I'm going to adopt a kitten that is a barn cat (when it's old enough to be weaned from Mama) I already plan on getting it to the vet ASAP for a check up. The vet told me it would need to be tested for feline leukemia, but shouldn't it have a rabies shot, too? What other kind of shots or tests will it need before I introduce it to my current cat?
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Barn cat to House cat
lisamarie01
Jun 22, 2003 08:55 PM
Replies (4)
PHMadameAlto
Jun 22, 2003 09:43 PM
Definitely the cat will need a rabies shot. Your vet probably didn't mention that because it is usually a given.
There are several types of blood tests that can be given to a cat to determine if it is a carrier of something. The downside is that the best test will take longer for results and cost more! Talk to your vet about all the possiblities and then you can decide what to do. Bear in mind that there may be some false positives and that you should have the cat retested if she/he tests positives in any area.
Thank you for adopting this little kitten! I hope it will bring you many years of joy. Let the vet be your guide as to vaccinations and tests!
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MunchieScrunchie
Jun 23, 2003 11:05 PM
>>I'm going to adopt a kitten that is a barn cat (when it's old enough to be weaned from Mama) I already plan on getting it to the vet ASAP for a check up. The vet told me it would need to be tested for feline leukemia, but shouldn't it have a rabies shot, too? What other kind of shots or tests will it need before I introduce it to my current cat?
Thanks for taking in this little one when it's ready. Definitely test for felv (leukemia) and fiv (feline aids). It will probably be given a rabies shot if required by law in your state. The kitten should also get an FVRCP shot (distemper combo). Watch for runny eyes, runny nose and dirty ears and do have a stool test run to check for worms and other intestinal parasites.
Good luck with your kitty.
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Dottie
PHCurious
Jun 26, 2003 01:18 AM
In addition to what the others have posted, your vet is probably going to give your new kitten a deworming medication, and possibly a flea and tick treatment.
You MAY have to repeat one of the tests later. Speak to your vet about this. On rare occasions, a kitten can test negative for something at an early age, but show a positive result within a few months. Some people wait until the cat is 6 months old to get all the tests done because of this. However, since you already have a cat in the house, I would get the new kitten tested for everything you can at first, and repeat only whichever test is necessary at a later date.
Thank you for adopting this kitten!! S/he's going to appreciate the comfort and love in your home.
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PHCurious
Cat Chat Host
JaimeMarie
Jul 27, 2003 01:34 PM
My bf's mom adopted a barn cat about 7 yrs ago. He is the best cat. Here is a picture of him. He is the orange and white one. Buddy.
