Circumstances such as a rescued kitten, or other urgent adoption may make a pre-adoption vet visit impossible. In this situation, keep the new arrival quarrantined in a bathroom or other space that is separate from the other cats with a separate litter box, food and water bowls. This will reduce the change of spreading disease or parasites to the resident cats.
I see many kittens that are "available for adoption" at age 6 weeks. This is too young, in my opinion. If possible (i.e. the mother cat is still around and nursing the kittens), the kittens should be adopted out at age 9 or 10 weeks for optimal health, weaning time and socialization.
Typically the first vaccination is administered between age 7 to 9 weeks. A healthy mother cat who is up to date on her vaccinations will afford her kittens the best start in life. If your kitten is sneezing or having any other health problems, vaccinations will wait until he or she is healthy. It is also a good idea to bring in a fecal sample to test for intestinal parasites.
I realize that in many situations, kittens may not have this luxury of time before being placed in an adoptive home. If your kitten is young, especially younger than 6 weeks of age, please see your veterinarian immediately to assess the nutrition and hydration status and to provide assistance with any needed supplementation.
Related Reading:
- Is it OK to vaccinate my pet if she is pregnant or nursing?
- The First Vet Visit
From Franny Syufy, Guide to Cats - Cat Vaccination Information
As always, if you have any question about your cat or wonder when you should schedule an exam, please call your vet to discuss. Establishing a relationship with your vet and a new pet is always smoother in a non-emergency situation. Find out the clinic hours and who to call for emergencies will put you ahead of the game.
Photo credit: "mo vet" by Bill in Ash Vegas on Flickr
