A Guide to Your New Puppy or Kitten: Health, Training, and Tips for 2025 - Del Mar Heights Veterinary Hospital

A Guide to Your New Puppy or Kitten: Health, Training, and Tips for 2025

The new year often inspires us to make positive changes, and for some, that might mean adding a new furry friend to the family. Whether you’ve just welcomed a playful puppy or a curious kitten, there’s a lot to learn in these first few months together.

Here’s a quick guide from our veterinary team to help you and your new pet start the year off on the right paw!

1. First Things First: The Initial Vet Visit – Just like newborns, puppies, and kittens need a complete health check soon after arriving at their new home. Your first vet visit will typically cover :

• A comprehensive physical exam: We’ll assess your pet’s overall health and check for any initial signs of concern.
• Vaccinations: Puppies and kittens need a series of vaccines to protect them from diseases like parvovirus and distemper in dogs and panleukopenia in cats. Your vet will create a vaccination schedule tailored to their needs.
• Parasite prevention: Puppies and kittens are prone to parasites like fleas, ticks, and intestinal worms. Starting parasite prevention early keeps them comfortable and healthy.
• Microchipping: A microchip helps reunite you with your pet if they ever get lost. We recommend microchipping during one of their initial visits for an extra layer of security.

2. Nutrition Matters: Feeding Your Puppy or Kitten –  Young pets have different nutritional needs than adults, so choosing the right food is crucial. Here’s what you should know:

• Age-appropriate food: Look for food labeled specifically for puppies or kittens, formulated to support growth and development.
• Portion control: Puppies and kittens have small stomachs, so they must be fed several small meals throughout the day.
• Avoid “people food”: Many human foods can be toxic to pets. Stick to a diet of high-quality pet food and consult your vet about any treats or supplements.

Your veterinarian can help you select a brand and feeding schedule that suits your pet’s age, breed, and activity level.

3. Training Tips: Building Good Habits Early –  Puppies and kittens are at an ideal age to start learning good behaviors. Here are some training tips:

• Consistency is key: Establish a routine that includes regular feeding, bathroom breaks, and playtime.
• Reward positive behaviors: Use treats or affection to reinforce good behaviors, whether using the litter box or sitting on command.
• Socialization: Gradually expose your pet to new environments, people, and other animals. Supervised playtime with other vaccinated dogs can build confidence for puppies, while kittens benefit from gentle handling and exposure to new sights and sounds.

Early training sets the foundation for a well-adjusted, happy adult pet.

4. Pet-Proofing Your Home – Like baby-proofing, creating a safe space for your new pet is essential. Here’s a quick checklist:

• Remove hazards: Keep small items, electrical cords, and toxic household plants out of reach.
• Secure trash cans: Many puppies and kittens are curious and may be tempted to rummage through the garbage.
• Create a safe space: Set up a cozy area with a bed, toys, food, and water bowls where your pet can feel secure.

Pet-proofing your home helps prevent accidents and keeps your furry friends safe as they explore.

5. The Importance of Routine Checkups – While puppies and kittens require frequent vet visits initially, maintaining annual checkups is key to long-term health. During each visit, we’ll monitor:

• Growth and development: Ensuring your pet is on track for age and breed.
• Dental health: Dental care starts early! We’ll help you establish a brushing routine and provide tips for healthy teeth.
• Behavioral development: Our team can assist with training challenges and suggest resources or trainers if needed.

6. A New Year of Love and Companionship –  A new pet brings so much joy to a household. This special bond you’re creating is just the beginning of a wonderful relationship, from playtime to cuddle sessions.

If you have questions or concerns, remember that our veterinary team is here to help guide you. This New Year, let’s make every moment with your new pet safe, happy, and healthy!
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Ready to start your journey as a new pet parent? Schedule your pet’s first veterinary visit today! Our team is excited to support you and your new friend as you embark on this adventure together.