Lucy's recent trip to the vet for a booster and stool labs was very informative. I was surprised to see our long ago vet was going to examine Lucy. He's an older fellow that looks like Dr. Marcus Welby from the old TV series in the states. First thing he asked me was if I was sure about her birth date, as she is pretty small for her age (2.24 pounds at ten and a half weeks). My immediate response was "I hope its correct, the folks on the forum are already beating me up cause the breeder left her go at 8 weeks, LOL!
Anyway, I am relieved to tell you she is in excellent health, she did put on a pound in 2 weeks, her eye is clear (no more drainage, or drops!), a second vet saying there is no murmur, and the labs just came back saying she is parasite free.
I have to take her back in 2 weeks to begin her rabies series. They also asked (optional test) if I wanted to have her tested for leukemia and aides. Money is tight right now so I'm not sure what to do, but I should ask how much $$$. Any opinions on these tests?
He strongly advised against her wearing a collar since she will be an indoor cat. He said cats that get a collar stuck on something totally freak out to the point of serious or fatal neck injuries- I couldn't live with that! After reading articles and watching videos, I've decided not to even do leash training, as I fear this will begin a love affair with the outside world.
Now for the heavy topic; spaying! He also doubled-down on waiting until she is six months. I pushed for five, and he would do it, but he brought up her small size and recommended six. I brought up the 8 week scenario and he rolled his eyes. He said that derives from a rescue shelter philosophy, who's goal (rightfully so) is to sterilize the cat. Oh, you get a sterilized cat, but if the slightest membrane is left behind, the cat will "think" it is in heat, and go through the same behavior. That would be bad.
I'm sure this is a very controversial subject. Maybe different views are caused by young vs. old vets, or shelters vs. the market place. I don't know, I'm thinking five and a half months, how's that for a compromise!
I was successful trimming Lucy's talons and that certainly makes a difference. My arms and legs are actually starting to heal
Rich