First vet’s visit

WHAT IS THE VET LOOKING FOR?

As well as asking you some questions, so they start to get a picture of your kitten’s current health, he or she will give your kitten a thorough examination to check him over for any signs of illness or disability.They will examine your kitten’s mouth, teeth, and tongue to check for any sign of gum disease and to make sure his baby teeth are coming through.They’ll examine his eyes to check for symptoms of illnesses, including cat flu, and look in his ears for mites.

Your vet should also take your kitten’s temperature — a normal temperature for a kitten should be between 37 and 39°c (99-102°f).They should feel his abdomen to check for any lumps, as well as assessing his body condition to see if he is the right weight for his size.

Your vet should explain what they are doing throughout the examination, and a good vet will make sure your kitten is handled firmly, but gently.