Questions to Ask at Your Kitten's Vet Visits: A New Owner Checklist

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 20, 20264 min read

Vet visits can feel rushed, and it is easy to leave with half your questions unasked. A written list makes the most of the time, and helps you understand what your kitten needs. Use this checklist as a starting point. See kitten first vet visit for what happens during the exam.

Before you go

• Gather records from the shelter or breeder, including vaccines, deworming and any tests.
• Collect a fresh stool sample.
• Note appetite, litter use, energy and any concerns.
• Take a photo of what the kitten eats.
• Use a secure carrier. See kitten carrier and car rides.
• Write your questions.

Questions about health and prevention

• Is my kitten healthy? What did you find on the exam?
• What vaccines does my kitten need, and when? See kitten vaccine schedule and core shots.
• Should my kitten be tested for FeLV and FIV?
• What parasite prevention do you recommend, for fleas, worms and heartworm? See kitten deworming guide and kitten flea treatment.
• When should my kitten be spayed or neutered, and what will it cost? See when to spay or neuter a kitten.
• Should I microchip, and how do I register it? See kitten microchipping and id.
• Are there breed-specific health issues to watch for?

Questions about food

• What should I feed, and how much? See kitten feeding amounts by age.
• Wet, dry or both?
• When do I switch to adult food?
• Which treats are suitable?
• How do I avoid overweight?

Questions about behavior and training

• Is my kitten's behavior normal? Biting, scratching, night energy.
• How do I introduce my kitten to other pets? See how to introduce a new cat to your cat.
• How should I socialize? See how to socialize a kitten.
• Can you recommend a behaviorist or trainer if needed?

Questions about home and safety

• What should I kitten-proof? See kitten proofing your home.
• Which plants and products are dangerous? See cat poisoning: what to do.
• Is indoor or outdoor best? See indoor vs outdoor for kittens.

Questions about money

• What will it cost over the next year?
• Do you offer payment plans or wellness packages?
• Is pet insurance worth it? See cat pet insurance guide and kitten cost first year.
• Are there low-cost options if needed? See low cost vet care for cats.

Questions about emergencies

• What signs mean I should call? See cat emergency warning signs.
• How do I reach you after hours?
• Which emergency clinic do you recommend?
• What should be in my first aid kit? See cat first aid kit.

During the visit

• Take notes, or ask for a written summary.
• Ask the vet to explain anything unclear.
• Ask about side effects of vaccines and medicines.
• Ask what to do if you miss a dose.
• Confirm the next appointment.

Making visits easier

Bring treats and a favorite blanket. Stay calm. Praise your kitten, and ask the staff to give treats. Positive early visits make adult vet trips easier. See helping a cat who hates the vet.

Choosing a vet

Look for a clinic with good communication, cat-friendly handling and reasonable access. See how to find a good cat vet.

After the visit

Update your calendar, store records and watch your kitten for reactions. Call if anything seems off.

Questions to ask at follow-up visits

At each booster visit, ask how your kitten is growing, whether the weight is on track, what changes to expect in the next month and whether any tests are due. Ask about dental checks, behavior changes and diet adjustments. Keep a running list on your phone, and add questions whenever you think of them between visits. A short list at each appointment adds up to a well-informed owner and a healthy cat.

A printable mini-checklist

Carry this list on your phone: vaccines and dates, deworming and flea plan, diet and amounts, spay or neuter date, microchip, behavior concerns, emergency plan and costs. Tick off each as the vet covers it. If anything is missed, send a message after the visit, since many clinics are happy to answer follow-up questions by phone or email.

When to see a vet

Book the first visit within days of bringing your kitten home. Use the US vet directory to find a clinic.