| Once you take
your Bengal kitten home, we recommend that you establish a relationship
with a local reputable veterinarian who is familiar with Bengal
cats. |
| You
must seek prompt veterinary care in the event of a health problem
(see contract). |
| Never
allow your Bengal cat to be anesthetized with an injected anesthetic
like ketamine. All procedures should be carried out under gas
(isoflurane) anesthesia only. Should a bad reaction
occur, the gas is immediately reversible whereas ketamine can
cause permanent damage. We know of at least one Bengal who had
to be euthanized after ketamine injection. |
| When you take
home your kitten you have three days to see
your veterinarian of choice for an examination of the general
health of your kitten and one week to return
the kitten, provided it has not been in contact with other animals
(see contract). |
| The most important
thing to remember is that this is your pet, and you
have the control over what treatment is provided. You
should NEVER feel pressured to conduct expensive tests or have
excessive vaccinations. If you feel uncomfortable at all, PLEASE
seek another doctor. We will be happy to share our experiences
with you and recommend veterinarians in the San Diego area. |
| When you do
go to the vet, bring your kitten in your own carrier with at
least one clean towel from your own home. Sick
animals go to the vet. Only take the cat out of the carrier
when the doctor is ready. Place your cat on your own towel on
top of the table. |
| If you choose
to let your kitten sleep with you in your bed be certain that
there is a litter box handy (in the room).
You can gradually move the box to the location you prefer when
you are confident that the kitten knows exactly where it is.
Be watchful of hidden corners or spots under furniture; if your
kitten forgets where the litter box is, these are likely alternatives
that can be damaging to your property and habit forming for
your kitten. |
| Your kitten
requires three initial vaccinations for upper
respiratory viruses, called FVRCP. We recommend a heat-killed
vaccine. Your kitten will receive vaccinations at 8, 12 and
16 weeks. You will be provided with health records and informed
of the necessary follow-up vaccinations if any, depending on
the age at which you take home your new kitten. After these
first three, our veterinarian recommends a booster at 1 year
(also FVRCP) and then every three years after that. Your veterinarian
can discuss recommendations for other vaccinations; Bengals
are sensitive cats so it is best not to vaccinate for diseases
they are unlikely to contract since they are indoor cats. |
