thoroughly assess the little one's health, answer any questions, and forge a special bond between your young pet and our office staff.

The Right Start Requires the Right Care!

• ALL puppies and kittens require veterinary care to make sure that they get the best start for a long and healthy life. Their moms' milk is not adequate protection against disease!
• ALL puppies and kittens need a complete physical examination and a few laboratory tests to make sure that any potential problems are promptly diagnosed and quickly treated.
• ALL puppies and kittens need a series of several vaccinations and de-wormings over their first few months. Even if you acquire a new family member that is a bit older, they too should go through this initial evaluation as they often still need dewormings and additional vaccinations.
• Drs. Bryant and Jenkins recommend the following first steps for your young pets:
  
  1. First physical examination at 6 weeks of age to make sure that the little one is growing properly and that no congenital problems exist. This hands-on physical is quite extensive and includes examining the eyes, ears, mouth and teeth for proper development, as well as checking the heart for murmurs, and making sure that the pet's organs and musculoskeletal system are growing correctly.
  2. First vaccination at 6 weeks of age, then every 3 weeks until at least 15 weeks of age. For most pets, the vaccinations will be a combination injection of several protective vaccines. Some will be injected under the skin; others given as nose drops.
  3. First rabies vaccination at 15-16 weeks of age. All pets, including indoor cats, require a vaccination to protect against rabies. This vaccine is boostered one year later then, regularly thereafter.
  4. Firsts for Puppies and Kittens - In addition to vaccines, they also need fecal testing for intestinal parasites and treatment as recommended. They will need to start on heartworm and flea preventives early on as well. Finally, kittens require one additional step that tests for both feline leukemia and FIV.

The doctors and staff at Cherokee Animal Hospital are happy to discuss nutrition and behavior to make recommendations regarding diet, early training, socialization, house-training, and puppy classes. We are eager to provide practical tips and suggestions for many issues and welcome questions. We look forward to meeting the newest additions to your family.