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Caring For Kittens By Debbie Best |
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Curious, charming, mischievous, enchanting. You've decided to welcome a kitten into the family. But before bringing the precious little bundle home, some preparation is needed. For one thing, the kitten isn't quite as excited as you are about its new home. Leaving its mother and littermates and being placed in a strange environment is stressful. Here are a couple of ways to ease the transition: bring the kitten home when you'll be able to spend extra time with it, like at the beginning of a weekend or when you have some days off. Prepare one or two "safe" rooms in advance. This will be less overwhelming than just letting the newcomer loose in the whole house at first. As it grows accustomed to its surroundings and is using the litter box successfully, it can be allowed more and more freedom. Your home needs to be cat-proofed. Watch out for electrical cords, rubber bands, string, yarn, needles, pins, staples, paper clips, buttons–you get the idea. Windows should be kept closed unless you have sturdy screens that won't pop out if leaned against. Keep toilet lids down. Prevent access to hot burners on the stove. Look before closing doors to the washing machine, dryer, oven, refrigerator, drawers and closets. A kitten doesn't require a lot of equipment, but there are a few things it will need:
The first year of your kitten's life is its most important. To get it off to a good start, it needs regular veterinary care, a proper balanced diet and the right training. Take it soon for inoculations and a parasite check. And ask when to bring it back for spaying or neutering. Consult with your vet on the correct food. Contrary to what many believe, milk can cause health problems in cats. Other foods to strictly avoid are chocolate, onions, table scraps and dog food. Also, moistening dry cat food will cause it to spoil sooner. Besides, most cats don't like the texture. Housebreaking a kitten is a breeze compared to a puppy. Showing it where the litter box is usually is enough. It probably already learned from its mother's example. Otherwise, help it along by placing the kitten in the box first thing in the morning, after meals, after playtime and the last thing before bed. It will quickly catch on. Put the box in a quiet part of the house, not too close to food and water bowls. Remove soiled litter promptly. Then change litter and thoroughly disinfect and rinse the box once a week. Encourage play by providing appropriate toys for the kitten. A young cat that doesn't get enough exercise during the day may keep its family awake at night. Cat ownership is a long-term commitment. They can live 15 to 20 years, so it's not a relationship to enter lightly. The basic ingredients–make the kitten part of the family, keep it safe, and add plenty of love and affection. Back to Archives |
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