His first trip to the vet

An important part of your responsibility as an owner of a new kitten is taking him to the vet regularly, not least to ensure he gets the vaccinations to protect him against a whole range of dangerous diseases.

The journey

Kittens are often afraid when taken to the vet for the first time. If they haven’t been in the car before, all the new sounds and smells can make them very stressed. A cat carrier is the best way to transport your kitten. It’s too easy to escape from an ordinary cardboard box and carrying him in your arms is not really a good idea. Make sure the cat carrier has a secure lock and place something with his smell on it inside to make him feel more secure. The blanket from his basket is perfect. You could even prepare him for travel from the start by letting him use his carrier as a bed or hiding place. That way, he won’t associate his carrier simply with the trauma of going to the vet.

At the vet’s

Once you have arrived at the vet’s, keep your kitten inside his carrier. The waiting room may well be busy and he can easily be intimidated by barking dogs and other cats. To make the experience as stress-free as possible, put a toy in the carrier and take a few treats with you to divert his attention. When it’s his turn to be seen by the vet, stay with him. Stroking and talking to him will help him feel more secure, and the vet will appreciate your assistance. If his first visit is a success so in all probability will his future ones.

What next?

Once the vet has looked at your kitten, he’ll give you detailed information about the necessary vaccinations. From the second month onwards, these are vaccinations against Cat Flu, Feline Leukaemia, Feline Panleucopenia and Feline Pneumonitis. The vet will administer each of these injections, at intervals of about four weeks. Most vaccinations have to be repeated annually, and regular treatment for worms is also essential for your kitten’s well-being.

Your first visit over, it’s home for a well-earned rest. Just remember to keep your vaccination timetable handy, so you know when he needs to make his next trip.