Kitten First Aid
Dr Arnold Plotnick MS, DVM, ACVIM
www.manhattancats.com
www.manhattancats.com
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Most kittens endure kittenhood relatively unscathed. A few, however,
deplete several of their nine lives in
the course of growing up. Knowing the principles of first aid can be
invaluable in seeing that your kitten
survives that turbulent first year of
life.
First aid is an interim measure before veterinary care becomes available. The objective of first aid is to
prevent the condition from worsening, alleviate pain and suffering, and
help the recovery process. Getting
veterinary help remains the highest
priority.
The best way to treat emergencies
is to prevent them. This is accomplished by “kittenproofing” your
home. Kittens get into everything
– closets, drawers, garbage cans,
toilets, boxes, bags, sofa cushions,
and more. If you have children, go
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Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014
through your home and pick up all
toys less than two inches in length.
Also pick up any coins, paper clips,
rubber bands, ribbons, string, tape,
and other small objects a curious kitten might swallow.
The most common disasters that
strike kittens are burns, electric cord
injury, choking, bee stings, fractures,
and poisonings.
Keep cleaning supplies and chemicals
locked away. Be mindful of electric
cords, as kittens enjoy chewing on
them, risking electrocution. Household plants (fresh and dried) can be
toxic. Make certain that your windows are always closed, or are fitted
with sturdy screens. Kittens seek
out high places, and an open window
ledge can spell disaster in the form
of “high-rise syndrome”.
Most kitten burns are thermal
burns from hot objects like heating pads, heat lamps, or scalding by
hot liquids. Kittens may jump onto
stovetops and burn their feet or tail.
The few hours it takes to kittenproof
your home may be the best investment in your kitten’s future.
Despite our best precautions, we
may find ourselves facing a kitten
health emergency.
Burns
If your kitten experiences a burn,
immediately apply a cool damp towel
to the area for 30 minutes. Cover
with a loose bandage and take to a
veterinarian. Do not put ice directly
on the area, and avoid ointments, as
they are difficult to remove.
Electric shock
Kittens are most likely to chew
or bite an electric cord because a