There are a number of things to look out for which may indicate your cat has arthritis. While we may think some changes are just old age, they may actually indicate the presence of joint disease which may lead to discomfort and pain for your cat.
Don’t let your feline friend suffer in silence and read on to find out all about what arthritis is, how to tell if your cat may have it, and what to do about it?
Table of Contents
What is arthritis?
Arthritis or degenerative joint disease is a condition of joints that produces degenerative, progressive and irreversible changes. The changes include inflammation, loss of cartilage (which acts as the shock absorber in the joints), and the formation of osteophytes which are pieces of bone laid down in an effort to protect the joint surface. There can also be thickening and scarring of connective tissue around the joint.
Arthritis occurs in older cats as a result of years of wear and tear on the joints. There are a number of risk factors which may increase the risk of arthritis in cats such as genetics, certain joint problems like hip dysplasia or patella luxation (kneecap instability), injury and trauma and finally obesity!
Signs of arthritis in cats
Cats are masters of hiding discomfort and pain so often do not demonstrate obvious signs that you may expect. They may even restrict their activity to minimise the use of sore joints, in particular they uncommonly show obvious signs of limping which is usually seen with dogs who suffer from arthritis.
Common signs of arthritis in cats:
Altered grooming (may see a scruffy and matted coat)
Reduced activity (increase time sleeping and resting, reduced interaction)
Reluctance to climb or jump onto furniture
Change in toileting (not using the litter tray as can’t get into or out of it)
Temperament changes (more irritable or grumpy, avoiding interaction)
It is worthwhile to note that cats can spend up to 90% of their day sleeping so any signs of arthritis that they may show will only occur in a short window of time for the owners to detect. Furthermore cats will very rarely vocalise when in pain, so it is important to know the signs to look out for. Even if you are not sure if your cat has arthritis, it is worthwhile taking them to the vet for a check up for a clinical assessment and further work up, if required.
How is arthritis diagnosed in cats?
Arthritis is more common in older cats, so it should be looked for in any cat from 7 years of age or older. A diagnosis is based on signs and changes you notice in your cat’s behaviour, along with an examination by the vet and any further tests like x- rays.
The vet may be able to detect pain, discomfort or any swelling in the joints by examining your cat, as well as look for signs of muscle wasting and stiffness. Imaging, like x-rays are not always required and usually a trial treatment with medications may be used.
Further tests like blood and urine tests may also be performed especially before starting on some medications.
Treatment and management of arthritis in cats
The treatment and management options for arthritis are what we call multimodal where we combine medication and supplements with environmental and behaviour changes. This seems to be the most effective way we can manage arthritis and it is important to note that there will be large individual variation.
As described above we focus on management of the disease as it is not possible to cure arthritis. The goals are to make your cat more comfortable and to minimise further changes to the joints if possible.
Medications
Your vet will determine if medication is required and in many cases this can be the best treatment option for your cat.
The most common medication for arthritis is non-steroidal anti- inflammatories such as meloxicam. This medication does not come without risks and often blood tests will be required to especially monitor your cat’s kidney function.
There are also the options of injections for your cat but again this will depend on individual cases. A newer injection which your vet may prescribe is called Solensia. It is made from an antibody (a cat specific protein) which is designed to recognise and attach to a protein called nerve growth factor (NGF) which is involved in the regulation of pain. It then is able to neutralise NGF, blocking it almost completely and thereby alleviating pain.
Another injection (pentosan polysulphate) used off label in cats has been shown to preserve joint health and provide pain relief.
Other options include opioids (temgesic or tramadol) especially for those who either can’t tolerate the other medications or who need a higher level of pain relief, and gabapentin which is beneficial for nerve pain and has some sedative effects in cats.
Supplements and food
There are several dietary supplements and diets available for cats with arthritis. They usually contain a combination of essential fatty acids that help to reduce inflammation as well as glycosaminoglycans (glucosamine and chondroitin) which help to repair and build cartilage. The benefits of these supplements will be variable and are more effective if combined with other management tools.
Weight control is a very important strategy in the management of arthritis in cats as being overweight can exacerbate arthritis so should be avoided. There are a number of diets that can assist with this including lower calorie options, prescription weight-loss diets and even diets containing joint care ingredients.
Environmental and enrichment strategies
Modifying the environment can help improve your cat’s quality of life when they are dealing with arthritis. Some ideas include
The use of a soft and comfortable bed, placed in an easily accessible location
The use of steps or ramps to provide access to higher places that they may like to seek
Low rimmed litter trays and enough of them placed in easily accessible places
Still encourage gentle exercise by playing with them and can use interactive toys to help and stimulate their interest
Groom them regularly as they may have difficulty grooming themselves if their joints are stiff
Wrap up
The most important take home message for this blog would be that cats don’t display what one might think are obvious signs of arthritis. It is important to look out for the subtle changes they may indicate joint disease and have these confirmed with your vet. An arthritic cat is not just an old cat but there are plenty of management tools we can use to make them more comfortable and thrive in their senior years.
We all want the best for our furry friends, and sometimes that means dealing with unexpected health issues like skin conditions. These problems can lead to multiple vet visits, tests, and treatments, which can quickly add up.
That’s where pet insurance comes in. If you’re wondering, “Does pet insurance cover skin conditions in dogs?” – we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into how pet insurance can help you manage your dog’s skin concerns and what you need to know about coverage.
How Pet Insurance Steps In
Pet insurance is like a safety net for your beloved pet’s health. It’s there to help ease the financial strain when your dog needs medical attention due to illness or injury. Skin conditions are common, and they often require ongoing care.
From blood tests to X-rays and trying different medications, treating these issues can get pricey. In some cases, your vet might recommend a visit to a specialized dermatologist, adding another layer of cost.
Getting Ahead of Pre-existing Conditions
Getting pet insurance early in your dog’s life can be a game-changer. It can help you avoid the headache of dealing with pre-existing conditions. These are health problems that existed before you got insurance or within a certain waiting period.
Insurance typically doesn’t cover pre-existing conditions, which is why starting coverage while your pup is young is a smart move. It’s like giving them a head start in staying healthy.
Are Skin Conditions Covered With Pet Insurance?
Great news – if a skin condition isn’t considered pre-existing, most pet insurance policies should cover it. However, there’s a catch: coverage can vary depending on the insurance company and the specific policy you choose. The key is to read the fine print and understand the terms and conditions. Some policies might have limits on certain treatments or conditions, affecting how much you can get reimbursed.
Things to Keep in Mind
When it comes to pet insurance, there are a few things you should know. While it generally covers diagnosing, treating, and managing skin conditions, there might be some exclusions. For instance, prescription food, supplements, and grooming supplies might not be covered. Even certain specialised shampoos and conditioners could fall under these exclusions.
Choosing the Right Policy
Comparing different pet insurance providers is essential to finding the best fit for your dog’s needs. Some insurers might limit coverage for specific treatments or conditions. Others, like Pet Circle Insurance, offer more comprehensive coverage without sub-limits. This means you can claim vet costs and treatments up to your annual limit, giving you more flexibility and peace of mind.
Pet insurance isn’t just a financial safety net – it’s your peace of mind. It’s there to help you navigate the twists and turns of your dog’s health journey, especially when it comes to skin conditions.
By understanding what pet insurance covers, being aware of possible exclusions, and comparing different providers, you can ensure that your furry friend receives the best care possible without the worry of unexpected expenses. After all, a healthy pet is a happy pet, and that’s what it’s all about.
Did you know that Australians spend a staggering $3,200 per year on their furry best friend? That’s more than some people spend on vacations or even their wardrobe! While a dog’s wagging tail and loyal companionship may be priceless, the cost of keeping them happy and healthy certainly isn’t.
Welcome to your go-to guide on the true cost of owning a dog—a comprehensive breakdown that goes beyond the bag of kibble and a squeaky toy.
