Kittens make adorable pets, and then they grow into beautiful cats who will cuddle up next to you on the couch. Although puppies and dogs are popular pets, cats can be a great choice, too, and are much more affectionate than their reputation implies. However, they can be more independent than dogs in a lot of ways, so this is why they are ideal for those who can’t commit to daily walks or need to leave the house for long periods throughout the day. If you are more of a cat person and have chosen to bring a kitten home as your new pet, here are some of the basic healthcare steps you need to take in the first year.

1. Initial Health Check

When you agree to adopt or buy a new kitten, you might find that the previous carers have already taken your cat for check-ups and vaccinations. It is important to get this information from them so you know where the kitten’s healthcare journey is up to. Even if the kitten has been taken to see a vet, it’s still a good idea to get them checked over yourself with the vet clinic you have registered at. This will give you better peace of mind over your kitten’s health and can allow you to communicate directly with the vet rather than relying on second-hand information. If you need to find a new vet for your kitten, search for clinics like Easyvet.com, as they’re a great example of what you should be looking for.

2. Worm and Flea Treatments

Cats get worms frequently, whether they stay inside or not. Your vet should be able to provide your kitten with the right dosage of worming treatments and flea treatments in their first few months. As your kitten gets older, you might feel happy to order these treatments online or buy them at your local pet store rather than getting them directly from your vet. The latter might be the preferable choice, however, if you are unsure of the right dosage or feel more comfortable with ordering these treatments from the vet.

3. Vaccinations

You will also need to get your kitten the right vaccinations, as mentioned previously. These vaccinations can require two rounds of injections, so your kitten may only have had one set before you brought them home. Again, always ask the previous carer about vaccination history so you can relay this information to your kitten’s vet. These vaccinations will need to be given to your cat annually to protect against rabies and other viruses. Your kitten shouldn’t be allowed out of the house until their vaccinations have been given.

4. Spaying or Neutering

If you don’t want to avoid unwanted pregnancies, then having your kitten fixed at the appropriate age will be necessary. This will be up to the owner’s discretion, but it is worth noting that not having this done could not only result in pregnancy but in a behavior change as well. Male cats might become more aggressive if they are not castrated, and you might also experience them spraying in your house too.

If you are planning to bring a kitten into your life, make sure you are taking these basic healthcare steps to help them thrive.