Your puppy or kitten's first year of life is critical to their health. Our veterinarians in Laguna Beach provide advice, guidance and high-quality care. 

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Puppy & Kitten Vet Care

It's a joyous day when you get to bring your new puppy or kitten home! This cuddly new family member will probably bring a smile to everyone they meet. 

As entertaining and momentous as this time may be, you'll also have some serious healthcare matters to attend to during your new pet's first year of life. 

Your veterinarian can develop a personalized healthcare plan to meet your pet's unique needs during their first year, and provide you with lots of support and guidance. 

Kitten & Puppy Vet Checkup, Laguna Beach Veterinarians

First Vet Appointment For Puppy or Kitten

Around the age of six weeks, puppies should come in for their first appointment with the veterinarian. Kittens should make their first visit around the age of eight weeks. 

Your vet can perform a complete physical examination during this first visit to check your pet's overall health, look for symptoms of congenital defects, and identify any external parasites. 

More About Physical Exams

Your puppy or kitten will also receive deworming medications for roundworm and hookworm from their vet at our animal hospital. The first round of vaccinations will also be administered. 

More About Vaccines & Prevention

Finally, a blood test will be done for kittens to check for feline leukemia and feline immunodeficiency virus. 

Follow-up Appointments

Between the ages of 6 and 16 weeks, a puppy or kitten should come in for 3 to 4 veterinary appointments. During these visits, our veterinarians can check your pet's overall health and administer vaccines on time.

Puppy & Kitten Info Packs

Along with your new bundle of fur, you'll be taking on a lot of new responsibilities with your puppy or kitten. 

Our team is here to provide guidance, support and helpful information to help you navigate your puppy or kitten's first year. 

Our information packs for kittens and puppies include everything you need to know about your pet's early development, including:

  • A vaccination and medical care schedule
  • Information on spaying and neutering your pet
  • Information on common medical problems such as heartworm disease, feline leukemia, and zoonosis
  • Tips for how to socialize your puppy or kitten with animals and people, including pets, already living in your home
  • Basic puppy training guidelines
  • Nutrition information

Our veterinarians will gladly answer any questions you may have and allay any fears or concerns you may have. We want to make sure you and your puppy or kitten have everything you'll need to start a happy life together!

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