What to test for at the vet for adopted kitty

lovemycats74

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I am planning to adopt a cat this weekend from a high kill shelter. I know a lot of these cats are sick and receive no medical treatment. I am planning to take the cat to the vet for tests. What kind of tests should I ask for? I know I will have them test for leukemia and FIV and worms. Anything else I should test for? TIA.
 

GoldyCat

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First of all, congratulations on your future kitty!


You've covered the main things that need to be tested. Make sure the vet also checks the teeth and looks for ear mites and fleas. Get as much information from the shelter as you can. Ask about current shots, deworming, flea treatment, etc. Also find out what kind of food kitty has been eating so you can make a slow transition to something better. The shelter may not know much, but they'll tell you what they can.
 

stephanietx

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Ear mites, fleas, parasites (giardia, worms, coccidia), along with all the other stuff.
 

momofmany

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Don't bother with an FIV or FIP test. If the cat you adopted had been vaccinated for FIV, they will show a false positive. And FIP tests are a complete waste of money.

Have a general physical, FeLV test and internal parasites. If you can bring a stool sample with you on the day of the appointment, that will help.

Thank you for adopting from a high kill shelter!
 

iheartstrays

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Worms, parasites, ear mites and respiratory issues are the biggest culprits in shelter settings. Test for these and you'll be pretty well covered.

Congratulations on your new little one! We want pics when you bring him home!!!
 
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