The first year sets the foundation for lifelong health. First visit by 6-8 weeks; vaccinations every 2-4 weeks until 16 weeks; socialization critical at 3-14 weeks (puppies) and 2-7 weeks (kittens).
Puppies and kittens should have their first veterinary visit by 6-8 weeks of age. A typical schedule: initial visit at 6-8 weeks, then every 2-4 weeks until 16 weeks for vaccinations and wellness checks. After the puppy/kitten series, a visit at 6 months and again at 1 year completes the first-year schedule. Sick visits and additional checks may be needed based on individual circumstances.
Core vaccines are administered in a series. For puppies: DAP at 6-8, 10-12, and 14-16 weeks; rabies at 12-16 weeks (per local law). For kittens: FVRCP at 6-8, 10-12, and 14-16 weeks; rabies at 12-16 weeks; FeLV for at-risk kittens. Non-core vaccines (Lepto, Lyme, Bordetella for dogs; FeLV for indoor-only adult cats) are based on lifestyle. Booster at 1 year completes the initial series.
Intestinal parasites are common in young animals. Puppies and kittens should be dewormed every 2 weeks from 2 weeks of age until 8-12 weeks, then monthly until 6 months. Common parasites include roundworms, hookworms, and in some areas, whipworms. Fecal flotation is recommended at least twice in the first year to check for parasites and to guide deworming. Heartworm prevention typically starts by 8 weeks of age in endemic areas.
Traditional recommendation: spay/neuter at 6 months. However, evidence supports individualization. Large-breed dogs may benefit from delayed neutering (12-24 months) to allow growth plate closure and reduce orthopedic disease risk. Small-breed dogs and cats may be spayed/neutered at 5-6 months. Discuss the risks and benefits with your veterinarian based on breed, size, and lifestyle.
The critical socialization period for puppies is approximately 3-14 weeks; for kittens, 2-7 weeks. During this time, positive exposure to people, other animals, environments, and handling shapes future behavior. Puppy and kitten socialization classes, gentle handling, and varied experiences (within safety limits) build confidence. Miss this window, and fearfulness or reactivity may develop. Balance socialization with disease risk: avoid dog parks and high-risk areas until vaccination is complete, but do not isolate—controlled exposure is key.
Puppies and kittens need diets formulated for growth. Transition from the breeder's or shelter's food gradually over 7-10 days to avoid gastrointestinal upset. Feed according to growth curves; overfeeding leads to obesity and orthopedic issues in large breeds. Switch to adult food when growth is complete: around 12 months for most dogs and cats, later for giant breeds. Use a calorie calculator to ensure appropriate intake during growth.
The General Vet AI guides you through every milestone, and the Calorie (RER) Calculator helps calculate proper nutrition for growing puppies and kittens.
- First visit by 6-8 weeks; vaccinations every 2-4 weeks until 16 weeks.
- Deworming—every 2 weeks until 8-12 weeks, then monthly until 6 months.
- Spay/neuter—individualize; large breeds may benefit from 12-24 month delay.
- Socialization—puppies 3-14 weeks, kittens 2-7 weeks; controlled exposure is key.
- Nutrition—gradual transition; feed for growth; switch to adult at ~12 months.