There are few things more precious than bringing a new kitten into your family. However, without the correct preparations for your new arrival, that emotional experience can quickly become very stressful. The first step as a responsible pet owner is to evaluate if you are ready for taking home the kitten. But after you make that decision, you need to have both your home and yourself ready to keep the kitten happy and healthy. Some things to keep in mind when caring for kittens. Some essential elements of kitten care that you may not know:
What is the proper maturity of your kitten for adopting?
Every creature, young or old, needs their mother in those early weeks when they first come into this big scary but beautiful world and kittens are no different. Some vets will say you should rescue a kitten after 8 weeks old and others won’t allow it until they are 12 weeks.Questions to ask before bringing a kitten home
Are you ready for a kitten?
Bringing a kitten home is one of the most wonderful things that could ever happen. However, before you undertake that path ask yourself a few questions.
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Are you going to be around?
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Are you allergic?
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Are you patient?
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Can you keep it long term?
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Are you capable of performing the duties?
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Is your family ready for another member to be added on?
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Are you ready for the scratches and bites that may come?
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Will you promise to stick it out with the kitten when things get tough?
Before bringing that beautiful kitten into your home, the space must be perfectly prepared for their arrival. Well here are some necessary steps to follow:
- Balconies and windows protection: If you live in an apartment higher than the second floor, be sure that these places are veiled or netted. You can also use pet-friendly floor cleaners.
- Stay away from harmful foods: Raisins, garlic, chocolate, coffee and grapes are toxic to cats. Make sure they are hidden and out of reach.
- Dispose of harmful substances properly: ashtrays, cigarette butts, wine bottles and canned soft drinks may contain poisonous substances.
- Lock up sharp objects: Keep knives, scissors, screwdrivers and other easy to reach sharps in drawers which can be locked with a child-proof latch.
- Plug electric outlets: Get a professional to baby proof all electrical ports so as to remove any potential dangers.
- Household products locked up: Keep medicines, creams, lotions, detergents and items such as dental floss in drawers inaccessible to children.
- Cable organization: Dangling cables can be a target for nibbling or play by kittens. Hide cords of any electronic gadget, chargers and other electronics.
- Eliminate toxic plants: Some houseplants (e.g., Ivy, Aloe Vera, Crassula and Dumb Cane) are hazardous to kittens. Try to remove them or give them away.
- Close all cabinets and appliances: Make sure your cupboards, drawers, washing machines, refrigerators, dishwasher doors are closed because kittens can hide there as well.
- Prevent and avoid high jumps: Do not let your kitten jump from high up areas– they may get hurt.
- Have an emergency kit: The kit should have diarrhea, vomiting and other gastro-intestinal medications; oral rehydration salt or electrolyte powder and some basic first aid stuff.
- Interact under supervision: Make sure that babies, toddlers or other pets are never alone with the kitten.
- Keep a close eye on your kitty: Be vigilant about any dangerous situations to prevent mishaps.
The First Weeks When Your Kitten Comes Home
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Keep the Place quite
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Gradual Introduction of Key Components
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Veterinary Check-up
The kitten should be taken to the vet for an initial visit a few days after it has settled in. Signs of illness must however be investigated without delay with a veterinary check if required.
While visiting, the veterinary clinic will give a full health check to make sure he is healthy. That includes looking for skin issues and other maladies. Also, the vet will help to define a list of vaccinations and deworming’s to do. Kittens are extremely susceptible to bacterial and viral diseases, not unlike the human infant. Ask the vet about supplements for immunity to help the kitten fight off infections.
If the kitten is frightened of car travel, maybe the vet could come out to you.
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Socialization
- Rewarding little treats for good behavior acts as a positive meddling, encouraging them further to act accordingly.
- Playing with your kitten is a really important part of their socialization. It also keeps them active and mentally engaged, nurturing your relationship.
- A kitten who becomes accustomed to the sights, sounds, smells and handling by humans when it is young will be more confident as an adult. As a result, provide the kitten and be used to many different environments using watchful supervision of sounds, smells, and individuals. But be sure not to oversaturate or you may inadvertently train them to resist anything new.
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Be patient and nurturing.
The ideal age for adopting a kitten is between 8 to 12 weeks. At this age, they are usually weaned from their mother, have begun to socialize, and can start their vaccinations.
Consider your daily schedule, financial stability, and long-term commitment. Kittens require attention, care, and love, so ensure you can dedicate time to their needs, including feeding, play, and training.
If you suspect an allergy, consult with a healthcare professional. You might consider allergy medications or air purifiers. Additionally, you can try hypoallergenic breeds, which may produce fewer allergens.
Create a safe and comfortable space by removing hazardous items, setting up a litter box, providing food and water dishes, and having toys available. Designate a quiet area where your kitten can retreat and feel secure.
Kittens may face issues such as respiratory infections, intestinal parasites, and dental problems. Regular veterinary check-ups and vaccinations are essential to prevent and address these health concerns.
Introduce your kitten gradually and in a controlled environment. Keep them separated initially, allowing them to sniff each other’s scents. After a few days, supervise short interactions to help them adjust.
Kittens are playful and energetic. Aim for at least 15-30 minutes of interactive play several times a day to keep them stimulated and help prevent behavioral issues.
If your kitten bites or scratches, avoid reacting with aggression. Instead, redirect their behavior with toys and provide positive reinforcement when they play gently. Consistent training will help them learn appropriate behavior.
Be patient and give your kitten time to explore their new environment. Stick to a routine for feeding and playtime, and provide a calm, quiet space where they can feel safe and secure.
Consider costs for food, litter, veterinary care, vaccinations, and grooming. Additionally, budget for unexpected expenses such as emergencies or health issues to ensure you’re financially prepared.
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