From healthy kitten to happy cat
Every new kitten owner wants their cuddly new companion to grow into a healthy, happy cat. So it's important that you play a part in ensuring your kitten stays in good health. For example, correct feeding and completing the first course of vaccinations are essential for her to thrive. But also in that first year, pay regular visits to your vet for check-ups. That way, you can rest assured that your kitten is growing and developing to her full potential.
Maintaining a purrfect coat and healthy skin
The right diet, regular grooming and clean, comfortable living conditions should keep your kitten's coat and skin healthy. But unfortunately, kittens (just like adult cats) can suffer from skin conditions. Their hair can become dull, and may fall out, or their skin can become red, itchy and sore. The causes of these conditions vary, from sensitivity to a particular food, insect bites, allergies, mites, parasites, or even over-grooming.
Fleas
Some kittens develop an allergy to flea saliva; this is known as "flea-bite hypersensitivity" or flea allergy. If your kitten has this condition, she'll come out in itchy, crusty spots on her skin. And a single flea bite can cause a condition known as "miliary dermatitis" with the same unpleasant symptoms. If you notice any of these signs in your kitten, contact your vet right away and you'll be prescribed something to relieve the irritation and most importantly something to get rid of the fleas.
Tasty Tips
Ringworm
No, Ringworm isn't a parasite; it's the name given to a fungal condition that brings a kitten's skin out in a circular rash. Ringworm can be passed from cat to cat but also from cat to human. It's not easy to spot, so if you only have a suspicion that your kitten has a coat or skin problem, it's best to get in touch with your vet.
Your kitten's ears
Regular, gentle handling of your kitten, and especially her ears, will enable you to check them for problems without alarming her. And if your kitten does have a problem, you'll soon know about it. Firstly, her ear will be lowered, and she'll be likely to shake her head quite a lot, too. Also, if you happen to notice any grey or dark brown dry or waxy deposits, they're a sure sign of mites. Happily, they can be easily treated by your vet.
Your kitten's eyes
As you'd expect, your kitten's eyes should be clear and bright, with no discharge. Any stickiness in her eyes could be the result of an infection. Bathe the discharge from your kitten's eyes regularly, using a solution of warm water and salt (about a teaspoon to a pint is a good guide). Because the infection could have many causes it's best to take your kitten to the vet.
Catchooo!!
Sneezing can also be a sign of upper respiratory disease, often called 'cat flu', so if you notice anything more than the occasional sneeze, a visit to the vet is advised.
But it's also worth remembering that sneezing could be the result of pollen inhalation, a blade of grass or grass seed, dust, household sprays or cigarette smoke.
Related products
Hill's Science Diet Adult Tender Dinners Can Variety Pack Cat Food
Delectable chunks with tender chicken smothered in a rich gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Healthy Cuisine Roasted Chicken & Rice Medley Cat Food
Delicious roasted chicken and rice in a mouthwatering sauce
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Chicken, Vegetable & Rice Stew Cat Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Hill's Science Diet Adult Savory Beef Entrée Cat Food
Precisely balanced nutrition with the delicious taste of gourmet savory beef to help fuel the energy needs of cats during the prime of their life
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Cat Food
Highly digestible food that is gentle on the stomach. Nourishes skin & promotes lustrous fur.
Hill's Science Diet Adult Light Chicken Recipe Cat Food
Fewer calories for less active cats
Hill's Science Diet Adult Hairball Control Savory Chicken Entrée Cat Food
Natural fiber comfortably reduces hairballs
Hill's Science Diet Kitten Tender Chicken Dinner
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Hill's Science Diet Kitten Savory Entrée Can Variety Pack
Precisely balanced nutrition with the delicious taste of minced liver & chicken to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
null Hill's Science Diet Kitten with Salmon
Precisely balanced nutrition with the delicious taste of minced salmon to help build immunity and a healthy digestive system
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Salmon & Tuna Dinner
Carefully made, gourmet daily nutrition. Tasty chunks with Salmon & Tuna in a decadent gravy. Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous fur.
