Caring for Puppies & Kittens 6 Months or Younger

Examination by the Doctor

A Doctors Examination is critical before initiating Comprehensive Healthcare for all new puppies and kittens.  An examination by one of our Doctors of Veterinary Medicine is the most important first step to assure your pet’s well being.  They are trained and have the experience to identify any problems that may arise during this early phase of life for your new family member.

Disease Detection and Prevention

Puppies and kittens need protection from early childhood diseases.  Routine vaccines provide protection against fatal viral infections that are impossible to treat.  All new kittens are checked for the two viral infections; feline leukemia and feline aids.  Hidden problems like heart defects and other genetic disorders are commonly identified by our professional staff.  Mange mites, ear mites, skin infections similar to impetigo in humans and other skin issues such fungal infections known as “ringworm” are common in our puppies and kittens.

Parasite control

Both internal and external parasites are common in our new patients.  Puppies and kittens should be examined for the presence of microscopic parasitic ova (worm eggs) in their feces.  There are many different types of intestinal parasites. Hook worms, round worms, whip worms, tape worms, coccidia, amoeba and giardia are just a few. The fecal exam will identify which type of intestinal parasite is present and what medication is needed to treat that particular parasite.  It is important to remember that almost all puppies and kittens have intestinal parasites and some of these can infect humans as well. External parasites found in the skin and ears are common.  If needed, a skin scraping may be performed to help our doctors make appropriate treatment recommendations.  In addition to any parasite found during routine testing, all puppies and kittens should receive routine prophylactic deworming.

puppies and kitten


What to Expect from Your Puppy or Kitten's First Exam

If you just brought a puppy or kitten into your household to join your family, you are likely to want to give them the best possible start with a proper puppy and kitten care routine and a check of their health. Contact Pet Vet Hospitals to meet with our veterinarian in Houston as soon as you possibly can to ensure your pet is evaluated so medical conditions can be dealt with quickly should they arise. Here is some information about what you can expect at your puppy or kitten's first examination appointment.

Questions Will Be Asked Before The Exam

Our veterinarian will ask you a few questions pertaining to your new pet so they have an idea about their general health and background. This will include whether your kitten or puppy is a purebred, obtained from someone you knew, or if they were found as a stray or through a pet store or humane society. This will give our practitioner an indication of the care their mother had received, helping to pinpoint whether offspring may have medical difficulties. You will be asked about your pet's habits and eating patterns as well.

Vital Information Is Obtained

After the discussion about your pet, our veterinarian will document some vital information so a history of your kitten or puppy's growth and physical features are obtained. Our vet will weigh your pet, listen to its heart and lungs, and take its temperature. 

A Complete Examination Is Conducted

During the main portion of your pet's exam, our vet will check over your kitten or puppy's entire body in detail. This includes looking at your pet's eyes, teeth, genitalia, ears, and mouth for any telltale signs of a medical problem. Your pet's skin is assessed for allergic reactions, cuts, bruises, and bumps. Its fur is checked to ensure it is not matted or dry. If you provide our vet with a stool sample, it will be assessed for the presence of roundworms so treatment can be administered if necessary. Your pet's abdomen is also checked for abnormalities.

Questions Will Be Addressed About Puppy And Kitten Care

If you have questions pertaining to your pet's diet or care, our vet will provide you with their recommendations. Our vet will also talk with you about immunizations, microchipping, spaying or neutering. Further appointments will be needed for these services. If you have concerns, be sure to jot them down before your pet's appointment so our vet can address them as needed.

If you are ready to bring your pet to our veterinarian in Houston, simply contact Pet Vet Hospitals to make an appointment. Call us today at (281) 879-PETS.

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Baybrook

Monday:

7:00 am-7:00 pm

Tuesday:

7:00 am-7:00 pm

Wednesday:

7:00 am-6:00 pm

Thursday:

7:00 am-7:00 pm

Friday:

7:00 am-7:00 pm

Saturday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Sunday:

10:00 am-4:00 pm