Welcoming a new puppy or kitten into your home is exciting.
Along with all the cuddles and playtime, it’s important to focus on setting the foundation for a lifetime of good health. The first year of a pet’s life is critical for growth, development, and establishing healthy habits. At easyvet Frisco, we can provide comprehensive veterinary care for puppies and kittens in Frisco, TX and our surrounding communities.
Preventive Care in Your Pet’s First Year
The first year of a puppy or kitten’s life is filled with rapid growth and development, which is why preventive care makes a big impact. With regular physical exams, our veterinarians can monitor your pet’s growth and check for any signs of illness. During these exams, our veterinary team will assess everything from your pet’s weight to their overall body condition.
Apart from puppy or kitten veterinary exams, your young companion will need other preventative treatments. Vaccinations start as early as 6-8 weeks of age, with boosters given every few weeks until they’re about 16-18 weeks old. Microchipping is a simple procedure that will leave your four-legged friend with a permanent form of identification that can help reunite you with your pet if they ever get lost.
As your pet approaches the right age, neutering becomes an important part of their health plan. This procedure not only prevents unwanted litters but also reduces the risk of certain health issues and can positively impact behavior.
Parasites are a common concern for puppies and kittens.
Many young pets are actually born with intestinal parasites, which is why several rounds of deworming treatments are typically recommended during their first few months of life. Even if parasites aren’t immediately visible, deworming eliminates any that may be hiding in the digestive system.
Fecal testing is a tool for identifying parasites. This test detects microscopic eggs and larvae that could be missed during routine exams. While fecal tests are critical in the first year, they should continue annually as part of your pet’s ongoing preventive care.
Once your pet reaches the appropriate age and weight, they will start on parasite preventatives to protect against threats like heartworms, fleas, ticks, and intestinal parasites. These preventatives should be given to your companion year-round, as parasites can be a risk even in colder months. Left untreated, parasites can cause serious health issues, including anemia, malnutrition, digestive problems, and even life-threatening conditions in severe cases.
Things to Consider as Your Pet Grows
As your puppy or kitten grows, their needs will change—and staying on top of these changes can make a world of difference. One of the first things to consider is nutrition. Our veterinarians can guide you on when to transition to adult food and recommend appropriate choices. Dental care is another important aspect of long-term health. Establishing a dental routine with gentle tooth brushing while your pet is young makes it easier for them to get comfortable with the process, reducing stress and simplifying future dental cleanings.
Throughout your pet’s growth, don’t hesitate to discuss any questions about diet, socialization, at-home care, or health concerns. We want to support you as a responsible pet owner.
Set the foundation with puppy and kitten care in Frisco, TX.
Your new pet deserves a happy start in life. easyvet Frisco is committed to providing local care and support for your growing pet’s needs. Schedule an appointment online for your puppy or kitten’s first visit! We welcome new clients and accept walk-ins. If your new pet is sick or injured, we appreciate a call in advance of a walk-in visit.
easyvet Frisco provides veterinary care for puppies and kittens in Frisco, The Colony, Starwood, Stonebriar-Westin, Hackberry, Little Elm, Preston Ridge, and nearby Texas areas.
