Our puppy and kitten wellness program consists of
THREE EXAMS
occurring three to four weeks apart to establish your new pet’s care. At McGehee Clinic for Animals, we want to help set the stage for your pet to live a long and healthy life by your side. Your veterinarian will examine your pet, begin their initial vaccinations, and ensure they are growing and developing properly.
Call McGehee Clinic for Animals to make your puppy or kitten’s first appointment with us today!
Puppy Care
Kitten Care
First Exams/Vaccines
Essential Puppy and Kitten Care in Memphis, TN
If you’ve recently added a new furry friend to your family, congratulations! Our team at McGehee Clinic for Animals can’t wait to meet your puppy or kitten and provide the necessary care to ensure they thrive in their new life with you.
Exam One
We typically see pets for the initial exam when they are about 8 weeks of age. However, if your pet is under 1 year of age, this will be considered their “first” appointment. Your veterinarian will check their growth to ensure they are on the right track as well as administer puppy and kitten shots:
Kittens:
- FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotrachetitis, Calici virus, Panleukopenia) #1
- Deworming #1
Puppies:
- DA2PP (Distemper, Adenovirus, Parvovirus and Parainfluenza)
- Deworming
Exam Two
The second exam is at about 12 weeks of age and will allow your veterinarian to assess your pet’s growth since exam one and administer their second round of vaccinations:
Kittens:
- FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotrachetitis, Calici virus, Panleukopenia)
- Deworming
Puppies:
- DA2PP (Distemper, Adenovirus, Parvovirus and Parainfluenza)
- Leptospirosis
- Bordetella
- Final Deworming
Exam Three
When your pet is about 16 weeks old, exam three provides an opportunity for your veterinarian to evaluate their growth and overall well-being, discuss what to expect as your puppy or kitten grows into an adult, and conclude their initial series of kitten and puppy shots.
Kittens:
- FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotrachetitis, Calici virus, Panleukopenia)
- FeLV (Feline Leukemia Virus)
- Rabies
Puppies:
- DA2PP (Distemper, Adenovirus, Parvovirus and Parainfluenza)
- Leptospirosis
- Bordetella
- Rabies
Spaying or Neutering Your Pet
Your veterinarian can provide a personalized recommendation as to when your pet should be spayed or neutered during the third of your pet’s initial series of exams. This usually depends on your dog or cat’s age and breed.
How do I potty train my puppy?
HOW DO I SET A POTTY TRAINING SCHEDULE?
- First thing in the morning
- Last thing at night
- After spending time in a crate
- Upon waking up from a nap
- After eating or drinking
- Time between potty breaks
should be no more than 2-4 hours
HOW DO I CRATE TRAIN MY PUPPY?
- Dogs like clean “home” areas and are less likely to have accidents
- Place crate near exterior door for quick relief
- The crate should be big enough for your puppy to stand up, turn around, and lay down
WHEN SHOULD I REINFORCE GOOD BEHAVIOR?
- Don’t scold your puppy for having an accident
- Praise them for doing the right thing
- Reward them with treats, pats, and attention
How do I get my puppy to stop bad behavior?
WHAT CAN MY PUPPY CHEW ON?
- Chewing is a calming mechanism for puppies
- Keep chewing toys around the house; when they start to chew on toys instead of household objects, give them praise
HOW DO I STOP MY PUPPY FROM BARKING?
- Scolding your puppy when they bark can make it worse; instead, ignore barking and praise quiet
- Training your dog to sit helps them fight impulsive barking when they want something
HOW DO I STOP MY PUPPY FROM BEGGING AT THE TABLE?
- Feed them first before you eat
- Create a cozy “go-to” spot near the table where they can be comfortable
- Praise them with treats when they don’t beg
How do I feed my puppy?
HOW OFTEN DO I FEED MY PUPPY?
- 6-12 weeks: 4x a day
- 3-6 months: 3x a day
- 6-12 months: 2x a day
- After a year: 2 half portions a day
- Watch your puppy to gauge if they are eating healthy
WHAT FOOD SHOULD I FEED MY PUPPY?
- Look for AAFCO guidelines
- Look for age and health specific formulas
- Ask your vet for tailored recommendations
WHAT ARE HARMFUL FOODS FOR PUPPIES?
Dairy, chocolate, grapes, and sugary foods, snacks, or desserts
What do I need to do to prepare for a kitten?
WHAT THINGS SHOULD I BUY FOR A KITTEN?
- Scratch posts (helps preserve furniture!)
- Litter boxes, cat carriers, and food and water bowls
- Stain and odor remover
WHAT SHOULD I MOVE OUT OF THE WAY?
- Toxic plants
- Cleaners and sprays
- Any dog food that might be in the house
HOW CAN MY CAT BE COMFORTABLE?
- Bed and blanket
- Small, cozy space
- Grooming supplies
- Pheromone products
How should I play with my kitten?
HOW DO I PLAY SAFELY WITH MY KITTEN?
- Use balls, jingles, anything on a string, and cotton chew toys
- Avoid “play” with your hands to avoid injury when full grown
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF PLAYING WITH YOUR KITTEN?
- Strengthens your bond with your kitten
- Allows them to release energy that could lead to damage
- Builds trust and comfort for them within a new home
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I PLAY WITH MY KITTEN?
- 20+ minutes of play per day
- Set aside at least two times a day preferably early in the morning and late at night
How do I feed a kitten?
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I FEED MY KITTEN?
- Dry food only: leave available at all times
- Wet food only: feed at least four times a day
- Combo: feed wet food twice a day and leave dry food available
WHAT SHOULD I FEED MY KITTEN?
- Look for AAFCO guidelines
- Look for age and health specific formulas
- Ask your vet for tailored recommendations
WHAT ARE HARMFUL FOODS FOR KITTENS?
- Raw meats, eggs, raw fish
- Grapes, chocolate, and dairy
