How to Give Your Kitten a Health Check at Home

As a new kitten owner, learning how to give your kitten a health check at home is invaluable for early detection of issues and building a strong bond. While a vet will provide professional care and vaccinations, you can monitor your kitten's wellbeing by routinely performing gentle, systematic checks. This guide walks you through essential steps to keep your kitten happy and healthy.

Handling Your Kitten Comfortably

Choose a calm moment when your kitten is relaxed and not playful, perhaps during a quiet cuddle time on your lap or a soft surface. Handle your kitten gently with reassuring strokes, using this opportunity to make the experience positive and stress-free to build trust over time. Aim to do these checks weekly to form a good routine.

Step-by-Step Home Health Check

Step 1: Observe Breathing

Watch your kitten’s resting breathing rate when they are calm or sleeping. Ensure the breathing is smooth, even, and quiet without open-mouthed breathing or excessive noise. Note that brachycephalic breeds like Persian cats may have certain characteristic breathing sounds; your vet can advise what is normal for your breed.

Step 2: Eyes and Ears Inspection

Look closely at your kitten's eyes for brightness, clarity, and lack of discharge or clouding. Pupils should react to light and movement. For the ears, check inside and around for redness, inflammation, wax buildup, or signs of mites such as scratching or debris. Healthy ears should be clean and free of unpleasant odour.

Step 3: Nose and Mouth Check

Your kitten’s nose should be slightly moist and free of crusts or discharge. Look at their teeth and gums carefully – gums should be pink without redness or lumps, and teeth clean without excessive plaque. Avoid forcing the mouth open to prevent injury. Breath should not be foul-smelling; persistent bad breath should be discussed with your vet.

Step 4: Body and Limbs Examination

Run your hands gently over your kitten’s body and limbs, feeling for unusual lumps, bumps, or tender areas. Touch the abdomen softly to check it's not distended or hard. Inspect the paws and claws, unsheathing claws by lightly pressing the skin between the toes. Claws should be intact and not overly long; paw pads should be supple without cracks.

Step 5: Monitor Behaviour and Physical Changes

Pay attention to your kitten’s general behaviour, appetite, and activity levels – changes can signal health concerns. Keep a record of your kitten’s weight as they grow. If anything unusual arises during your checks such as swelling, discharge, breathing difficulties, or behavioural shifts, consult your vet promptly.

Keeping Records and Knowing When to Seek Help

Maintaining a health diary for your kitten helps track their development and any irregularities. Regular vet visits remain essential, especially for vaccinations, flea and worm treatments, and annual check-ups. If you feel uncertain about any signs or symptoms during your home checks, don't hesitate to ask your vet or veterinary nurse. Many practices offer kitten clinics where you can receive advice and reassurance.

By routinely giving your kitten a gentle health check at home, you not only ensure their well-being but also nurture a trusting relationship that will last a lifetime.

For those looking to find a kitten, consider reputable breeders who prioritise health, or explore local rescue centres for adoption options.