Bringing home a newborn kitten is a joyful experience, but it also comes with a great deal of responsibility. Like human babies, newborn cats require regular medical check-ups to ensure they grow up healthy, strong, and free from preventable illnesses. Knowing how often to take your kitten to the vet can make all the difference in giving them the best start in life.
Here are five key points to help you understand your newborn cat’s veterinary needs during their first year.
First Vet Visit: Within the First Week
You should take your newborn kitten to the vet within the first week of bringing them home, especially if they haven’t been seen by a veterinarian before.
This early visit sets the foundation for a proper care routine and gives you the opportunity to ask questions about feeding, hygiene, and general kitten care. If your kitten was adopted from a shelter or breeder, they may already have some documentation to guide your vet’s assessment.
Follow-Up Visits Every 3–4 Weeks Until 16 Weeks of Age
From two weeks old until about four months, kittens grow rapidly and are especially vulnerable to illness. During this period, regular vet visits—typically every 3 to 4 weeks—are crucial.
These follow-ups allow the vet to monitor weight gain, assess developmental milestones, and detect early signs of health issues. They also provide a schedule for deworming and flea treatments, both of which are essential in the early stages of life.
Stay on Schedule with Pet Vaccinations
One of the most important reasons for regular vet visits in the first few months are the pet vaccinations. Kittens typically receive their first vaccinations at six to eight weeks of age, followed by a series of booster shots every three to four weeks until they are around 16 weeks old.
Staying on schedule with these vaccinations is essential to protect your kitten from life-threatening diseases and ensure they are safe around other pets.
Spaying or Neutering Around 4–6 Months
Once your kitten reaches four to six months of age, it’s time to discuss spaying or neutering with your vet. This procedure not only prevents unwanted litters but also reduces the risk of certain cancers and behavioural issues later in life.
Your vet will determine the best time for the surgery based on your kitten’s health, breed, and size. A pre-surgical check-up is usually required to ensure your cat is ready for anaesthesia and recovery.
Annual Check-Ups After the First Year
These annual check-ups help catch potential issues early and ensure your cat remains healthy well into adulthood.
By following a consistent vet visit schedule, you’ll help your newborn cat grow into a happy, healthy companion.