New puppy or kitten: your first vet visit

The first vet visit should ideally happen in the first few days after you bring your new pet home, even if it looks healthy. It's your chance to start right: vaccines, parasites, diet and all your questions.

What to bring

• any papers you were given (health booklet, notes from the shelter or breeder)
• a small stool sample in a bag, to check for parasites
• the name of the food it eats
• your questions, written down on your phone
• treats, so it links the vet with something nice

Bring cats and small puppies in a closed carrier. Leave it open at home for a few days beforehand, with a blanket inside, so they get used to it.

What the vet will do

• a general check: heart, teeth, eyes, ears, skin, weight
• a vaccination plan and maybe the first dose
• internal and external parasite treatment
• microchipping and registration, if not already done

Questions worth asking

1. What food, and how many times a day?
2. When will vaccinations be complete, and when can it go out for walks?
3. What protection is needed against fleas, ticks and leishmaniasis?
4. What's the right age for neutering?
5. How do I teach it to be alone, toilet training, socialisation?
6. Which signs mean I should come in straight away?

Make it a good experience

A calm voice, treats and a little play in the waiting room. A pet that isn't afraid of the vet is easier to examine for the rest of its life.

On FindMyVet you can book a vet near you online and see check-up prices in advance. Create your pet's profile to get vaccination reminders.

Frequently asked questions

When should the first visit be?

In the first days in the new home, ideally within the first week.

When can a puppy go out for walks?

Usually after the core vaccination course is complete. Your vet will tell you when it’s safe for your puppy.

What food should I give?

Food for puppies or kittens, not adults. Start with what it was eating and change gradually if needed.