We recently adopted a 9 week old kitten. We took her to the vet who confirmed she is dewormed, and that she is due for more shots 4 weeks from the date of her last shots.
We also have a 7 y/o cat who is up to date on shots as of a few weeks ago.
We have the kitten staying in her own spare bathroom for the time being, but we would like to start the slow introduction process as soon as safely possible.
Would we be putting the older cat at any risk if we were to **not wait until getting the kitten the rest of her shots?
Hoping there’s something vet professionals here who could offer some advice. Cheers!
It seems like it would be fine to go ahead and start the slow introduction, but I am not a veterinarian so I don’t know what effect that would have on either of them.
Perhaps you could call your vet and ask them about it. The office people at my vet have given me great advice over the phone without having to make an appointment.
I’d be more concerned about the older cat passing something to the younger cat. But if the older one is up to date on shots, indoor only and not FIV positive, the risk is minimal.
I definitely would. You can never be too careful. Cats can just die suddenly over things you didn’t even think about.
it appears that the kitten is partially vaccinated? i assume at the initial vaccination they tested for the major diseases that affect cats and it came back negative, so introduction is likely fine. i am not a vet, but i have done this multiple times in my households and have felt comfortable after the first round of vaccines since my other cats are all up-to-date and have a flea/tick regimen.
initial introduction should be super slow anyway. unless both cats are chill, they shouldn’t be too close to one another for extended periods and without supervision.
My main concern would be things not necessarily vaccinated for, like ear mites.
