Hill's Releases 'World of the Kitten' Report to Enhance Veterinary Care and Kitten Development

Hill's Pet Nutrition has launched its first 'World of the Kitten Report,' emphasizing the critical first year of a kitten's development. This report offers new insights into gut health, proactive veterinary care, and support for shelters. It builds upon Hill's previous 'World of the Cat Report' by providing a comprehensive, evidence-based guide for optimal kitten growth, nutrition, socialization, and veterinary care, aimed at ensuring healthier and happier cats globally.

The report, authored by Hill's feline specialist Dr. Lisa Restine, DVM, DABVP (Feline), is supported by International Cat Care (iCatCare) and the Hill's Cat Advisory Team (C.A.T.), a network of feline specialists, behaviorists, and nutritionists. It outlines best practices for kitten care, offering essential information for pet parents, veterinary professionals, caregivers, and animal welfare organizations.

This report encourages a proactive, evidence-based approach to kitten health. Dr. Restine stated that recognizing the unique nutritional and biological needs during the first year can significantly improve feline health outcomes. The report highlights the importance of addressing the emotional and physical developmental needs of kittens within the first twelve months, in line with guidelines from iCatCare, the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), and the Feline Veterinary Medical Association (FelineVMA).

Key highlights of the report include:

1. Nutritional Standards: Emphasizing the balance of protein, fat, essential fatty acids like DHA, and mineral ratios necessary for kittens' rapid early development.

2. Microbiome Innovation: Introducing Hill's ActivBiome+ technology, a prebiotic blend designed to foster a healthy gut environment for developing immune systems.

3. Updated Care Standards: Recommending a 26-week vaccination booster to enhance lifelong immunity, replacing the traditional one-year booster.

4. The "Fix by Five" Initiative: Promoting spaying or neutering kittens by five months to significantly reduce mammary cancer risk and tackle shelter overpopulation.

5. Shelter Impact: Highlighting that robust foster programs can attain neonatal save rates of up to 95% during "Kitten Season."

The full report is available at hillsvet.com/felinehealth, and veterinary professionals can find related RACE-approved training at the Hill's Veterinary Academy.

Founded over 75 years ago, Hill's Pet Nutrition is dedicated to providing optimal nutrition for pets through extensive research. Their team consists of over 220 veterinarians, PhD nutritionists, and food scientists working on innovative solutions for pet health, including Prescription Diet and Science Diet products accessible at veterinary clinics and specialty pet retailers worldwide.