Choosing to bring a dog into your life is a long-term commitment that stretches far beyond the emotional and time investment; it’s a financial commitment too. Unfortunately, many new pet owners find themselves blindsided by unexpected costs, from emergency vet visits to the ongoing expense of quality food and care.
Understanding the full financial landscape of dog ownership can help you prepare adequately, making sure you can provide a stable, loving home for your new family member.
Whether you’re in the ‘just thinking about it’ stage or you’ve already been swept off your feet by a set of puppy dog eyes, this article will unravel the obvious and hidden expenses tied to dog ownership. From upfront costs like adoption fees to recurring expenses and even those unforeseen veterinary emergencies, we’ve got it all covered.
Upfront Costs Of Getting A Dog
Purchase or Adoption Fees
When it comes to bringing a dog into your life, the first question you often face is whether to adopt from a shelter or buy from a breeder.
Prices can vary drastically between the two options. For example, adopting a dog from a shelter might cost you between $50 to $300, depending on the organization and the services included.
On the flip side, purchasing from a breeder can set you back anywhere from $500 to a whopping $10,000 or more, particularly for purebred or “designer” dogs.
Its a good idea to check out potential breeders on national databases to check they are registered, as well as running through a checklist of what to look for when buying a puppy.
Additional Services
It’s crucial to understand what is included in these initial fees. Many shelters offer packages that include initial vaccinations, microchipping, and desexing. Breeders may offer similar packages but be sure to confirm so you’re not hit with unexpected veterinary bills later on. It’s about more than just the sticker price; it’s about the value you’re getting for that price.
One-Off Initial Dog Costs
Initial Veterinary Expenses
Vaccinations
Your new pet will need a series of vaccinations to protect against various diseases, costing around $170-$250 depending on the area and the vet clinic. Some shelters include the first set of vaccinations in the adoption fee, but future boosters will be your responsibility.
This tiny chip helps identify your dog if they ever get lost, costing between $60 and $80. While some adoption fees include the cost of microchipping, buying from a breeder often means you’ll have to cover this expense separately.
TIP: make sure you register your microchip, companies like the central animal registery can help get lost pets back if they are registered with them! They often have a small fee for premium services.
Desexing
Spaying or neutering your pet is another essential initial cost, often ranging from a few hundred dollars upwards. Some shelters include this in their adoption fee, but if not, or if you’re buying from a breeder, expect to shell out additional money for this procedure.
The cost of desexing can vary depending on the size of your dog, but in NSW it ranges from $200-$500 with a giant dog being $600.
Initial Check-up
Regardless of where you get your dog, a first vet visit is crucial to assess general health and discuss a future care plan. Costs for an initial check-up can vary but expect to pay around $50 to $100.
Some vets often do free puppy/kitten check ups, if your on a budget it can help to shop around.
Dog Supplies & Gear
Beds
Comfort is key for your new companion. A quality dog bed can cost anywhere from $30 to $150, depending on the size and material.
Crates
If you’re planning on crate training your dog, prepare to spend between $25 and $150 for a crate, depending on size and quality. Crate mats or pads for added comfort will be an additional cost.
Toys
Engaging your pup’s mind is vital for their well-being. Toys can cost between $1 and $25 each, and trust us, you’ll want a variety of them to keep your dog entertained.
Collars, Harnesses, and Leashes
These are not just accessories but essentials for walking and training your dog. Depending on what you’re looking for in terms of material and durability, you could spend anywhere from $10 to $100 on these items.
Initial Costs Of Getting A Dog
Factor
Cost Range
Adoption
$500 – 10,000
Vaccinations
$170 – $250
Microchipping
$60 – $80
Desexing
$200 – $500
Initial Vet Visit
$50 – $100
Dog Bed
$30 – $150
Dog Crate
$25 – $150
Dog Toys
$1 – $25
Collars and Leads
$10 – $100
In summary, while the upfront costs may seem steep, they are an essential investment in your pet’s long-term health and happiness. Keep in mind that many of these costs are one-time or infrequent expenses, but they are crucial for giving your new pet a good start in their new forever home.
Recurring Expenses Of Owning A Dog
Owning a dog doesn’t just entail a one-time payment; it’s a long-term commitment that has ongoing costs. These can add up over time and vary depending on the breed, age, and health of your dog. Here’s what to expect:
Food and Treats
When it comes to feeding your furry friend, options abound from budget kibble to gourmet meals. Costs can range from $20 to $100 per month based on the quality of the food and the size of your dog. Remember that some breeds have special dietary needs that can add to the cost.
Treats aren’t just an indulgence; they’re often essential for training and oral health. Quality chews and treats can cost between $5 and $25 a pack. If you use them frequently for training or simply to spoil your dog, this can add another $10 to $50 to your monthly expenses.
Regular Veterinary Care
Annual Check-ups
Annual veterinary check-ups are crucial for monitoring your pet’s health and catching potential issues early. Depending on your location and the services rendered, these can cost between $50 and $200 per visit.
Ongoing Vaccinations
After the initial series of vaccinations, your dog will require periodic boosters, costing approximately $50 to $100 annually, depending on the vaccines.
Flea and Worm Treatments
Preventing fleas and worms is a lot easier (and less icky) than treating an infestation. Preventative treatments can range from $120 to $300 per year, varying with the size and specific needs of your dog.
Grooming and Hygiene
Professional Grooming Sessions (if applicable)
Depending on the breed and coat type, some dogs require regular grooming sessions, which can range from $30 to $100 per session. Breeds with more complicated grooming needs can cost even more.
Even if you opt for DIY grooming, you’ll need some basic supplies like shampoos, brushes, and nail clippers. These can cost anywhere from $20 to $100 initially, with periodic replacements and refills adding to the expense.
Miscellaneous
Dog Walker, If Needed
If you’re not home often or can’t take your dog for regular walks, a dog walker can be a godsend. Prices vary greatly depending on your location but generally range from $15 to $30 per walk.
Training Classes
Basic obedience classes are often recommended for new dogs and puppies. These can cost between $50 and $200 for a series of lessons.
Licensing or Council Fees
Most local governments require dogs to be registered, which comes with an annual fee ranging from $10 to $75, depending on your location and the dog’s age and sex.
In summary, while upfront costs may seem like the brunt of pet ownership expenses, don’t underestimate the recurring costs that come with providing the best care for your dog. Budgeting for these will help ensure that you and your furry friend can focus on a lifetime of happy moments, rather than unexpected bills.
Unexpected Costs
So, you’ve planned for the upfront and recurring expenses—great! But what about the financial surprises that can catch any pet owner off guard? Here are some common unexpected costs you should be aware of:
Emergency Veterinary Visits
Dogs are curious creatures and sometimes that curiosity can lead them into trouble, like ingesting foreign objects or suffering from sudden allergies. Emergency vet visits can range from $100 for minor issues to upwards of $1,000 for more severe problems requiring overnight stays or specialized treatment.
Potential Breed-Specific Health Problems
Certain breeds are prone to specific health issues—like hip dysplasia in large breeds or breathing problems in brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds. The cost of treating these conditions can be substantial. For instance, surgery for hip dysplasia can cost between $1,500 and $3,000 per hip.
Brachycephalic, or ‘Bracky Dogs’ for short, are becoming more and more common. When you first get one of these dogs, its a really good idea to take them to a vet and get a full assessment of their breathing – vets can often tell if they will need surgery very early one. Brachycephalic surgery is often done in the first year of a dogs life and can often not be covered by insurance if it is pre-existing.
Tip: Having information related to your dogs specific risk facts can be super helpful in asking your insurance provider for specific advise. No one wants to pay for something for 2 years only to realise its not covered, so ask your vet early if they are susceptible to later issues.
