Our Montecito Veterinary Center vets in Santa Rosa can provide advice, guidance, and high-quality veterinary care during your puppy's or kitten's critical first year of life.
Care for Puppies & Kittens
When your new puppy or kitten enters your life - and your home - for the first time, it's an exciting day! Your cute and snuggly new friend probably brings a smile to anyone who interacts with them.
That said, there's also some serious health business during your new pet's first year that needs to be taken care of. Together, we can ensure this year puts them on the path to great long-term health.
Your vet can develop a custom care plan designed to look after your pet's unique needs during their first year, and offer plenty of support and guidance along the way!
Your Pet’s First Appointment
Puppies should visit their vet for the first time when they are about 6 weeks old, with kittens having their first visit around 8 weeks.
During this first visit, the vet will perform a complete physical examination to take inventory of your pet's overall health, look for any signs of congenital defects, and check for external parasites.
You will be asked to bring a stool sample for a fecal exam. Your pet will also receive their first round of vaccinations from the veterinarian, along with deworming medications if necessary.
Finally, for kittens, we will conduct a blood test to check for feline immunodeficiency virus and feline leukemia.
Followup Appointments
Between the ages of 6 and 16 weeks, kittens and puppies should come in for 3 to 4 veterinary appointments. These visits give our vets the opportunity to assess your pet's overall health and to administer vaccines on schedule.
More About Physical Exams
More About Vaccines & Prevention
Our vets look forward to addressing any questions or concerns you may have, and putting any concerns to rest. We want to ensure that you and your puppy or kitten have everything you need to begin a wonderful life together!