Puppy And Kitten First-Year Guide: Milestones for a Healthy Start

April 1, 2025

Welcoming a new puppy or kitten into your life is exciting, not to mention fun. That super cute first year is always packed with changes. From growth spurts and teething to vaccines and training, there’s a lot to keep track of as little Fido and little Fluffy go through that adorable growth spurt. At Coit Hedgcoxe Animal Hospital, we guide pet parents through each phase with tailored care and expert advice. This guide from a Plano, TX vet breaks down the key milestones and what to expect during the first 12 months of your pet’s life. It’s important to get your little buddy started out on the right paw in life!

First Weeks: Getting Settled

The first few weeks are all about bonding and safety. Puppies and kittens need time to adjust to their new surroundings and routines.

Early Essentials:

Schedule the first vet visit: Usually at 6–8 weeks old
Start vaccinations: Core vaccines and deworming series begin early
Set up a safe space: A quiet area with bedding, water, and toys
Choose the right diet: Formulas designed for growth and development

8–16 Weeks: Socialization and Basic Training

This is a critical development window where puppies and kittens are learning how to interact with their world.

Socialization & Training Tips:

Introduce new sights, sounds, and surfaces
Gently handle ears, paws, and mouth
Start potty training and crate training
Teach basic commands like “sit” and “come”
Positive reinforcement only—never punishment

4–6 Months: Teething and Independence

During this stage, young pets can become a little rebellious—just like teenagers!

What to Expect:

Teething phase: Offer chew toys and monitor chewing behavior
Spay/neuter timing: Typically scheduled around 5–6 months old
Increase in energy: More structured play and training sessions help
Boosters and rabies vaccines: Usually due around this time

Pro Tip: Kittens may start jumping and climbing more. Puppy-proofing is key for both species!

6–12 Months: Adolescence and Reinforcement

As your pet approaches adulthood, it’s time to reinforce good habits and continue routine care.

Milestones:

Adult teeth fully in
Transition to adult food (typically around 12 months)
Reinforce training: recall, leash manners,
Annual checkup and first dental evaluation

Frequently Asked Questions

When should my puppy or kitten be vaccinated?

The vaccine schedule typically begins at 6–8 weeks and continues with boosters, every 3–4 weeks until 16 weeks or as needed. Ask your vet for a custom plan.

How do I handle biting or scratching?

You’ll want to do some research, but in a nutshell: redirect energy onto toys and appropriate playing, avoid rough play, and reward calm behavior. Consult your Plano, TX vet if aggression is a concern.

Can my young pet be around other animals?

Only after completing core vaccines. Until then, stick to controlled introductions with healthy, vaccinated pets.

Contact Our Plano, Tx Pet Clinic

Do you have questions about puppy or kitten care? If you’re looking for a great veterinary hospital, you can try googling “best vet near me” … or just come to Coit Hedgcoxe Animal Hospital!