By Dr. Katie Volat, DVM
Summer is puppy and kitten season! Who can resist those tiny paws and soft bellies?! It is such a fun and joyous time to have a new furry baby arrive in the home. The time can fly by so quickly that it is important to remember that they need more than cuddles, food, and a few toys. If you want to raise the perfect pup or kitten, it only takes a few important steps to ensure a long life free of as many health and behavioral issues as possible.
Here are my top 10 key health tips to give your puppy or kitten the best possible start to a healthy and problem-free life:
Nutrition. Arguably the most important daily influence you may have on your new pet. Choose wisely–a grain-free, high-quality diet is best. Look for the AAFCO seal on the package to ensure it is a balanced diet containing all the nutrients your little furball needs to grow into a strong and healthy adult. Always take time to slowly transition from one food to the next to allow your pup or kitten’s digestion time to adjust. Variety is usually not a good idea for most pets, especially young ones.
Socialization. Puppies and kittens need to experience new things early in order to be comfortable later in life when meeting new people and other pets. Lack of socialization and the development of phobias is subtle at first, but can become one of the most difficult problems later in life.
As early as possible, it is crucial to introduce your puppy and kitten to as many people as you can…this includes children, adults, women, men, big people, small people and all other varieties of people you can find. Have a party and invite everyone over to meet your new addition. This will ensure that you have a pet that is comfortable with all types of people, not just your family members.
Grooming. Trimming toenails, bathing and cleaning ears are a part of life. The earlier your pup or kitten learns this, the easier it will be. Start with gentle, quick sessions of handling toes and ears. Your new pet will need some time to get comfortable with all the handling so take plenty of time to ensure that process is a positive one, and get help from your veterinarian to show you how to perform basic grooming tasks.
Dental Health. One of the best investments of your time will be starting a dental health routine early. To get started, simply have your pet get used to the idea by touching their mouth and teeth. Once they are comfortable with having their mouth checked out, you can start doing a bit of brushing a few times a week.
Training. An obedience or training class is a great way for puppies to meet other puppies for the first time…just like pre-school!
You and your puppy can bond while learning basic obedience skills like sit, stay, walking on leash, and other essentials.
Exercise. Kittens and puppies need play time to burn energy. Take 20 to 30 minutes each day to play with your new arrival. You can incorporate basic training during this time, to make learning fun!
Vaccinations. All puppies and kittens need a series of vaccinations starting at 7 to 8 weeks and ending around 16 weeks. We have deadly viruses in our area that can be easily avoided with vaccinations. It is also crucially important to not take your puppies out to public areas until they are fully vaccinated. If you are not sure, ask your veterinarian. It is extremely rare that a puppy or kitten leaves the shelter or breeder with all his shots.
Wellness Physical Exams. At least once a year your puppy or kitten should have a complete physical exam performed by your veterinarian. This will ensure preventable conditions are caught early.
Parasite Prevention. It is hard to avoid parasites…they are everywhere, especially in our mild Santa Cruz climate. Some parasites are easy to see, but others are microscopic. Parasite prevention is a simple step that can avoid a lot of health issues and expense down the road. It is also important to avoid parasites spreading to other family members, especially children. Your veterinarian will be able to help you decide which preventatives your new pup or kitten needs based on his lifestyle.
Insurance. Most puppies and kittens get into trouble. Being in a new home is stressful, so their little immune systems are put to work. Some will catch respiratory infections, some will have digestive issues, but others will get hurt while navigating their new surroundings. All kinds of things can happen to a new pet, so it is important to prepare. Pet insurance may be an excellent idea, or alternatively, start a savings account for your new pet. Having a plan early will take a lot of the stress away if and when something happens.
The first few months of life are a critical window for establishing good habits that will pay off for years to come. Good luck and enjoy your new furry family member!