Puppy & Kitten Health Checks Explained: What Happens During These Important First Appointments
Quick Answer: Puppy and kitten health checks are important first vet appointments where we examine your pet from nose to tail, discuss vaccinations, parasite prevention, feeding, behaviour and routine care, and answer your questions. At Manor Vets, these visits help local pet owners in Chatham, Medway and Kent give young pets a healthy, confident start.
Introduction
Bringing home a new puppy or kitten is exciting, but it also comes with plenty of questions. Many local pet owners ask us what actually happens at a first veterinary appointment, when they should book it, and whether their pet really needs one if they seem well.
The short answer is yes. Early health checks help us spot any developing concerns, guide you through preventative care, and make your new pet’s first experience at the vet as calm and positive as possible. At Manor Vets, we regularly help new owners across Chatham, Medway and Kent feel more confident about those early weeks.
If you have recently welcomed a puppy or kitten, you can arrange one of our Free Puppy & Kitten Health Checks or book an appointment online at a time that suits you.
Why early puppy and kitten health checks matter
Young pets grow and change very quickly. A health check is not just about looking for illness. It is also a chance to make sure development is on track, talk through everyday care, and put a sensible plan in place for vaccinations, parasite control, nutrition and socialisation.
Our veterinary team often advises owners that these first visits are some of the most useful appointments in a pet’s life. They help build a strong foundation for long-term wellbeing and support the kind of preventative healthcare that can make a real difference over time.
As an RCVS Accredited Practice, we are committed to high standards of care and practical advice for pet owners throughout Medway and Kent.
What happens during a puppy or kitten health check?
A first health check is usually gentle, thorough and tailored to your pet’s age, breed and background. At Manor Vets we regularly help puppies and kittens settle into the practice environment, so we take care to keep the visit as relaxed as possible.
1. A full physical examination
We begin with a nose-to-tail check. This usually includes:
- Weight and general body condition
- Eyes, ears and mouth
- Heart and lungs
- Skin and coat
- Tummy and digestion
- Movement, posture and joints
- Checking for hernias or other visible abnormalities
- For male pets, checking whether both testicles have descended when appropriate for age
This gives us a clear picture of your pet’s overall health and helps us pick up anything that may need monitoring or further advice.
2. Discussing vaccinations
Vaccinations are a key part of protecting puppies and kittens from serious infectious diseases. During the appointment, we will explain what vaccines are recommended, when they are due, and when your pet can safely start going out and socialising, depending on their vaccine course.
You can find out more about kitten and puppy vaccinations if you would like to plan ahead.
3. Flea, worm and parasite advice
Young pets are particularly vulnerable to worms and other parasites. We will talk through appropriate prevention based on your pet’s age, size and lifestyle. This is also a good time to ask about common concerns such as fleas in the home, roundworms, tapeworms and ear mites.
4. Feeding and growth guidance
Feeding advice can be confusing, especially with so many diets available. Our experienced veterinary team regularly helps owners choose suitable feeding routines for growing pets. We can advise on portion sizes, body condition, changing food gradually, and what a healthy rate of growth looks like.
If your puppy or kitten seems too thin, too round, has a sensitive stomach, or is a fussy eater, this is worth mentioning during the check.
5. Behaviour and settling in
First appointments are also about behaviour, confidence and routine. We commonly discuss:
- Toilet training for puppies
- Biting and chewing
- Sleep routines
- Crate or carrier training
- Scratching, climbing and litter tray habits in kittens
- Safe socialisation and handling
Many local pet owners are relieved to hear that a lot of early behaviour concerns are normal and manageable with the right support.
6. Microchipping, neutering and future planning
We will also discuss practical next steps such as microchipping, neutering, future health checks and routine wellness planning. Some owners also ask about pet insurance, expected costs and the benefits of regular care plans. Our Little VIP plans can be a helpful option for young pets, and we also offer 5 weeks free pet insurance for added peace of mind where applicable.
How should I prepare for the appointment?
A little preparation can make the visit easier for both you and your pet.
