A veterinary technician explains, “a healthy kitten should have a shiny coat, bright eyes, and clean ears. Their nose should be moist, and their gums should be pink. ”. Any signs of discharge from the eyes or nose, a dull coat, or redness in the ears could indicate a health issue that needs to be addressed. Estimated reading time 10 minutes. In this article we answer some of the most common questions about looking after a new kitten. When should i treat my kitten for fleas? When should i worm my kitten? Should my kitten be neutered? When can i microchip my kitten? One of the biggest downsides to adopting a kitten on craigslist from someone or somewhere that isn’t a rescue organization is that the kitten’s health isn’t always properly taken into consideration. This isn’t necessarily out of malicious intent, it’s more so done out of ignorance. Ask for veterinary records or proof of recent veterinary visits. Meeting the pet in person: Always meet the pet in person before making a decision. This helps assess the pet’s health, temperament, and living conditions. The 7 common kitten health issues. Kittens are predisposed to gastrointestinal parasites because their immune system is weak and still developing. They pick them up. It is not only an important part of preventative health care in its broadest sense but also an essential part of the professional advice that should be given in feline medicine cases where the social and physical environment is impacting the cat’s physical as. Understanding your cat’s health care needs during their first year is crucial for building a solid foundation for a lifetime of health and happiness. We explain the essential components of your kitten’s care, including first wellness visits, vaccinations, parasite prevention, spaying and neutering, and ongoing care. The best bet to ensure healthiness is to take your kitten to the vet before even bringing it home. At the shelter, though, you can take some steps to make sure you're getting a healthy kitten, including checking the kitten's face, body, and behavior. Studies show that good preventive care is the key to disease prevention and early detection of health issues. Committing to a comprehensive yet customized wellness plan for your kitten or cat will keep them purring and playful for many years to come.