Hi, I just joined the forum a few weeks ago and am awaiting the arrival of our new addition. He is currently 9 weeks old and still with the breeder. We plan to pick him up when he is 13 weeks old. We heard from the breeder today that some of the kittens in the litter developed sneezing, coughing etc but my boy also has an eye infection. They are being treated with antibiotics . I am sure she will have him well by the time he comes home. If not she will keep him until he is.

I suspect that as he is on antibiotics it is a respiratory infection along with an eye infection. When reading up on URI's in kittens that are from multi cat homes and/or catteries this is common and the kitten can have the virus lifelong which could potentially flare up in the future with stress. He could also spread the virus to other cats (we only plan on having one).

Has anyone had a kitten known to have a URI or other infection prior to bringing him/her home and has it been an issue as the kitten got older? While our plan is to keep him safe in his new home (I am at home all day) the fact is as you can all attest, that there will always be stress of one type or another whether it is just getting accustomed to us or going outside, going to the Vet, going on vacation etc.

Any thoughts/comments or personal experiences would be most appreciated.

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The little monsters 3

Thanks for that. The breeder will not let him go until he is well and off meds. I have insurance planned and appointment made with vet straight from picking him up. Breeder has guarantees if something more serious. I understand that the probability of some type of illness early in a kitten's life is common. Just wasn't sure how it would affect them long term. Thanjs for letting me know what you have experienced. Just want him to have a good start.

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I am so disappointed - it turns out he has the herpes virus and continues to have an eye infection. He hasn't really been free of it since he got it so we have decided to not take this kitten. We are now looking for another one which we will hopefully find before the cooler weather arrives. One good Thing has come out of this though, we have everything in place for our new arrival whenever that might be!

I am sorry to hear this but also glad you are being responsible in not taking on something you aren't ready for. The right kitty will come along soon enough.

Will you go back to the same breeder, who also sounds very responsible, or seek out one that does not house HV in her stable?

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~ Kyenta

Did not go back to the same breeder as all of her kitties were sick. We have found a new boy and he is healthy - will be picking him up next weekend!