With the increasing number of pets and engaged pet parents nationwide, the demand for specialized veterinary care continues to grow. Paediatric care for kittens and puppies is one such area gaining attention, as early-life health significantly impacts long-term well-being. Many veterinary clinics are adopting structured Paediatric Protocols developed by industry expert bodies such as the WSAVA and the Waltham Petcare Science Institute to enhance the quality and consistency of care.
These protocols include practical tools and guidelines that help veterinarians and pet parents closely monitor young pets’ health. For instance, the Muscle Condition Score involves gently checking areas like the head, shoulders, back, and hips to assess muscle strength and detect any loss, which could indicate illness or poor nutrition. The Body Condition Score helps determine if a pet is underweight, at an ideal weight, or overweight by examining the waist, ribs, and tummy. We also use the Faecal Condition Score, which rates stool consistency from very hard to runny, helping us spot digestive issues or early signs of illness. Finally, a Growth Chart allows us to track age, weight, and height, compare each pet’s growth to healthy standards, and catch any concerns early on. Together, these tools enable tailored paediatric care to meet each pet’s health and wellness needs.
As a practicing veterinarian, I have found that one of the biggest benefits of structured paediatric protocols is the ability to facilitate more meaningful conversations with pet parents about critical health topics. Pet parents feel empowered and increasingly engaged because, through these conversations, they are armed with accurate information and guided toward trusted resources for further research, enabling them to consistently ask insightful and relevant questions about their pets’ care. Ultimately, such programs support a collaborative relationship between veterinarians and pet parents, promoting better health outcomes for kittens and puppies.
Remember, regular paediatric visits during the 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 6th months of your pet’s life are essential for planning vaccinations, nutrition, and growth monitoring, laying the foundation for lifelong health and wellness.
(Dr. Makrand Chousalkar, Top Dog Clinic, based in Mumbai)