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Two vets wearing masks examine a fluffy white cat, using a stethoscope while gently holding the animal in a clinical setting.

Cat healthcare: a guide to keeping your cat or kitten healthy

Sam Prior, a person with curly green hair, and glasses, stands outdoors in front of lush green foliage, wearing a black shirt and smiling slightly at the camera.

Samantha – Cat advisor

Three things you should know

Kittens typically need their first set of vaccinations from nine weeks old, followed by a second set at around twelve weeks.

Annual health checks are essential for adult cats too, as they allow your vet to catch problems early.

Pet insurance can help cover unexpected veterinary costs, which can leave a big hole in your pocket if your cat becomes unwell or injured.

Kitten medical care: the first few months

Before your kitten arrives, it’s worth registering with a vet, so you can be ready for their initial appointments. In the first few months, kittens will need vaccinations, worming, flea treatment, and a general health check.

Vaccinations are typically given in two stages, three to four weeks apart and a booster around twelve months. Kittens should be dewormed every two weeks until they’re twelve weeks old, then less often as they grow.

Your vet will also discuss neutering and microchipping, which is usually done at the same time from around four months of age.

 

Cat medical care: ongoing health as an adult

Once your cat is fully vaccinated and neutered, it’s all about maintaining their health into their adult lives. This involves booster vaccinations, parasite treatment, and annual health checks, alongside watching for any changes in behaviour or health.

 

Vaccinations

Vaccinations protect your cat from several serious and potentially fatal illnesses, including cat flu and feline leukaemia. Your vet will always carry out a health check before vaccinating when they will examine your cat more widely. Booster vaccinations are usually needed every year, depending on the vaccine and your cat’s individual risk factors, such as whether they go outdoors.

A vet in blue gloves prepares to give a small orange and white kitten an injection, while another person gently holds the kitten on a textured surface.

A kitten receiving a vaccination at Woodgreen Pets Charity

Neutering

Neutering helps prevent unwanted litters and can reduce the risk of certain illnesses, including some cancers. It can also reduce undesired behaviours such as spraying and roaming. Most vets recommend neutering both male and female cats from around four months old, depending on your cat’s health and circumstances.

 

Fleas and worms

Regular flea and worm treatment is important for cats of all ages and lifestyles, including indoor cats, who remain at risk despite staying inside. Your cat’s risk depends on factors such as their age, lifestyle, and whether they spend time outdoors, so it is worth asking your vet to recommend a suitable treatment plan rather than relying on over-the-counter products alone.

Prescription flea and worm treatments are only available after your vet has examined your cat, but it’s usually cheaper to buy from a registered online pharmacy with a prescription from your vet. Over-the-counter products tend to be less effective and are not suitable for every cat.

A woman in a green Woodgreen jacket uses a scanner on a black and white cat lying on a towel, likely checking its microchip. She wears blue gloves and works in a brightly lit room.

A cat receiving flea treatment at Woodgreen Pets Charity

Annual health checks

An annual health check is recommended for every cat. This gives your vet the chance to examine areas you cannot easily check yourself, such as your cat’s mouth, abdomen, heart, and lungs. Catching a problem early often means it’s easier and cheaper to treat.

 

Recognising signs of illness

Cats are good at hiding pain and discomfort, so it is worth watching for subtle changes:

  • Changes in appetite, thirst, or weight.
  • Reduced grooming or a scruffy-looking coat.
  • Changes to toileting habits, such as straining or going more frequently.
  • Lack of energy, hiding, or reduced interest in play.

If you notice any of these signs, book a vet appointment first rather than waiting to see if they pass.

 

Some cat breeds are more prone to health issues

Pedigree cats, particularly flat-faced breeds like the Persian and British Shorthair can be more prone to certain genetic health conditions due to selective breeding. If you’re considering a pedigree cat, research the breed’s common health issues and ask the breeder about health testing.

Three things you can do today

Register with a vet

If you don’t have a vet already, register now so you are ready for vaccinations, health checks, or any unexpected illness.

Check your cat’s vaccination record

Look at when your cat’s last booster was given and book them in if one is due or overdue.

Review your flea and worm treatment plan

Speak to your vet about a tailored parasite treatment plan rather than relying on over-the-counter products.

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