Cost of Surgeries or Other Treatments
Apart from breed-specific issues, dogs can suffer from various illnesses that require surgery or specialized treatments. The cost can vary widely based on the severity of the condition and the required treatment but expect to pay anywhere from $500 to several thousand dollars. For example, cancer treatments can go well beyond $5,000, depending on the type and stage.
Value of Pet Insurance
Owning a pet comes with joys and responsibilities, including financial ones that can be unpredictable. This is where pet insurance comes into play. But what does pet insurance cover, and is it worth the cost? Let’s dig in.
Types of Pet Insurance
Basic vs. Comprehensive
Pet insurance can vary greatly in what they cover, and consequently, in cost. Basic plans might only cover accidents like a broken bone or ingestion of a foreign object, typically not including preventive care or hereditary conditions. These basic plans can be budget-friendly but might leave you with significant out-of-pocket costs for other types of vet visits.
Comprehensive plans, on the other hand, cover a much broader range of healthcare needs, including preventive care, vaccinations, and even chronic illnesses and hereditary conditions. These plans are more expensive but offer more extensive coverage.
Cost of Premiums
The cost of pet insurance premiums can vary widely, often ranging from around $200 to $4,000 a year. Several factors contribute to this variation:
The breed of your dog (some breeds are more susceptible to certain illnesses)
Your dog’s age (older dogs are more likely to have health issues)
Geographical location (vet care is more expensive in some areas)
The type of coverage you choose (basic vs. comprehensive)
Peace of Mind vs. Financial Commitment
Pros:
Financial Security: An unexpected health issue can be financially crippling. Pet insurance can offer a safety net.
Better Care: With insurance, you might be more likely to seek medical help as soon as an issue arises, ensuring better health outcomes for your pet.
Customization: Many plans allow you to customize your coverage and deductibles to meet your financial situation and healthcare needs of your pet.
Cons:
Cost: Premiums add another expense to your budget and over time can add up, especially if you rarely use the insurance.
Not All-Inclusive: Even comprehensive plans have exclusions and limitations, meaning you’ll still have some out-of-pocket costs.
Complexity: Understanding what is and isn’t covered can be complicated, requiring a fair amount of research and potentially leading to unexpected costs.
Choosing to invest in pet insurance is a decision that should be weighed carefully, considering both your financial situation and the likely healthcare needs of your pet. The peace of mind knowing that you have a financial cushion can be invaluable, but it comes at a price that isn’t insignificant. Make sure to do your due diligence and choose the plan that best fits your needs and those of your furry friend.
Dr Angie with Axel
Written by Dr. Angie, the brilliant veterinary mind behind Pet Circle Insurance. With over 15 years of experience in the veterinary field and hands-on experience in handling insurance claims, Angie is a trusted and reliable source of truth when it comes to all things pet-related. Her passion for small animal medicine, nutrition, and the human-animal bond shines through in her work with the Pet Circle Veterinary Squad, where she provides top-notch advice and support to pet owners.
Whether you are exploring the options of adding a furry companion to your family, or have recently purchased a new puppy, this guide will help you with some health and behaviour tips for all this puppy care! There is nothing better than bringing your new bundle of fluff home and witnessing all those crazy puppy antics. It is exciting shopping for bowls and bed and collars and toy, but what else may your pup need? Fear not, we will help with advice about health care and parasite preventatives, pet insurance and how to avoid separation anxiety.
Table of Contents
Bringing them home
Firstly, you want to set up a living space where you puppy can safely stay and settle into their new environment. This may be a puppy pen or small room with anything dangerous that they may like to try and chew removed from sight. Puppies are curious creatures and like to explore and discover the world with multiple senses including smell and taste and therefore they do enjoy putting things in their mouths!
They should have a cosy sleeping area where they can sleep and rest with some safe puppy toys to entertain and comfort them. You may want to consider crate training your new pup as this can have many advantages! Crate training can assist with toilet training, help them settle in and feel secure in their new home. It can prevent some unwanted behaviour problems such as separation anxiety and it allows a safe place for them to stay when they are unsupervised. It can contain their bed and allow them space to move around but not be too large that they use it as their toilet!
Pet Insurance
This is an ideal time to consider the need for pet insurance. There are a few reasons that puppyhood is a great time to take out a pet insurance policy which you can tailor to your needs.
Pet insurance will exclude any pre-existing conditions. For example, if your pet has been diagnosed with a problem before taking out pet insurance such as hip dysplasia, then you will not be able to claim for this when you purchase a policy. Therefore, taking out pet insurance when your pet is a young puppy before any accident or illness has occurred is likely to be most financially beneficial. Pre-existing condition can also be an illness that has not yet been diagnosed, so please see the PDS for more details about pre-existing conditions.
Puppies can be accident and illness prone such as eating things they shouldn’t which may get stuck in their gut and requiring surgery which may cost thousands of dollars. They can also get injured due to their naivety; getting hit by cars or bitten by other dogs, bitten by snakes, and stung by bees, just to name a few! This again can prove costly especially if not budgeted for, so pet insurance will give you peace of mind that your pup can have the lifesaving treatment they require.
Some dogs are going to acquire costly medical conditions that are not preventable, such as allergic skin disease or diabetes, both of which can involve multiple ongoing medications and treatments, and again having pet insurance before this occurs is likely to be highly financially valuable.
Nutrition – What should I feed my pup?
There are so many great options out there that it can be very overwhelming on what to choose to feed your puppy.
You need to feed something formulated for growth (a puppy food) and one that is complete and balanced. I like to recommend premium diets as they are designed to be nutrient-dense, highly digestible and also contain antioxidants which help to strengthen your pup’s immunity.
Higher-end premium pet food brands conduct laboratory analyses and feeding studies to determine the optimum levels of nutrients in their food, as well as regular batch testing to ensure consistency. My favourite recommendations are Royal Canin, Hills and Advance.
Natural diets are great because they often focus on diets free of artificial colours, flavours and preservatives. Some provide options for quality limited ingredients, single/novel proteins and grain free. Premium natural dog food brands are complete and balanced as they still utilise the scientific knowledge gathered about pet nutrition to manufacture their diet.
For a home-made diet, it is recommended that a veterinary nutritionist is consulted. Many popular home-made diet recipes have been shown to be imbalanced. Commercially available diets are not perfect, however it is often the best and most practical option we have at the moment.
You can also discuss this with your vet when you take your pup for their vaccination if you are unsure or overwhelmed by all the wonderful options available!
Toilet Training
Toilet training can be quite a daunting and frustrating time for new puppy owners but having some plans in place can make for a more successful time.
I would recommend considering crate training your puppy, like I mentioned above, as this will provide a safe haven for them and prevents accidents when you are unable to supervise them.
Dogs prefer not to toilet near where they sleep and so they will likely not toilet in their crate if it is the correct size for their breed. They need enough space to be able to be able to stand up and turn around in but not too large that they can toilet in it! First thing in the morning you should take your puppy out and place them where you want them to toilet and you can give them a command such as the word “toilet” and them praise them with pats, lots of positive talk and even treats when they go in the correct place. Positive reinforcement, repetition and time is the key!
Tip: Take your puppy out to toilet every few hours and especially once they have woken up, recently eaten or drank some water.
Don’t scold or tell off your puppy if they go to the toilet in the wrong place as this can cause fear and anxiety for them. Ideally clean it up as quickly as possible and use an enzymatic cleaner to avoid the urine or faeces scent from attracting your puppy back to that spot next time they need to go.
Parasite Preventatives – all things worms, fleas and ticks
Intestinal worms
Due to their smaller size and immature immune system, puppies are particularly sensitive to parasite infestations. It is therefore recommended to worm your puppy every 2 weeks until 12 weeks of age and then monthly for life. Monthly deworming is for roundworm, hookworm and whipworm. Deworming your puppy is imperative as heavy worm burdens can be life threatening and some intestinal worms are zoonotic meaning your pup can spread the parasite to you! For adult dogs we recommend 3 monthly tapeworm protection unless dogs are exposed to offal, raw meat, carcasses and hunting and if this is the case, they should then have a tapewormer every 6 weeks.
