Our top tips for basic feline health.

If you would like advice or are concerned about anything, call Priory Veterinary Group on 01202 484466 and we will be happy to help.

VaccinationsYour kitten will need a first vaccination between 8-9 weeks of age, followed by a second one 3-4 weeks later. They will be fully protected from 3 weeks after the course of vaccinations. After this your cat will need yearly booster vaccinations to protect them from cat flu, feline enteritis and leukemia. We will give your cat a full physical examination at their annual booster and it is a good opportunity to raise any concerns.

Litter box trainingFor a single cat home a minimum of 2 litter boxes are needed. When you bring your cat home for the first time, show them where the litter boxes are immediately. Place your cat or kitten in the litter tray after meals or if you see them sni�ng around, crouching or acting as if they need to toilet. Place litter boxes in calm, quiet and private locations, away from their bed. Empty the litter boxes regularly and clean with hot water and detergent. Do not use disinfectants or bleach as these are toxic. Accidents do happen. Try not to punish but reward and praise good behaviour.

Parasite ControlPreventing fleas, worms and ticks from a�ecting your cat is easy and important as they can be severely irritating and can lead to more serious problems. The most common flea preventions are given as a monthly spot on. All pets in the household need to be treated to break the life cycle. The environment your pet lives in (carpets and beds etc) needs to be treated as well. Wormers are available in a tablet or spot on form and should be given every at least every three months. It is important to buy your parasite treatments from a vet as we are able to dispense advanced treatments which will be more e�ective for parasite control than non prescription medications.

Highcli�e Surgery • Tel: 01425 273102301 Lymington Road, Highcli�e BH23 5EG

Bransgore Surgery • Tel: 01425 674080Ringwood Road, Bransgore BH23 8AA

Christchurch Surgery & Hospital • Tel: 01202 48446659 Purewell, Christchurch BH23 1EN

CHARMING CATS

@prioryvetgroup

Nutrition and diet The amount of food your kitten will need will change during their first year as they grow. We recommend feeding a set amount of an appropriate diet at mealtimes, rather than ad lib feeding. Milk can lead to diarrhoea so should be avoided. Feed a kitten diet until 12 months of age then gradually transition to an adult diet over 7 days. A diet specifically for neutered cats is recommended and this should be fed from when they are neutered. Once they are 7 years old, a senior diet is recommended to provide additional support and the correct balance of nutrients. It is really important to keep your cat at a healthy weight as being under or over this is a leading factor in many diseases

NeuteringSexual maturity occurs in cats at around 4 months, even though they are not adult yet. Neutering can prevent diseases including mammary and testicular tumours and pyometra. It can also help prevent many behavioural issues and will reduce the number of unwanted kittens.Cat castration is advisable from 5 months. Cat spays can be done from 5 months onwards.

MirochippingWe strongly recommend microchipping your cat. This is invaluable for reuniting lost pets and helps identify strays. It can be done when they have their first vaccination or during the neutering operation.

GroomingGrooming is important for your cat's health and a great way to spend quality time with them. ·Establish a regular location and time for grooming. ·Brush in the direction of hair growth. Long haired cats should be groomed every day, short haired cats may only need to be groomed once a week. Grooming is also a good opportunity to check your cat's ears for dirt, debris or redness.

Priory Veterinary Group has been caring for pets in the Christchurch area for over 50 years. As the only RCVS approved veterinary Hospital in Dorset we provide the very best care for your pets 24 hours a day. We have three conveniently located branches with plenty of free o� street parking. You can register on our website or give us a call and our friendly team will be happy to help you. We look forward to meeting you and your pet.

Highcli�e Surgery • Tel: 01425 273102301 Lymington Road, Highcli�e BH23 5EG

Bransgore Surgery • Tel: 01425 674080Ringwood Road, Bransgore BH23 8AA

Christchurch Surgery & Hospital • Tel: 01202 48446659 Purewell, Christchurch BH23 1EN

@prioryvetgroup