KITTEN VETERINARY CARE IN WEST LINN, OR
Congratulations on Your New Kitten!
Congratulations! All of us at Cascade Summit Animal Hospital in West Linn are eager to meet the newest member of your family. We love kittens. There’s nothing cuter than watching them explore, play, and grow. Seeing your kitten develop over their first year is a truly wonderful experience.
Having a kitten brings a lot of joy, but it also requires time, attention, and commitment to proper veterinary care. As a cat parent, it’s your responsibility to make sure your kitten’s basic needs are met, and we’re here to partner with you every step of the way.
Here is a Kitten/Cat Litter Box Article:
Your Kitten’s First Vet Visit
Please bring your kitten in for a check-up as soon as possible to establish care with an expert veterinarian in West Linn. A kitten exam helps ensure your new feline companion is healthy and developing properly.
Very young kittens are more vulnerable to illness because their immune systems are still developing, and those without prior medical care may have existing health concerns. A thorough exam helps identify and address any issues early so your kitten can grow up strong and healthy.
Please bring your kitten in a closed carrier, along with any medical records or paperwork related to prior care. Also, bring a fresh stool sample (ideally less than 12 hours old).
Your kitten’s first exam will include:
- A comprehensive physical exam
- Screening for Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV)
- Intestinal parasite screening and deworming if needed
- Development of an age-appropriate immunization schedule
- Heartworm prevention recommendations
- Flea and external parasite prevention guidance
- Behavior and housetraining advice
- Nutritional counseling
We are now offering kitten wellness plans for our patients; an exciting option for owners who prefer to pay for care on a monthly basis.
Kitten Wellness Plans
All wellness plans are tiered, with each level including everything in the plan below it, along with additional services and discounts. Please visit our Wellness Plans page for more information.
Our Vaccine Philosophy
Vaccines are essential for preventing serious diseases in dogs and cats, but no vaccine is 100% effective or completely risk-free. That’s why we create personalized vaccine protocols maximizing protection against diseases your kitten may be exposed to while minimizing unnecessary vaccinations.
Our recommendations are based on the latest research and local disease trends. During your kitten’s exam, we’ll discuss lifestyle factors to design a vaccination plan tailored to their needs, adjusting it as they grow and their routine changes.
Pre-Kitten Planning
Pre-kitten planning is important. Purchase essential supplies like food and water bowls, toys, a litter box, bedding, a collar, and an ID tag before bringing your kitten home. Early preparation allows you to shop stress-free and set up a safe environment in advance.
Kittens are naturally curious and can get into trouble easily. Be sure to kitten-proof your home by removing hazards such as electrical cords, blind strings, and toxic plants. Once you think you’ve secured the space, get down to floor level for a kitten’s-eye view to double-check.
When you bring your kitten home, ask what food they’ve been eating and maintain that diet and schedule until your first visit. We’ll discuss your kitten’s nutritional needs during the appointment. If you need help choosing food, just give us a call.
When to Seek Immediate Care
Be alert to the following symptoms—these may indicate your kitten needs immediate medical attention:
- Respiratory issues such as coughing or difficulty breathing
- Signs of pain: panting, lethargy, restlessness, or loss of appetite
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
- Open wounds, bleeding, or animal bites
- Allergic reactions (facial swelling or hives)
- Eye injuries, even minor ones
- Seizures, fainting, or collapse
- Exposure to extreme temperatures
- Any trauma (such as falling or being stepped on)
- Suspected poisoning (antifreeze, rodent bait, human medication, etc.)
The entire staff at Cascade Summit Animal Hospital is here to help you and your kitten through every life stage. Please contact us to schedule your kitten’s first wellness exam and to ask any questions about your kitten’s health care in West Linn.