At Derry Animal Hospital, we recommend an initial series of
THREE EXAMS
several weeks apart for new puppies and kittens. Puppy and kitten care is important because we need to make sure your new pet is healthy, protected from infection, and getting the best start in life. Your vet will monitor your pet’s growth at each visit, provide the necessary treatment for parasites and other issues, and help build up your pet’s immunity with a series of vaccinations.
PUPPY CARE TIPS
KITTEN CARE TIPS
What to Expect at Your Puppy or Kitten’s Initial Exams
Your new pet’s first year of care is one of their most important, because it sets the stage for their health and treatment going forward. Your veterinarian will sit down with you to create a tailored wellness plan for your puppy or kitten to make sure they get the care they need and benefit as fully as possible from it.
During your pet’s first year of exams, they’ll receive:
Physical Exams
The first comprehensive examination is also the first step towards a healthy, happy life for your puppy or kitten. Derry Animal Hospital recommends 3-4 exams for your pet, from 8 weeks of age up to around 16 weeks of age. During these exams, we’ll check your pet’s weight, temperature, heart, and lungs, and do a careful physical assessment to check for abnormal things like lumps, bumps, lesions, swelling, hair loss, etc.
Vaccinations
Puppies and kittens are still developing their immune systems, and to fortify their immune systems, they should be vaccinated. Puppy and kitten shots are given in a series to help their bodies adjust, and with several weeks in between boosters. We vaccinate puppies and kittens based on their essential needs, with consideration for their unique breed, size, and lifestyle.
Diagnostic Testing
Puppies need to undergo heartworm testing, as heartworms can be fatal if left untreated. For kittens, we recommend feline leukemia and feline AIDS testing.
Other Recommendations
In addition to the vital services above, your vet can also talk to you about nutrition, training, and spaying and neutering, which are important surgeries for pets to undergo before reaching full maturity, and microchipping. Puppy and kitten visits often run longer because we want to answer all your questions and cover as many topics as possible to help you get started.
Spay/Neuter for Puppies & Kittens
If your puppy or kitten is still quite young and has not been fixed, we will talk to you about the different aspects of the spay/neuter procedure, why it’s beneficial, and when it will be best to do the surgery. There are many factors to consider, including your pet’s age, breed, size, and health history.
How do I potty train my puppy?
HOW DO I SET A POTTY TRAINING SCHEDULE?
- First thing in the morning
- Last thing at night
- After spending time in a crate
- Upon waking up from a nap
- After eating or drinking
- Time between potty breaks
should be no more than 2-4 hours
HOW DO I CRATE TRAIN MY PUPPY?
- Dogs like clean “home” areas and are less likely to have accidents
- Place crate near exterior door for quick relief
- The crate should be big enough for your puppy to stand up, turn around, and lay down
WHEN SHOULD I REINFORCE GOOD BEHAVIOR?
- Don’t scold your puppy for having an accident
- Praise them for doing the right thing
- Reward them with treats, pats, and attention
How do I get my puppy to stop bad behavior?
WHAT CAN MY PUPPY CHEW ON?
- Chewing is a calming mechanism for puppies
- Keep chewing toys around the house; when they start to chew on toys instead of household objects, give them praise
HOW DO I STOP MY PUPPY FROM BARKING?
- Scolding your puppy when they bark can make it worse; instead, ignore barking and praise quiet
- Training your dog to sit helps them fight impulsive barking when they want something
HOW DO I STOP MY PUPPY FROM BEGGING AT THE TABLE?
- Feed them first before you eat
- Create a cozy “go-to” spot near the table where they can be comfortable
- Praise them with treats when they don’t beg
How do I feed my puppy?
HOW OFTEN DO I FEED MY PUPPY?
- 6-12 weeks: 4x a day
- 3-6 months: 3x a day
- 6-12 months: 2x a day
- After a year: 2 half portions a day
- Watch your puppy to gauge if they are eating healthy
WHAT FOOD SHOULD I FEED MY PUPPY?
- Look for AAFCO guidelines
- Look for age and health specific formulas
- Ask your vet for tailored recommendations
WHAT ARE HARMFUL FOODS FOR PUPPIES?
Dairy, chocolate, grapes, and sugary foods, snacks, or desserts
What do I need to do to prepare for a kitten?
WHAT THINGS SHOULD I BUY FOR A KITTEN?
- Scratch posts (helps preserve furniture!)
- Litter boxes, cat carriers, and food and water bowls
- Stain and odor remover
WHAT SHOULD I MOVE OUT OF THE WAY?
- Toxic plants
- Cleaners and sprays
- Any dog food that might be in the house
HOW CAN MY CAT BE COMFORTABLE?
- Bed and blanket
- Small, cozy space
- Grooming supplies
- Pheromone products
How should I play with my kitten?
HOW DO I PLAY SAFELY WITH MY KITTEN?
- Use balls, jingles, anything on a string, and cotton chew toys
- Avoid “play” with your hands to avoid injury when full grown
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF PLAYING WITH YOUR KITTEN?
- Strengthens your bond with your kitten
- Allows them to release energy that could lead to damage
- Builds trust and comfort for them within a new home
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I PLAY WITH MY KITTEN?
- 20+ minutes of play per day
- Set aside at least two times a day preferably early in the morning and late at night
How do I feed a kitten?
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I FEED MY KITTEN?
- Dry food only: leave available at all times
- Wet food only: feed at least four times a day
- Combo: feed wet food twice a day and leave dry food available
WHAT SHOULD I FEED MY KITTEN?
- Look for AAFCO guidelines
- Look for age and health specific formulas
- Ask your vet for tailored recommendations
WHAT ARE HARMFUL FOODS FOR KITTENS?
- Raw meats, eggs, raw fish
- Grapes, chocolate, and dairy
