Kitten Shots, Fleas
Hi, how old
is a kitten suppose to be to get their first shots? How well does the new
type flea control pill work? Is it just for indoor Kitties?
Kittens should have their first visit to the veterinarian between six and eight weeks of age. During this visit, the doctor will perform a thorough physical examination, looking for birth defects, tooth eruption, common kitten problems, etc. The doctor will also check a stool sample for parasites, and discuss feeding, fleas, grooming, spaying/neutering and other important topics. The first set of shots are given at this age also. Depending on your kitten's future plans for living in or out of doors, other cats in your household, etc. The doctor may recommend leukemia testing and different vaccination protocols too suit your needs.
The best two new flea products on the market are Advantage® and Program®. Both should only be given to kittens older than three months. Advantage is a topical liquid, applied monthly. Advantage is very safe, and kills and repels fleas. Program is an oral liquid given to cats monthly. Program causes flea eggs not to hatch, but doesn't kill or repel fleas. Indoor and outdoor kittens should be vaccinated. Flea control may or may not be necessary for indoor cats. Start control when you suspect fleas in the area.
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