When you adopt a new sick kitten into your family, you make a new best friend that provides endless unconditional love. But sadly, sometimes kittens get sick and can fall ill without you catching it in time.
You want the best care for your kitten. But you may feel overwhelmed and clueless about what you should do. Don’t worry, we’ve got you.
Listed below are things you can do to take care of your sick kitten, so read on.
Understand Different Kitten Illnesses
Kittens are delicate creatures and need proper care for them to stay healthy. Unfortunately, they are often subject to many of the same illnesses that afflict adult cats.
You need to research cat illnesses so that you can recognize the signs before they get worse. Common illnesses of kittens are respiratory infections, intestinal parasites, and ringworm.
Upper respiratory infections come from viruses and bacteria. Intestinal parasites such as roundworms cause severe discomfort and can be fatal if left untreated. And ringworm is a fungal infection that is transmissible to humans and can spread through skin-to-skin contact.
Kittens may also experience other, less common kitten diseases. Your kitten may suffer from feline infectious retinitis, feline immunodeficiency virus, and panleukopenia.
Schedule a Veterinary Appointment
If your kitten is showing signs of illness, such as lethargy, vomiting, or diarrhea, it is important to visit the veterinarian as soon as possible. Taking your kitten to the vet will allow your pet to receive a proper diagnosis of their underlying illness or condition. They can also provide the necessary treatment plan that your pet needs.
To prepare for the vet appointment, make sure to provide your kitten with a comfortable carrier. This will reduce stress and make the experience easier for both you and your kitten.
Additionally, bring a fecal sample or other diagnostic evidence with you to the kitten vet visit. Take note of any changes in behavior since symptom onset, which you can provide to your vet for further insight.
Follow the Vet’s Instructions
Depending on the severity of the illness, the vet may provide thorough instructions. Make sure to carefully follow those instructions as neglecting them can worsen the kitten’s health.
Feed and Hydrate Them
Proper feeding and hydration are essential for the care and recovery of a sick cat. Begin by offering the kitten small meals several times a day.
It is best to use manufactured wet or dry cat food of a high quality. Avoid large chunks, as the tiny kitten may have difficulty chewing it.
Water should be accessible at all times, and you should change it several times a day. You should also keep the water should at room temperature.
If your kitten is showing no signs of dehydration, you can also offer her milk, although if she isn’t drinking it willingly, stop giving it to them. If it appears your kitten is dehydrated, they may need additional hydration. You can use a syringe to hydrate them or you can turn to subcutaneous fluid under a vet’s supervision.
It is important to avoid forcing them to drink too much. This could lead to vomiting or diarrhea.
Administer Medications When Necessary
When administering medication to your sick cat, be sure that the medication is the correct type for that specific kitten. Administer the medication as directed by a veterinarian. Wear appropriate protective clothing while handling the medication and the kitten.
Start by calming the kitten in a gentle, comforting manner. Then, prepare the medication following the directions provided with the medication. Properly measure the dosage of the medicine.
Once the medication is ready, using a syringe or dropper, carefully deliver the dosage into your pet’s mouth. Monitor them afterward to make sure they do not have any unexpected reactions or side effects to the medication. Adjust medication dosages as necessary.
Create a Comfortable Environment at Home
If you bring home a sick cat, the best form of kitten care you can do is to create a comfortable environment at home. Ensure that their environment is quiet, warm, and stress-free.
Start by making sure your sick cat has a clean, cozy sleep location and a safe area to hide and shelter themselves away from other pets or people. Provide toys that can be stimulated and eliminate all possible stress factors, such as excessive noise.
Make sure that your kitten is in a confined area so they can have quiet and comfort while sick. Keep room temperatures at a comfortable level, as cats can easily overheat or chill.
Practice Proper Hygiene
Start by washing your hands immediately before and after you interact with the kitten, toys, bedding, or food bowls. Avoid wearing the same unwashed clothing when you take care of the kitten. If possible, wear gloves to further protect yourself.
Place the kitten in a separate room from your other pets to limit the spread of disease. Immediately discard or wash and disinfect any bedding or toys that the kitten comes in contact with.
Vacuum the living area to remove residual fecal, urine, and hair contaminants. Gently wash your cat with a mild, pet-friendly soap and a damp cloth.
Use a separate damp cloth for the head, face, and eyes, as rubbing may cause discomfort and irritation. Remove matting and tangles in their fur with a gently bristled brush.
Keeping your furry friend in a clean and comfortable environment will ensure a fast recovery. They will surely be back to optimum kitten health in no time.
Get Pet Insurance for the Future (If You Don’t Already Have One)
Taking care of a sick pet can be emotionally and financially taxing. So, although it can be difficult to put a price on the health care of our beloved pets, getting pet insurance can make it easier for you to ensure they get the best medical care in the future.
Pet insurance can cover accidents, illness, and routine checkups and can be tailored to fit the treatment needs of your kitten. Just check out this article on Money.com, and you’ll find the best pet insurance for your kitten.
Take Care of Your Sick Kitten With Our Guide
Taking care of a sick kitten is no easy feat.
You need to set up a quiet, comfortable area for your kitten. You need to make sure they get plenty of fluids and nutrition. And you need to stay on top of their medical care.
These processes require patience and dedication. But if you take care of them properly, your kitten will be back in good health in no time!
Did you find this article helpful? If so, check out the rest of our site for more.
Read Next: Name for software company