Choosing a vet
Choosing the right veterinarian is an important first step when you bring your new kitten home. Ask your breeder or friends to recommend the vet that's right for you and your new companion.
All licensed vets are trained in professional animal care, but like doctors, vets have different personalities and specialties. Consider what qualities and services you want in a vet. You may be drawn to one in particular because of the convenient location of the vet's clinic, the services he or she provides, or simply because you find your vet easy to talk to. Whatever the reason, your vet should be your partner in maintaining your cat's health.
Once you've decided on a vet, make an appointment for a first examination as well as inoculations and de-worming. Take your cat to the vet in a special cat carrier, available at pet stores. Get your cat used to this container as soon as possible. Keep it in your house, open, and put a blanket in it. Your cat may start to use the container as a cave and go inside it several times a day. At the clinic, the cat carrier will give your cat a feeling of security in the waiting room -- which will likely be full of other animals she might be afraid of.
Once you've established a relationship with your vet, you'll quickly see how having a vet and following his or her advice will help ensure that your cat lives a long and healthy life.