Welcoming Your Kitten to Santaluz
At Santaluz Animal Care, we believe our feline friends deserve specialized care from day one! Our cat-friendly practice and Fear-Free techniques ensure your kitten’s veterinary experiences are positive and stress-free. Read on to discover how we’ll help your tiny tiger grow into a healthy, confident cat!
Your kitten’s first visit (typically around 8-9 weeks) is about more than just vaccines. We perform a complete wellness exam tailored to feline health, checking everything from those tiny needle teeth to making sure both eyes and ears are developing normally. Our gentle, cat-specific handling techniques mean your kitten learns that vet visits aren’t scary. They might even be fun with all those treats!
First Visit Components
- Comprehensive kitten exam: Complete physical assessment including heart, lungs, and developmental milestones.
- FeLV/FIV testing: Important blood tests to screen for feline viruses, especially for adopted kittens.
- Core vaccinations: Starting the FVRCP series to protect against serious feline diseases.
- Parasite prevention: Deworming and monthly flea prevention sized just right for tiny kittens.
- Nutrition guidance: Feeding recommendations for optimal growth and development.
- Environmental enrichment tips: Setting up your home for a happy, well-adjusted cat.
Kitten Wellness Schedule
- 8-9 weeks: First FVRCP vaccine, FeLV/FIV testing, deworming
- 12-13 weeks: Second FVRCP, possible FeLV vaccine, continued parasite prevention
- 16+ weeks: Final kitten vaccines including Rabies
- 6 months: Spay/neuter surgery—before sexual maturity!
- Monthly: Parasite prevention to keep your kitten healthy
Creating a Cat-Friendly Home
- Litter box success: One box per cat plus one extra, placed in quiet, accessible locations.
- Vertical territory: Cat trees and shelves let your kitten climb and survey their kingdom.
- Scratching posts: Both horizontal and vertical options to satisfy natural scratching needs.
- Interactive play: Daily play sessions with wand toys help burn energy and build your bond.
- Safe spaces: Cozy hiding spots where your kitten can retreat when overwhelmed.
Schedule Your Kitten’s First Visit
At Santaluz Animal Care, we’re passionate about giving kittens the best start in life. Have a new kitten or planning to adopt? Call us at (858) 258-5590 to schedule your kitten’s first Fear-Free visit and receive our new kitten starter kit!