Heartworm
Heartworm is a parasite that is spread by infected mosquitos and prevention of this parasite is much less risky than treatment which can be costly and even deadly. It is more prevalent in the tropical and warmer climates and even indoor pets can be affected due to mosquitos finding their way inside. Prevention is in the form of an annual heartworm injection by your vet or a monthly spot on or tablet.
Fleas
This dreaded parasite can cause a lot of problems for your puppy and again prevention is easier and more efficient than trying to treat and control a flea burden in your house! Fleas suck blood and in puppies who have a heavy flea burden this blood loss can even lead to anaemia. It can also be challenging to control fleas when they are in your environment as a female flea lays up to 50 eggs a day meaning that 1 flea can become one million fleas in as little as 6 weeks! We therefore recommend flea prevention is used year-round and can be combined with tick prevention and worming or separate products. It is available in tablet form or a spot on preparation.
Ticks
There are 3 main tick species that can affect puppies in Australia, namely the brown dog tick (which can transmit the tick-borne disease Ehrlichiosis), the bush tick and deadly paralysis tick. Paralysis ticks are mainly found along the East Coast of Australia, from North Queensland to East Victoria. Again prevention is better than the cure and there are many products available that can kill or repel ticks and some are safe to use on puppies from 8 weeks of age.
Dental Health
Now is a great time to introduce a dental care plan for your puppy!
If you can get your pup used to assessing and touching their mouth at this early stage, this will help with them accepting toothbrushing and enjoying the time with you!
I recommend to start off with having them lick some flavoured toothpaste off your finger and once they are comfortable with this you can get them to lick some off a fingerbrush. After a week of doing this touch the fingerbrush to their top front teeth for them to lick off and slowly start brushing their teeth. Take things very slow and do be aware that their gums can be sensitive during teething (which happens in puppies from about 4-6 months of age). Chewing on safe puppy dental toys and chews is also useful.
Dental disease is one of the most common health issue I see in clinical practice, formulating a plan of how to best prevent and treat this is both beneficial for any future pain and discomfort for your pup and has financial benefits for you in the longer-term!
Socialisation
This is SUPER important for puppies especially in the first few weeks of owning them.
Puppies need vaccinations starting at 6-8 weeks so socialisation may need to happen at puppy classes. Puppy pre-school offers a safe and supervised environment where your puppy can meet different breeds of puppies, other people and learn some basic obedience too! Puppies have a “critical socialisation period” at about 3-17 weeks of age and experiences during this time can help to shape and influence their behaviour into adulthood. It is also important to expose them to different people as well as sounds and noises in a safe and calm environment and provide plenty of positivity and praise.
We recommend training using positive reinforcement and reward-based training as this helps set your puppy up to succeed, it is enjoyable for them (what puppy doesn’t enjoy a tasty liver treat?) and enhances the bond between yourself and your puppy.
Leaving your puppy alone and preventing separation anxiety
There will be times when you need to leave your puppy alone – this is perfectly okay and good for them.
Initially you should start with short periods of time, gradually increasing over time. You can leave your pup with some puppy safe toys that they can play with, ideally have a play with some exercise before you leave so they are worn out and want to rest while you are away.
This system of slowly increasing time alone will set them up to realise that time away from you is okay, and that you will return, and it can help prevent separation anxiety later in life.
Vaccination and Microchipping
Puppies are prone to several infectious diseases, so vaccinations are imperative to keep them safe. Speak to your vet about your puppy’s vaccination schedule but usually puppies require a course of 3 vaccinations, a month apart starting at 6-8 weeks of age. In Australia puppies are usually vaccinated against Parvovirus, Distemper, Hepatitis and Canine Cough.
Your puppy will likely already have a microchip when you bring them home, but do check that this is the case. You also need to have the microchip registered on the relevant microchip register. Don’t forget to update your contact details if you move! This will ensure if they get accidentally lost that they are identifiable and you will be contacted.
Summary
Enjoy this time of them being a puppy as they grow up and change so quickly!
Document it with lots of photos to look back on to remember all of the memories of them being so small.
My top advice would be to ensure you adequately socialise them with other people and dogs when they are young, teach them basic obedience, how to walk well on a lead and consider taking out pet insurance for peace of mind 🙂
Dr Angie with Axel
Written by Dr. Angie, the brilliant veterinary mind behind Pet Circle Insurance. With over 15 years of experience in the veterinary field and hands-on experience in handling insurance claims, Angie is a trusted and reliable source of truth when it comes to all things pet-related. Her passion for small animal medicine, nutrition, and the human-animal bond shines through in her work with the Pet Circle Veterinary Squad, where she provides top-notch advice and support to pet owners.
According to recent surveys carried out by Animal Medicines Australia, nearly 70% of all Australian households own a pet! We have one of the highest pet ownership rates in the world and pets have become a part of our families. But it comes with no surprise that as much as they enrich our lives, they come with both big personal and financial commitments. Many pet parents don’t realise the high cost of unexpected veterinary bills and this can be assisted with pet insurance.
Pet insurance helps cover the costs of unexpected veterinary expenses, should your pet require them in instances of unexpected illness or injury. Pet insurance is designed for those unexpected events that are challenging to budget for. It can be useful to ask yourself the question “Would you be able to afford unplanned large veterinary expenses if your beloved pet becomes sick or injured?”. Pet insurance helps to give you the ability to consider all treatment options without being overwhelmed by the cost.
It’s like Car Insurance …
Another way to think about pet insurance is that it resembles car insurance in that the premium you pay correlates to your pet’s risk of incurring expenses such as age and breed of your dog. Another similarity is that pet insurance covers for unexpected veterinary expenses (like a car crash for car insurance) rather than routine, expected health maintenance such as vaccinations, health checks and parasite preventatives (just like routine servicing of your car which is not covered by car insurance).
Pre-existing conditions?
An important note is that pet insurance does not cover pre-existing conditions. Subsequently any illness, injury or condition that occurred prior to purchasing the insurance policy or within an applicable exclusion period will not be covered for. Therefore, it is often recommended to get pet insurance for puppies and kittens before they have had the chance to acquire any conditions. The younger the pet is when you get pet insurance, the better the chance that you pet will have fewer pre-existing conditions!
Both puppies and kittens can be curious, accident and illness prone by eating things they shouldn’t or getting into places they shouldn’t and having pet insurance gives you peace of mind that you can afford what could be life saving treatment they may require. This can be especially beneficial if your pet then requires specialist treatment or surgeries, that can be in the thousands of dollars. Keep in mind that pet insurance does not cover everything and there are some conditions and exclusions, but still it would be very reassuring knowing you have cover for the unexpected big bills.
Use our quote tool to see what your monthly premiums would be.
How does pet insurance work?
You start by personalising the level of cover you need for your pet!
Annual limit (maximum payout): $10K, $17.5k or $30k for dogs and $2.5K, $5K or $10K for cats. Benefit percentage: 70%, 80% or 90%; Annual excess $0, $75 or $150;
Pet Circle Insurance has no sneaky sub-limits.
What does ‘no sneaky sub-limits’ mean?
The annual limit is the amount of money you can claim back each year in total, with no sub-limits.
If you have an annual limit of $30k (subject to any chosen annual excess) you can claim vet costs and treatment up to that limit each year. Lots of other insurers place additional cap or limit (so called sub-limits) on the amount you can claim for certain conditions or treatments like tick paralysis or hip replacements – not us!
A benefit percentage means the portion of the claim you will receive back from a claim.
For example, if your pet’s treatment comes to the cost of $1,000, you would pay your vet directly and then make a claim with the insurer. Say your annual excess is $150 and your benefit percentage is 80%, then if your claim is approved, you will receive [$1,000-$150 (excess)= $850] x80% = $680 reimbursed to you.
