Getting a new pet for the family is a huge decision and a big responsibility. There are a few things you should know before purchasing or adopting one. While it’s no secret that puppies and kittens are quite different, there are certain things you should look for in either that signify a healthy and happy pet. Unless you’re willing to take in a potentially sick animal, look for the following signs of good health.
Note: When looking to get a new puppy or kitten, never go to a pet store. The animals are most likely from mills, which greatly increases the odds of getting a sickly animal. When looking for a new addition to the family, visit shelters or ask a vet to suggest trustworthy breeders in the area.
- Clear Eyes
The eyes of the puppy or kitten should be clear of any discharge or gunk. While little crusties are normal, goop in the tear ducts could mean sickness is on its way. While the discharge can be cleared up with eye drops, it can indicate something more serious such as past trauma. - Clean Ears
Ears of both animal species should be clean and free of any odor or redness. Ear mites can be an issue with puppies and kittens that is fairly easy to take care of with medicated drops from a vet. Take care with these animals, as ear mites can spread to other pets. - Fresh Breath and Easy Breathing
The breath of the prospective pet should be fresh and the teeth free of tartar or plaque. The mouth and lips should have no sores or growths. Along with a healthy mouth, there should be no coughing, sneezing, or wheezing. While these signs could mean the animal has simply overexerted itself, they could be a sign of respiratory problems, which are usually treatable with antibiotics. Respiratory issues in a kitten could occasionally indicate feline infectious peritonitis (FIP), a terminal illness that can be difficult to diagnose. Other symptoms of FIP include lethargy, lack of appetite, fever and/or diarrhea that doesn’t respond to antibiotics, and a distended belly from the accumulation of fluid in the abdomen. There is no cure for FIP, and it is always fatal. - Pink Gums
In a puppy or kitten, the gums should be a healthy pink. Pale gums could mean that it is anemic due to some underlying problem. If a pet has white or pale gums, it should immediately be taken to the vet to check for medical issues. - Discharge-Free Nose
The nose should be clean and free of any discharge. Check for sores. While some injuries may happen with a rowdy puppy or kitten, there should be no sores on the nose. While it isn’t unusual for a kitten to have a dry nose, a cracked nose is a sign of concern. - Healthy Coat
Both kittens and puppies should have a healthy and clean coat. Check for sores under the fur. A sick animal will have dull fur that may be patchy. A dull or otherwise unhealthy coat may be a sign of inadequate diet. Ask what food it is being fed. Low-quality food may lead to dietary problems and digestion issues. And sometimes a patchy coat can indicate ringworm, a contagious but fully treatable fungus that can make an otherwise healthy animal appear ill. - Healthy Weight
Puppies and kittens shouldn’t have any weight issues. The average size depends on the breed and age of the animal, but a healthy weight generally allows you to easily feel the ribs, though the ribs shouldn’t be protruding. - Normal Bladder/Bowel
Bladder and bowel issues can be signs of serious issues. Puppies with diarrhea may occasionally have parvovirus (parvo). Parvo is a highly contagious disease that presents with vomiting, lethargy, bloody diarrhea, and fever, and it can lead to death. However, just because a puppy has diarrhea, doesn’t mean he or she has parvo. Only a vet can tell whether the pet has the virus. Puppies with diarrhea may simply need a change in diet and are still fully adoptable. - Lively Disposition
One of the earliest signs in puppies and kittens that something is wrong is the way they act. They should be active and lively. Kittens and puppies are known for getting into trouble and bouncing all over the place. If you have a lethargic animal, something is probably wrong, and the animal needs veterinary care. - Good Appetite
Often, the first sign that something is wrong is a lack of appetite. If a puppy or kitten stops eating, something is wrong. Take this pet to the vet immediately, especially if you notice more than one pet with this issue.
