If you've recently adopted a kitten into your family, one of the things that you're most likely to be concerned with is his kitten health. Kittens and other young animals are especially susceptible to certain types of diseases and other health problems, and recognizing them, treating them, and preventing them as efficiently as possible is oftentimes the key to helping your pet to survive until he builds up his strength and begins to grow. Fortunately, with the help of a good veterinarian, your cat will be protected from many of the common kitten health problems. Still, it's good to know what you face so that you can be prepared to stop them if necessary.
Kitten Diseases and Viruses
There are a variety of diseases which can affect kittens. Many of these diseases tend to be less serious when they strike in older cats, but can oftentimes be fatal or very severe when they affect kittens. Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and feline leukemia are two of the most serious and common diseases that kittens face. Fortunately, both of these diseases can be prevented through either vaccines or certain health practices. A veterinarian can help you to determine the best way to protect your cat from these diseases.
Worms and other Internal Parasites in Kittens
Worms are a serious concern for many kittens. In older cats, a case of intestinal worms may prove to be a more mild health problem, but in kittens, these worms can prevent necessary development and growth from occurring. It's therefore essential that you prevent worms from leeching off the nutrients that your kitten ingests in the food that he eats. Talk to your vet about certain medicines which can prevent worms from being able to latch onto your pet's intestinal lining, and if your pet does develop this condition, act quickly to rid him of the worms in his system.
Fleas and Other External Parasites
Fleas are another potentially common problem for kittens, particularly if you have a mother cat and her entire litter. Keeping a clean environment is a key to protecting your pet's from fleas. Additionally, there are certain medicines and treatments which can be used to help eliminate flea infestations. Be careful that any of these options that you pursue can be safely used for your pet at his age, as some flea treatments are designed particularly for older animals instead.
Malnutrition from lack of Proper Nutrients
The first months and years of a cat's life are among the very most important for his long term health and growth. If a kitten doesn't receive proper nutrition while his various bodily parts and systems are forming, he can run into severe health concerns later on in his life. Your veterinarian can provide you with a good idea of the best types of food to give to your cat.
With a proper run of vaccinations, careful prevention of diseases, and the support of a knowledgeable veterinarian, you can ensure that your pet receives all of the proper care that he needs to grow up in a healthy fashion.