The annual excess is the amount that you (the pet owner) pays towards a claim. Once you have paid your annual excess, then any future claims during the same period of insurance (ie 12 months period) will not have the annual excess deducted. Lots of insurers have an excess for each claim or condition, but ours is a single annual amount for all claims and conditions.
How does the claims process work?
After treatment, we need to review the receipt as well as any medical history from your veterinarian in order to process a claim. You will then get reimbursed into your bank account when the claim is accepted.
You just log into our handy-dandy customer portal, where you can upload everything. If we need more information, we will follow up with your vet for you.
Written by Dr. Angie, the brilliant veterinary mind behind Pet Circle Insurance. With over 15 years of experience in the veterinary field and hands-on experience in handling insurance claims, Angie is a trusted and reliable source of truth when it comes to all things pet-related. Her passion for small animal medicine, nutrition, and the human-animal bond shines through in her work with the Pet Circle Veterinary Squad, where she provides top-notch advice and support to pet owners.
Whether you are still researching getting a kitten or already have a recent addition to your household this kitten guide will give you some tips and advice to best advise how to look after your furry feline! This is such an exciting time and kittens provide endless laughs and joy watching all of their playful kitten antics.
This new and exciting little family member does come with responsibilities that all family members can help with. This is paramount to ensuring their health, well-being and happiness. It can be quite overwhelming but don’t despair as this post will help to explain what is required for your kitten, the health care you need to provide including parasite preventatives as well as grooming, dental care and whether it’s best to keep them indoors only!
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Set up (litter trays, scratching posts, all the kitten necessities!):
When you first bring your kitten home, it is recommended to confine them to a small area or room where they have their litter tray, bed, food and water to allow them to settle in. This can be a slightly daunting time for them so providing them with a stable and friendly environment can help them to settle in to their new family in no time. As their confidence grows you can allow them to explore other areas of the house just making sure it is a safe environment for them (taping up or putting away cords and picking up hair bands off the floor!). Using calming products such as feliway pheromone diffuser can help relax and adjust them to their new home environment.
It is ideal to place their litter tray in a private and safe area so ensure no toileting accidents (we all like a little privacy when going to the toilet!) and the general rule is one tray per cat plus one extra. Meaning if you have one cat, you should provide 2 trays, 3 cats 3 trays, etc. Try and provide the same litter tray and litter as the kitten was used to before you got them, as there are a big variety of different trays and litter types. Doing this will help prevent unwanted toileting incidents and make your kitten feel more familiar with the toileting process! It is beneficial to be aware that kittens are much more likely to use the litter tray if it is clean, and so keeping the tray clean and promptly removing the waste will encourage toileting in the correct place (and not on your bed, bathmat or basket of washing!).
Cats instinctively need to scratch to help keep their nails in good condition, and express their instinctive scratching behaviour. By providing scratching posts and encouraging usage of them (playing with your kitten on them, using treats and cat nip) this should also help save your furniture from getting scratched up! Cats also love heights so consider some cat furniture with multiple levels for them to explore their world from different heights. This will also provide your kitten with some mental stimulation which is good for their overall wellbeing and adds interest into their daily routine.
Playtime
Playtime is a great opportunity for bonding with your kitten! Kittens especially love chasing toys and their playful and curious nature will come out during play. I like to recommend rotating some toys to help keep them interested in them (this can help reduce boredom in playing with the smae toys all the time). Playtime is also an important form of exercise especially if they are going to be indoors only.
There are many different toys out their so try a variety to see what ones your kitten enjoys most. Some favourites are ones that include feathers, teaser toys, and balls of course! There are also interactive toys that move, laser toys that can really intrigue them as well as interactive feeding toys to make mealtimes fun!
Indoor vs Outdoor?
It is a good idea to consider early on whether you want to keep your kitten indoors only or let them outdoors. There are advantages and disadvantages to both and this will depend upon your personal situation ,such as whether you live in a house or apartment, proximity to main roads, neighbours with pets and the risks such as snakes, cars, ticks and dogs to name a few! Furthermore, it is highly recommended that they are desexed before being able to go outdoors to decrease the number of unwanted cats and kittens in the community.
Another consideration for indoor only cats is to provide them with a safe enclosed outdoor enclosure to provide mental stimulation and enrichment for them but keeping them away from some dangers. Alternatively, you can take them out on a harness with lead as directly supervising them will also reduce some risks of being outdoors.
Keeping kittens indoors straight away from when you acquire them will mean they don’t know any diffrent and can have a happy and safe life indoors.
There are many options for parasite preventatives for kittens and cats and it can be quite confusing! Firstly you need to consider what parasites actually pose a threat to your kitten. This will depend on whether they go outdoors as well as your geographical location, although I still like to recommend tick prevention for indoor cats regardless. This also include flea prevention as other animals may bring fleas into the house and of course your cat could escape and come into contact with fleas outdoors! If you are unsure what your kitten needs do chat to your vet for their recommendations.
Intestinal worms
Kittens need to be wormed every 2 weeks until 12 weeks of age, and then monthly until 6 months of age and then every 3 months although many choose to continue with monthly worming. Heavy worm burdens are life threatening for kittens due to their small size and naïve immune system. Some worms are also zoonotic meaning that they can get spread to humans so it is definitely worthwhile to make sure they are uptodate with worming prevention especially if you have children at home!
Products include tablets, spot-ons and combination products which also cover for heartworm and fleas and some for ticks as well. Giving kittens and cats a tablet can be challenging so do look into spot on’s that also cover for intestinal worms.
Tapeworm
There are two main tapeworms that can affect kittens, one is the flea tapeworm and the other is the hydatid tapeworm. Hydatid tapeworms are found in raw offal and meat so only cats who are fed raw meat or who hunt things like lizards are at risk of picking this parasite up. Tapeworm coverage is through a drug called praziquantel which is found in some worming tablets (drontal or milbemax) or a tapeworm specific tablet or a topical spot on product called profender.
Heartworm
Heartworm is a parasite that is spread by mosquitos so therefore we recommend even indoor cats use heartworm prevention. Again prevention is always better than the cure! We don’t really know the prevalence of heartworm in Australia but it can be both difficult to diagnose and treat therefore prevention is key! Using a combination spot on product or a monthly heartworm and intestinal all wormer tablet (milbemax) are some options to consider.
Fleas and Ticks
We recommend all year flea prevention for cats and even for indoor cats. Both flea and tick prevention is a must especially for cats who spend any amount of time outdoors and paralysis ticks are prevalent around the East Coast of Australia especially. There are topical products available which are combination products providing coverage for heartworm, most intestinal worms, fleas and ticks (such as revolution plus and bravecto plus).
Nutrition
Your kitten needs to be fed a complete and balanced diet designed for growth. I like to recommend premium diets as they are nutrient dense, tailored to the individual needs of specific age groups, sizes/breeds, and would often go the extra mile to include more beneficial ingredients and invest in research to ensure the quality of their products. Alternatively, there is also natural food available which focuses on utilising natural ingredients. Feeding a mix of both dry and wet food can boost a kitten’s water intake and help keep mealtimes interesting for them!
Recommended brands include Royal Canin, Hills and Advance. Natural brands include Black Hawk and Ivory Coat. I can understand that deciding what to feed your kitten can be quite overwhelming so do ask your vet if you are unsure on what to choose.
Using feeding puzzles is an excellent way to mentally entertain your kitten and encourage them to work for their food. This can add fun into meal times, makes them slow down their eating (especially if they usually try to inhale their food!) and helps encourage their instinctive problem solving skills.
Pet Insurance
This is an ideal time to consider the need for pet insurance. There are a few reasons that kittenhood is a great time to take out a pet insurance policy.