- Bring any paperwork from the breeder, rescue or previous vet
- Bring details of any vaccinations or worming already given
- Use a secure carrier for kittens and a lead or secure crate for puppies
- Take a note of any questions you want to ask
- Bring a small sample of their current food if you are unsure what they are eating
If you are not yet registered with us, you can register your pet with Manor Vets before your visit.
What We Commonly See at Manor Vets
In our experience supporting pets across Chatham, Medway and Kent, first appointments are often less about illness and more about reassurance.
One of the most common concerns we hear is, “My puppy or kitten seems fine, so do they still need a check?” In most cases, yes. Early issues are not always obvious at home, and many important topics such as vaccinations, parasite control and feeding are best discussed before problems develop.
We regularly help owners who are unsure whether their young pet’s behaviour is normal. Play biting, chewing, nighttime wakefulness, zooming about the house, climbing curtains, scratching furniture and occasional tummy upsets are all common reasons for questions.
A common misunderstanding is that the first appointment is only for vaccinations. In reality, it is a broader health and advice visit that helps shape your pet’s care over the coming months.
At Manor Vets, we also commonly see owners who feel overwhelmed by conflicting advice from friends, breeders, social media or the internet. A proper veterinary health check gives you reliable guidance tailored to your individual pet, from a local veterinary team serving Chatham, Medway and the wider Kent area.
Practical advice for puppy and kitten owners
There are a few simple things that can help young pets get the best possible start:
- Book the first check early. Ideally, arrange it soon after bringing your pet home.
- Keep routines consistent. Regular feeding, sleep and toileting routines help young pets settle.
- Focus on prevention. Vaccinations, worming and flea control are easier than dealing with avoidable problems later.
- Handle gently and positively. Calm handling of paws, ears and mouth can help your pet become more comfortable with future care.
- Ask questions. No concern is too small when you are getting to know a new puppy or kitten.
Many owners also find it useful to explore our health checks and clinics and wider VIP plans for ongoing support.
If you need advice after your appointment, we may also be able to help through video consultations where appropriate.
When To Contact A Vet
While many early questions are routine, some symptoms should always be checked promptly. Contact a vet if your puppy or kitten is:
- Not eating or drinking
- Very quiet, weak or difficult to wake
- Vomiting repeatedly or has severe diarrhoea
- Coughing persistently
- Struggling to pass urine or faeces
- Showing signs of pain
- Developing a swollen tummy
- Breathing unusually fast or with effort
If your pet is struggling to breathe, has collapsed, is having a seizure, has eaten something toxic, or is in severe pain, contact a vet immediately.
For urgent help, please use our 24-hour emergency veterinary care service.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should a puppy or kitten have their first vet check?
Usually as soon as possible after coming home. Early checks help identify any concerns and make sure vaccinations and preventative care are on schedule.
What if my breeder or rescue already had them checked?
It is still a good idea to arrange your own appointment. This gives us a chance to review their health, discuss ongoing care and answer your questions as their new owner.
How long does the appointment usually take?
It varies, but first appointments are usually long enough for a full examination and a proper discussion about care, feeding, vaccinations and behaviour.
Will my puppy or kitten get vaccinations at the first visit?
Often yes, if they are old enough, well enough, and their vaccine history is suitable. We will advise based on your pet’s individual needs.
Are free puppy and kitten checks worth booking?
Yes. They are a valuable way to make sure your pet is examined early and that you receive clear advice on the right next steps for their health and development.
Disclaimer
This article is intended for general guidance only. If your pet is unwell, showing concerning symptoms, or you are unsure what to do, please contact your vet for professional advice.
Book Your Puppy or Kitten’s First Health Check
If you have a new arrival at home, our team at Manor Vets is here to help. We support local pet owners across Chatham, Medway and Kent with friendly, practical care from the earliest weeks onwards.
You can arrange a free puppy or kitten health check, book an appointment online, or find your nearest Manor Vets location. If you are new to us, you can also register your pet and speak to our veterinary team about the best start for your new companion.
