Vaccines, microchip and papers: what you receive when you adopt

A kitten from a serious cattery does not leave before 12–13 weeks. This is not a whim: at that age it has completed its first vaccinations, is fully weaned and has learned from its mother and littermates how to behave like a cat.

Vaccinations

The kitten receives two doses of the core vaccine (panleukopenia, herpesvirus and calicivirus): the first at around 8–9 weeks and the booster 3–4 weeks later. Your vet will tell you when to give the annual booster and whether the feline leukaemia vaccine is needed, as it is recommended for cats that go outdoors.

Worming and health checks

Before leaving, the kitten is wormed several times, treated against external parasites and examined by the vet, who certifies its good health.

Microchip and passport

The kitten leaves the cattery already microchipped and registered. The microchip is also needed for the European pet passport, which together with the rabies vaccine is required for travel abroad.

The papers you receive

Health booklet or passport with the vaccinations, registration certificate, pedigree issued by the federation, signed sale contract and a sheet with diet and habits. The pedigree usually arrives a few weeks later: we post it or hand it over as soon as it is ready.

Pet or breeding

Pet kittens are sold with an agreement to neuter them at the age your vet recommends. Breeding kittens are only sold to recognised catteries, with a dedicated contract.