Pet insurance will exclude any pre-existing conditions. For example if your pet has been diagnosed with a problem before taking out pet insurance such as skin condition, then you will not be able to claim for this when you purchase a policy. Therefore, taking out pet insurance as a young kitten before any accident or illness has occurred is likely to be financially beneficial.
Kittens are curious and can get up to mischief! Having pet insurance will provide peace of mind that you can cover the cost of treatment required for accidents, such as being hit by a car or swallowing a sharp object such as a sewing needle, and in cases of illness such as tummy upsets.
Some cats are going to acquire costly medical conditions that are not preventable, such as allergic skin disease or diabetes, both of which can involve multiple ongoing medications and treatments, and again having pet insurance before this occurs is likely to be highly financially valuable.
Vaccinations and Microchipping
Vaccinations are an important part of caring for your new kitten. Vaccinations help protect against diseases such as, enteritis ( a viral gastroenteritis), and cat flu and will either provide protection, by the kitten showing no clinical signs, or at least they will become less ill from specific diseases. Kittens usually have 3 vaccinations a month apart with the first one starting at 6-8 weeks of age. You can check with your vet what vaccinations your kitten will require and exactly how many, depending on the age of your kitten and your location.
Your kitten will likely already be microchipped before purchase, but do confirm this and make sure you are aware of the microchip number and ensure ownership has been updated with your details just in case they go missing.
Grooming
Grooming is particularly important for medium and long -haired cats and if you start brushing your kitten from a young age, they will become used to it and enjoy it as a form of bonding with you and routine care. Positively rewarding your kitten with a tasty treat, pat or gentle praise will help your kitten associate grooming with positive experiences.
Grooming helps to remove excess hair, dead skin, dirt and dust, grass seeds and will also help to detangle and prevent knots and matting. It also aids in reducing the occurrence of hairballs by removing any loose hair that would otherwise be swallowed when they groom themselves. It can also aid in spreading the natural oils in their coat which provides a healthy and shiny coat.
Not to mention removing excess cat hair form your house due to moulting!
Dental
Starting a good oral hygiene program whilst kittens are young will start them off for success. At first kittens will still have their baby teeth but this can be a good time to start getting them used to toothbrushing. It can be useful to start off with a flavoured veterinary toothpaste and then slowly introducing a finger brush. Toothbrushing is the gold standard of care for oral health. Other options include dental treats such as greenies (but these are only recommended form 10-12 months of age), water additives, dental gels and powders.
Dental disease is such a common issue us vets see in practice so helping to prevent this condition will save money and discomfort for your kitten as they age. Cats are notoriously bad chewers and many prefer to swallow their food whole which prevents any cleaning of their teeth whilst eating!
Take home points
Cats can add so much love and enrichment to your life but remember they can easily be a 20 year commitment! In practice I see so many senior cats who have grown up with their human families and have become such a part of their life stories. Insurance will add peace of mind, providing you with options at times when your beloved cat may become unwell or injured and it can be tailored to your needs.
Dr Angie with Axel
Written by Dr. Angie, the brilliant veterinary mind behind Pet Circle Insurance. With over 15 years of experience in the veterinary field and hands-on experience in handling insurance claims, Angie is a trusted and reliable source of truth when it comes to all things pet-related. Her passion for small animal medicine, nutrition, and the human-animal bond shines through in her work with the Pet Circle Veterinary Squad, where she provides top-notch advice and support to pet owners.
It is such an exciting time welcoming a puppy into your life and there is nothing better than bonding with your new bundle of fluff! It can also be quite overwhelming in acquiring all the necessities to keep them happy and healthy. Fear not, this guide is designed to give you a helping hand with all things concerning puppy vaccination, how frequently they need them and how much they will cost.
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Why does my puppy need vaccinations?
Vaccinations are a very important part of health care for your puppy as they help protect against and prevent some potentially fatal diseases. Initially your pup will acquire their antibodies to some diseases from their mum, but eventually these maternal antibodies will decrease and your pup will need to produce some of their own. Vaccinations will stimulate an immune response in your pup and their own antibodies against the diseases will be produced.
We don’t know exactly when mum’s antibodies will stop offering protection, hence we need to give a course of vaccinations to make sure all puppies are protected. Puppies are given a series of vaccinations not to “boost” the vaccine, but to ensure that a puppy’s Maternally Derived Antibodies (MDAs) do not override the vaccine.
A puppy’s mother will have antibodies against a variety of diseases that she would have been exposed to or have been vaccinated against. She passes these antibodies onto her puppy, but over a period of weeks these antibody levels drop and the puppy is no longer protected.
What are the different dog vaccines?
The core vaccine (which all dogs should receive) is known as the C3 vaccination and protects against Parvovirus, Distemper and Adenovirus. These diseases are still out there, and can be deadly and that is why it is so important to vaccinate your pup.
Non-core vaccines are administered depending on the risk (based on the dog’s lifestyle, location and risk of exposure to infection). A common non-core vaccine in Australia is one that protects against kennel cough (Canine parainfluenza virus and Bordetella bronchiseptica). The kennel cough vaccine together with the core C3 vaccine make up the C5 vaccination which is recommended for dogs who come into contact with other dogs.
The Leptospirosis vaccination is recommended for dogs who are in at-risk areas (speak to your vet if you are not sure about this).
There are different forms of vaccines such as injectable (usually given subcutaneously under the skin), intranasal (given into the nostrils) and oral (given into the mouth). Some vaccines are also longer-lasting than others meaning you only need to give one every 3 years as apposed to yearly. But the kennel cough vaccine needs to be given annually.
Vaccination Schedule
Puppies require a course of 3 vaccinations a month apart and these usually start at 6-8 weeks of age.
Puppy Vaccination Schedule*
6-8 weeks
First Vaccination
c3 vaccination
10-12 weeks
Booster Vaccination
c5 vaccination
14-16 weeks
Final puppy vaccination
c5 vaccination (depending on brand may just require c3)
Every year after
Annual booster vaccination
Dependant on brand
*Depending on the brand of vaccine your vet will tailor a vaccine program for your pup
Puppy vaccinations and socialisation
Puppies should have had all of their routine puppy vaccinations before going to public places like parks, as this will reduce their risk of coming into contact with other dogs or an environment that could harbour a source of infectious disease. The exception to this is puppy preschool, as it is conducted in a clean environment and all the puppies will have had at least their first vaccination.
Those first few weeks of bringing your puppy home is the prime period for socialisation. It is important to expose them to different humans, pets and novel situations (all in a positive way) to set them up to be a confident dog for life! This is when they do a lot of their learning and the more positive encounters with people and other dogs and pets will help them to have a well rounded approach to life.
Vaccine Preventable Diseases
Parvovirus
Canine Parvovirus causes a life-threatening diarrhoea. The virus destroys the lining of the intestinal tract, which leads to blood loss. The damage to the lining of the gastrointestinal tract also allows bacteria from the gastrointestinal tract to enter the general bloodstream, causing sepsis. Many dogs who contract parvovirus will die or become extremely unwell. Furthermore Parvovirus is HIGHLY contagious. It is spread by exposure to contaminated faeces or grass and footpaths on which contaminated faeces have been deposited. It survives in the environment for years! Vaccination is critical for the prevention of Parvovirus in puppies.
Canine Distemper Virus
Canine Distemper Virus is contracted through contact with the respiratory secretions of infected animals. The virus spreads through the respiratory tract, and then through the bloodstream and to the central nervous system. This results in neurological abnormalities such as problems with movement and balance, twitching, and ultimately seizures, blindness and often death. While Distemper was common in Australian domestic dogs in the 1960s and 1970s, rates of infection have dropped significantly due to effective vaccination programs. It is still, however, a serious threat to our domestic dogs because the disease persists in the wild canids such as foxes, wild dogs and dingoes.
