1255 Niagara Street Buffalo, NY 14213
Puppy and Kitten Wellness Exams in Buffalo
Regular wellness exams are an important part of puppy and kitten veterinary care. These exams allow our veterinarians to monitor your pet’s growth and development, as well as catch any potential health issues early on. During these exams, our Buffalo, NY veterinarians will also discuss any concerns you may have and provide recommendations for maintaining your pet’s health.
Puppy and Kitten Vaccinations in Buffalo
Vaccinations are a crucial part of puppy and kitten veterinary care. These vaccinations protect your pet from potentially deadly diseases such as rabies, distemper, and parvovirus. Our veterinarians will create a vaccination schedule for your pet based on their age and risk factors. It is important to stay up to date on these vaccinations to keep your pet healthy and protected.
Here’s a basic outline for the recommended vaccine schedule for puppies and kittens:
Puppy Vaccine Schedule
- 6-8 weeks: Distemper, parvovirus, adenovirus, and parainfluenza
- 10-12 weeks: Distemper, parvovirus, adenovirus, parainfluenza, and leptospirosis
- 14-16 weeks: Distemper, parvovirus, adenovirus, parainfluenza, leptospirosis, and rabies
- 12-16 months: Distemper, parvovirus, adenovirus, parainfluenza, leptospirosis, and rabies (booster)
Kitten Vaccine Schedule
- 6-8 weeks: Feline herpesvirus, feline calicivirus, and feline panleukopenia
- 10-12 weeks: Feline herpesvirus, feline calicivirus, and feline panleukopenia
- 14-16 weeks: Feline herpesvirus, feline calicivirus, feline panleukopenia, and rabies
- 12-16 months: Feline herpesvirus, feline calicivirus, feline panleukopenia, and rabies (booster)
Parasites in Puppies and Kittens
Parasites are organisms that live on or inside another organism, known as the host, and rely on the host for survival. They can be found in various forms, including worms, fleas, ticks, and mites. Parasites can cause harm to the host by feeding on their blood, tissues, or organs, and can also transmit diseases.
Common Parasites in Puppies and Kittens
- Roundworms: Roundworms are the most common intestinal parasite found in puppies and kittens. These worms can be passed from the mother to her offspring during pregnancy or through her milk. They can also be contracted by ingesting contaminated soil or feces. Roundworms can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and a pot-bellied appearance in puppies and kittens. In severe cases, they can cause intestinal blockages and even death.
- Hookworms: Hookworms are another common intestinal parasite found in puppies and kittens. They can be contracted through ingestion of contaminated soil or feces, or by larvae penetrating the skin. Hookworms can cause anemia, weight loss, and diarrhea in puppies and kittens. In severe cases, they can cause death, especially in young or weak animals.
- Tapeworms: Tapeworms are a common parasite found in puppies and kittens that can be contracted by ingesting infected fleas or rodents. These worms can cause weight loss, diarrhea, and an itchy rear end in pets. In severe cases, they can cause intestinal blockages and malnutrition. Fleas – Fleas are not technically parasites, but they are a common pest that can affect puppies and kittens. These tiny insects feed on the blood of animals and can cause itching, skin irritation, and even anemia in severe cases. Fleas can also transmit tapeworms to pets if ingested.
The Importance of Parasite Testing
It is crucial to have your new puppy or kitten tested for parasites as soon as possible. Many parasites can be passed from the mother to her offspring, and early detection is key to preventing serious health issues.
If your pet is found to have parasites, our veterinarians will prescribe the appropriate treatment. It is important to follow their instructions carefully and to continue treatment until all parasites are eliminated. Failure to do so can result in reinfestation and potential health complications for your pet.
What is Heartworm?
Heartworm is a parasitic disease that affects both dogs and cats. It is caused by a worm called Dirofilaria immitis, which is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. The worms can grow up to 12 inches in length and live in the heart, lungs, and blood vessels of the infected animal. If left untreated, heartworm can be fatal for both dogs and cats.
Why is Testing for Heartworm Important?
Testing for heartworm is crucial for the health of your pet. The earlier the disease is detected, the better the chances of successful treatment.
When Should Puppies and Kittens be Tested for Heartworm?
Puppies and kittens should be tested for heartworm at their first visit to the veterinarian, usually around 6-8 weeks of age. This is because they can be born with the disease if their mother was infected during pregnancy. If the mother was not infected, they should be tested again at 6 months of age.
What is FIV/FeLV?
FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus) and FeLV (Feline Leukemia Virus) are two common viral infections that can affect cats. FIV attacks the immune system, making cats more susceptible to other infections and diseases. FeLV affects the bone marrow and can lead to anemia, cancer, and other health issues.
Why is Testing for FIV/FeLV Important?
Testing for FIV/FeLV is important for the health of your kitten and the safety of other cats in the household. These viruses can be transmitted through bites, grooming, and sharing food and water bowls. If your kitten tests positive, they should be kept away from other cats to prevent the spread of the virus.
When Should Kittens be Tested for FIV/FeLV?
Kittens should be tested for FIV/FeLV at their first visit to the veterinarian, usually around 6-8 weeks of age. If the mother was infected, they should be tested again at 6 months of age.
Spaying and Neutering in Buffalo
Spaying and neutering are important procedures for the health and well-being of your pet. These procedures not only prevent unwanted litters, but they also have health benefits such as reducing the risk of certain cancers and behavioral issues. Our Buffalo veterinarians will discuss the best time to spay or neuter your pet based on their breed and size.
When it’s time for your pet to undergo spaying or neutering, we’ll gladly refer you to one of our affiliated hospitals: Ellicott Street Animal Hospital at 716-852-8276 or North Buffalo Animal Hospital at 716-876-6023
Find a Puppy and Kitten Vet Near Buffalo, NY
Finding a puppy and kitten vet near you in Buffalo, Erie County is easy with our online request-an-appointment feature. Both new and existing clients seeking puppy and kitten care may request an appointment at our Buffalo vet clinic.