Hill's Science Diet Adult Tender Chicken Dinner cat food
Delectable chunks with tender chicken smothered in a rich gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin
Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous fur
Hill's Science Diet Adult Chicken Recipe Cat Food
Supports lean muscle and beautiful fur for adult cats
Hill's Science Diet Adult Turkey & Liver Casserole Cat Food
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult 11+ Indoor Chicken Recipe Cat Food
Supports brain health and beautiful fur in mature indoor cats
Hill's Science Diet Adult Light Liver & Chicken Entrée Cat Food
Low calorie formula with the delicious taste of minced liver & chicken to help promote an ideal body weight
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Senior Vitality Chicken & Rice Recipe Cat Food
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Hill's Science Diet Kitten No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Supports healthy brain, eye & immune system development
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Chicken Recipe Cat Food
Supports energy level and beautiful fur in mature cats
Related articles
How to Get Your Cat to Take a Pill
Wondering how to get your cat to take a pill? This guide provides you with tactics for how to give a cat a pill!
Senior Cat Accessories & Household Changes: What Your Aging Cat Needs
Discover the senior cat accessories your older kitty might benefit from and how you can make a few minor home changes to help your cat as they age.
All About Kittens: A Comprehensive Guide for New Pet Parents
Preparing for a new kitten? Learn helpful tips for bringing home a feline friend, preparing your house, supplies you'll need, feeding tips & more.
Why Do Cats Meow?
Learn what your cat's meow really means, so you can understand what they are trying to communicate to you.
Are Cats Good With Kids?
Are cats good with kids? Happily, the answer is yes! Use these tips to find the best cat for your family.
Brushing & Food: Keys to Maintaining Your Cat's Oral Health
Brushing your cat's teeth is just as important as brushing your own. Learn signs or oral health problems in your cat and how to avoid them.
How to Tell if Your Cat has a Fever
Ever wondered if your cat is under the weather? Learn how to check to see if she has a fever and what steps you can take to help her feel better.
Training Your Cat: Basic Things to Work On
With proper understanding and patience, cats can be trained. Learn how to properly train your new cat or kitten with these easy-to-follow tips.
Caring for a Sick Kitten
Learn about common illnesses and health concerns among kittens, how you can spot their symptoms and steps you can take to prevent them from happening.
Diabetes in Cats: Causes, Signs & Treatments
Know the causes of diabetes in felines to better understand how to prevent it in your cat. Ask your vet for treatment options.
Finding Your New Kitten: Where to Look
If you're interested in getting a kitten, read this article to find out about the different places you can get one from adoption to pedigree breeders.
Top Cat Pet Peeves: What Cats Hate
Just like humans, cats have pet peeves that drive them crazy. Learn common things your cat probably hates and how you can make her feel more comfortable.
Why Exercise is Important to Keep Your Cat Healthy
Learn how to keep your new kitten active and playful, which can help her maintain her ideal weight.
Feline Pancreatitis: What You Need to Know
Learn from a veterinarian: How to spot the serious signs of feline pancreatitis, emergency care, and what kind of diet to feed her while she's recovering.
What's a Normal Cat Temperature? Tips for Checking Your Cat's Vitals
Learn tips for checking your cat's vital signs, including things like proper body temperature, and why it's a good way to monitor their health.
What are the visible signs of aging in cats?
When is a cat considered a senior? Learn how to recognize signs of aging in cats and tips to support your cat's age through better nutrition and care.
Making a DIY Cat-Proof Toilet Paper Holder
Here's a simple, cost-effective way to create a DIY cat-proof toilet paper holder cover that keeps your feline friend from destroying your TP.
Cat Ear Emotions: How Cat Ears Move With Their Mood
Learn how your cat's ear language and movements can show you their underlying emotions, including what a variety of different positions mean.
Cat & Kitten Swollen Belly: Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment
Learn the many causes that can give your cat or kitten a swollen belly, from organ-related issues to simple gas, how it's diagnosed and treatment options.
Service Cats: Giving Emotional Support to Pet Parents
Read all about service cats, including how these special felines can comfort humans and provide emotional support for a number of medical issues.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.