Adenovirus
The virus is contracted through respiratory secretions from infected dogs. It localises in the tonsils from where it enters the bloodstream and travels to the liver, kidneys and eyes. The virus then replicates in the liver causing necrosis, which basically means that the liver tissue dies. Like Canine Distemper Virus, this virus has been almost eliminated from domestic dog populations through effective vaccination programs, but the virus is very resistant in the environment and may still be present in local wild dog populations.
Bordetella Bronchiseptica and Canine Parainfluenza Virus.
(These organisms are responsible for what is commonly referred to as “kennel cough”)
Bordetella bronchiseptica
This is a bacterial respiratory infection responsible for most of the clinical signs associated with “kennel cough.” It is caught the same way that we catch a cold, through airborne respiratory secretions. Dogs will pass it to each other at the dog parks when they sniff and lick each other.
Bordetella bronchiseptica is not life threatening, but it will cause a persistent honking cough, which many pet parents will confuse with choking. It also produces a mucus in the trachea which will be coughed up as a liquid froth, often giving the appearance of vomiting.
Vaccinated dogs can still become infected with Bordetella bronchiseptica, but the clinical signs will be milder than in unvaccinated dogs, your dog should still be bright and alert despite the presence of a cough. Unvaccinated dogs who become infected with Bordetella are susceptible to infection with secondary bacteria that can lead to serious pneumonia.
Canine Parainfluenza Virus
Like BordetelIa bronchiseptica, Parainfluenza is caught via airborne respiratory secretions. The virus replicates in the nasal passages, the pharynx, trachea and lungs, causing a persistent cough similar to that in patients with bronchitis. Infections are generally not life-threatening, but vaccination is essential for dogs who socialise as they often touch noses or lick each other.
How much do vaccinations cost?
This can be very variable depending on the vaccine you are getting for your pup but expect to pay anywhere from $100-$150. This will include the coat of the vaccine as well as an examination of your puppy by the veterinarian.
Your puppy will likely have had their first vaccination and health check by a vet before you purchase them. But they will still require further vaccinations so don’t forget to check their vaccination card or health record to see when this is due.
Can puppies and dogs have adverse reactions to vaccinations?
Your pup or dog may experience a reaction to a vaccine as it causes immune stimulation. Extreme and potentially dangerous reactions are very rare with the advanced technology of the newer vaccines. Although an anaphylactic reaction is still possible and usually occurs very soon after the vaccine is given.
The most common reaction would be pain at the injection site, so refrain from touching your pup in this area for a day or two. Occasionally you may witness lethargy, a reduced appetite and a mild fever but treatment is often not required. If you are concerned about any potential side effects, do contact your vet for advice.
Tips for your first vet consult with your puppy
As mentioned vaccinations are both important to prevent diseases as well as decreasing the severity of some diseases. Another extremely important aspect is that your puppy will also receive a physical health examination with your vet. This gives your vet the opportunity to look for any developmental or congenital abnormalities and provides you with the opportunity to ask any questions you may have about caring for your puppy. We want this to be a very positive first experience for you and your puppy and there are some tips that can help achieve this goal.
Give your puppy the opportunity to toilet before travelling to the vet appointment
Place them in a suitable carrier or device that keeps them safe and secure
Take some treats with you to the consult to help associate the vet visit with positive rewards
Take all paperwork you may have including vaccine records and microchip information
Enquire what parasite preventative your puppy will require in your specific location
Written by Dr. Angie, the brilliant veterinary mind behind Pet Circle Insurance. With over 15 years of experience in the veterinary field and hands-on experience in handling insurance claims, Angie is a trusted and reliable source of truth when it comes to all things pet-related. Her passion for small animal medicine, nutrition, and the human-animal bond shines through in her work with the Pet Circle Veterinary Squad, where she provides top-notch advice and support to pet owners.
An important part about owning a pet is caring for their health and wellbeing. Bringing a kitten home for the first time can be overwhelming but filled with so much joy and fun! Apart from basic care of feeding, litter trays, worming and toys there is also their veterinary care. Just like puppies, kittens also require vaccinations to help prevent against diseases and at this time they will get a health check up with the vet to ensure they are healthy and growing as they should be! Vaccinating your kitten is just part of the care you can provide for them but sometimes illnesses and injuries that are out of your control may occur so do consider cat insurance for your new addition!
When you first acquire your little bundle of fluff, they will usually have had their initial vaccination and health check but they will require at least 1-2 more depending on their age and what your vet recommends. Failure to give your kitten the vaccination they require can lead to serious disease or illness. So lets get into it and discuss why and what vaccinations your kitten needs, how much this may cost and how to go about doing this.
Table of Contents
Why are vaccinations important for kittens?
Vaccinations are both important to help prevent some diseases or to make the illness less severe for the kitten as well as getting a health check with the vet. This is a great opportunity for the vet to assess the health of your kitten and provide advice, guidance and answers to any questions you may have. Making the veterinary appointment as positive as possible can help to decrease stress for your kitten.
Vaccination schedule
Kittens require a course of 3 vaccinations which are usually given 4 weeks or 1 month apart. Their first vaccination is given at 6-8 weeks of age and during this appointment they will likely get their first health check by the vet. This is also an ideal time to get a microchip inserted. A microchip is a very small chip (about the size of a grain of rice) which is inserted under the skin between the shoulder blades. This chip can be identified by scanning and provide a unique number which is associated with the pet’s as well as the owners details.
Example Kitten Vaccination Schedule*
First Vaccination
F3 vaccination – Feline Panleukopenia, Calicivirus and Herpes Virus
2nd Vaccination
F3 vaccination – Feline Panleukopenia, Calicivirus and Herpes Virus
3rd Vaccination
F3 vaccination – Feline Panleukopenia, Calicivirus and Herpes Virus
Annual Booster
F3 vaccination – Feline Panleukopenia, Calicivirus and Herpes Virus
* Your vet will recommend the best suited vaccination schedule for your kitten
The common core vaccine in Australia is the F3 vaccine. This vaccine helps protect your kitten against horrible diseases such as flu and enteritis ( inflammation in the intestines). The actual diseases that the F3 vaccination protects against are: Feline Panleukopenia, Feline Calicivirus and Feline Herpes Virus. Yearly or annual vaccinations are then required to ensure adequate protection and this is required for cats who use boarding facilities but I still recommend it for any cat. It is best to chat to your vet about what vaccinations your kitten or cat requires and how often they should be vaccinated as this can depend on your location and whether they have access to the outdoors or are indoors only.
Non-core vaccines are given to kittens and cats in specific risk categories so again it is best to discuss this with your vet. Common non-core vaccines include FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency virus), FeLV (Feline leukaemia virus) and Chlamydia felis.
Vaccine Preventable Diseases (which make up the F3 vaccine)
Feline Panleukopenia
This is a disease caused by infection with Feline Parvovirus and it is highly contagious. It can survive in the environment for up to a year and it can cause severe diarrhoea in kittens which can be deadly. The vaccine is very effective and provides complete protection against the disease.
Feline Calicivirus
Calicivirus is one of the viruses that causes cat flu. It tends to cause watery eyes, sneezing, mouth ulcers, fever as well as lameness. Cats that have been infected with the virus can recover from the disease, but many become lifelong carriers of the virus. It spreads easily and quickly and so vaccination is required to control it.
Feline Herpesvirus -1
This virus is one of the main culprits in causing cat flu. Infection causes sneezing, nasal discharge and sore watery eyes and cats can be at risk of developing secondary bacterial infections. Cats that recover from this disease can still be lifelong carriers of the virus and become sick again when stressed or immunocompromised. Vaccination helps to control the spread of the virus.
How much do vaccinations cost?
There is some variation as to how much the vaccination will cost. But you should expect to pay anywhere from $80 – $150. This will usually cover the cost and administration of the vaccine as well as a veterinary examination for your cat. This is a great opportunity to discuss any questions you may have about your kitten, especially if this is your first time owning a cat.
If you are unsure what else your cat may need such as flea and worming prevention, this should also be mentioned and your vet can recommend a parasite prevention plan dependent on your location. Your vet may also discuss desexing with you and when would be the most appropriate time to get this done for your kitten. Rescue kittens and those from the RSPCA or welfare shelter may already be desexed.
Can kittens and cats have adverse reactions to vaccines?
Severe reactions to vaccines are quite rare but mild reactions may occur. The current available feline vaccines do have an excellent safety record. If an adverse reaction does occur the common signs are lethargy, going off their food (anorexia) and possibly a fever for a few days. Cats can be a bit sensitive over the site of the injection location so best not to touch this area for a day or two.
Tips for travelling with your kitten
Some tips are to use a suitable, safe and fully contained carrier to transport your kitten in and so they can’t escape; putting a few treats in their carrier or taking a favourite toy or blanket for comfort; spraying the carrier with a feliway pheromone spray before use to promote feelings of calmness for your kitten; and lastly leaving out the carrier in the home for a few days or hours prior to your consultation and so the kitten and smell and explore it before having to travel in it for the first time.
Try not to feed your kitten a few hours before travel to try and prevent them toileting on the way!
Line your carrier with some newspaper or something disposable that can be thrown away if they do toilet in it
Have a suitable carrier that keeps your kitten safe and secured but with adequate ventilation
Don’t blast the air conditioning directly on the carrier and keep the music at a low level:)
Using calming products such as feliway spray which can be directly sprayed onto the carrier 30 minutes before use
Dr Angie with Axel
Written by Dr. Angie, the brilliant veterinary mind behind Pet Circle Insurance. With over 15 years of experience in the veterinary field and hands-on experience in handling insurance claims, Angie is a trusted and reliable source of truth when it comes to all things pet-related. Her passion for small animal medicine, nutrition, and the human-animal bond shines through in her work with the Pet Circle Veterinary Squad, where she provides top-notch advice and support to pet owners.
You may have recently bought a kitten or recently adopted a cat and are now deciding “should my cat be indoors only or outdoors?”! This is a very personal choice with benefits and disadvantages to both, so I will share my thoughts and experience below to help you with the decision.
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Indoor life for a cat
Many people prefer to keep their feline companion indoors and because of this, there are many products and information to help best equip them for a happy and fulfilled indoor life!
Keeping a cat indoors may decrease some risk of injury that they can experience if they were allowed outdoors. This includes: being hit by a car, dog attacks, cat fights, paralysis ticks and snakes (just to name a few)!
I do still like to recommend using some preventatives that includes tick control as ticks can still be brought inside by humans or other pets who are allowed outdoors. Indoor life is not free form risk and cats can still get sick, injured and stressed living indoors so pet insurance is still a good idea for indoor cats, just be aware of what accidents or illness are covered by ‘indoor ‘policies.
Natural Instincts for indoor cats
Even if brought up indoors from a kitten, cats will still have instincts for hunting, scratching, grooming, and climbing. This is completely normal and these instincts should be encouraged, but in a way that is best suited for indoor life. For example, using cat furniture such as scratching posts will help satisfy the urge to scratch.
Did you know that a cat’s paws contain sweat glands so whilst they are scratching, they are actually marking their territory too! You can also discourage scratching your furniture and sofas by placing double sided tape which cats hate!
Other cat furniture such as hammock beds for windows or walls can be very popular with cats as they enjoy sleeping or observing the world from different heights (while enjoy the feeling of security and privacy). Cats love Being at a height that gives a vantage to survey their territory.
Cat Playtime
Another strong and instinctive behaviour is the hunting instinct. You can help satisfy this urge to hunt by playing with toys with your cat, especially ones that you can dangle and move to allow them to pounce and chase. This can also help strengthen your bond with them.
Grooming your furry-friend
We all know cats love to groom, but did you know why? In the wild felines groom to minimise shedding of their coat which can help lower the chance of leaving behind traces of fur. You can encourage cats to groom by not disturbing them during a grooming session and brushing them regularly to help maintain their coat which can prevent matting and hairballs.
Toileting
Cats are clean creatures and like a clean litter tray. Instinctively they prefer not to use a dirty tray where the smell can get onto them making it easier for predators to sniff them! Encouraging your cat to use their litter tray is also important to prevent urinary issues and toileting outside of the litter tray.
This can be helped by keeping litter trays clean, ensuring they are placed in a private location and at least two available to use as required. Choice is important, a good rule of thumb is to always have one more litter tray than the amount of cats you own.
Cat Feeding
As mentioned, cats do like to hunt and their feline ancestors had to hunt for their food. Why not make mealtimes interesting and make them work for their food? This can be done by using interactive feeding methods such as treat dispensers, food mazes, puzzles and lickimats for wet food.
This can help to decrease boredom, increase mental stimulation as well as encouraging some more activity (especially for those sedentary and perhaps overweight indoor cats!). Consider dental kibble and treats to help assist with preventing dental disease.
Outdoor Life
Outdoor life for cats can be filled with stimulation and excitement but also provides more danger from outdoor threats. There are things you can do to help keep them as safe as possible whilst roaming outside including considering pet insurance. I would recommend keeping your feline friend indoors for the first few weeks to help them settle into their new environment, this can be a stressful time for them and you don’t want them getting lost and not remembering where home is!
You want to ensure your cat is neutered and up to date with vaccinations before letting them out, this helps to control unwanted pregnancies, spread of diseases and fighting!
Outdoor Enclosure for cats
If you just want your cat to have a taste of the outdoors but still be safe from threats, then an outdoor enclosure is a great option. You can buy one or even design and make one yourself. This allows them to see the outside and experience the feel of the outdoors but not let the get into mischief! You can add to the experience with hammocks, scratching posts, a litter tray, and some toys for them to play with!
How to identify a cat
The most important thing for outdoor cats is the ability to be identified in case they get lost, hurt or in trouble. Apart from a collar with tag (engraved with owner details) there are now tracking devices with gps, where you can track your cat at any time! All cats should be microchipped whether they are indoor or outdoors and these microchips can be scanned at any vet clinic or shelter and their unique number will be associated with your contact details.
TIP! You can attach a bell to their collar, which can help warn birds and other potential prey that they are being stalked! This can reduce you cat brining you a ‘gift’ in the middle of the night.
Safety first
Consider the outdoors environment you intend letting them have access to and nearby areas they might roam. Ensure there are no toxic plants such as lilies, daffodils, tulips, snake plant, aloe vera or floxglove around! Also make sure there is water available to them when they are outdoors, as they get a lot more physical activity than their indoors counterparts.
Training an outdoor cat
Another tip to try is to train them to come home! You can achieve this by providing tasty treats or meals, calling them and lots of cuddles and affection when they do return. By doing this, you can encourage them to come home before dusk or dark (which is a favourite time for cats to fight!). I would encourage you to let your cat out in the morning rather than night when they could be more easily involved in a road accident in the dark.
If you want to let you cat have a taste of the outdoors but would prefer them not to roam you can let them outside on a harness and lead with you present. This way they can still sniff and walk around, eat some grass, roll on the ground but you know they are secure and won’t be going too far!
Both indoor and outdoor cats can benefit from insurance to help protect them, our policy covers indoor and outdoor cats the same. Outdoor cats can have falls or accidents and often get parasites like ticks, we protect for both.
Dr Angie with Axel
Written by Dr. Angie, the brilliant veterinary mind behind Pet Circle Insurance. With over 15 years of experience in the veterinary field and hands-on experience in handling insurance claims, Angie is a trusted and reliable source of truth when it comes to all things pet-related. Her passion for small animal medicine, nutrition, and the human-animal bond shines through in her work with the Pet Circle Veterinary Squad, where she provides top-notch advice and support to pet owners.
