So you have decided to become the owner of a kitten. Some basics of kitten care include preparing your home for the kitten, feeding and other daily maintenance, discovering things around the house that may be harmful to your new kitten, and responsible pet ownership.
To prepare your home for the new kitten, there are several things you should consider. First, look around your house, keeping in mind that kittens love to explore, to hide, to chew and to climb. Next, remove or place any dangling strings from curtains and such in high places so as not to tempt the kitty. Also remove breakables from shelves and secure low cabinets. Finally, keep the toilet lid down or, better still, restrict the kitten from the bathroom area.
Your kitten will have pretty basic needs, including a bed, a clean litter box, food & water, and a scratching post. Maintain these items as you would your own. When the cat's bed becomes too full of loose hair, have it cleaned. When feeding a kitten, try to clean the food and water bowls at least once a day to prevent bacteria growth. You should also see that the litter box is cleaned often, fully replacing the litter every few days. It's also a nice idea to have a few toys ready when you bring your kitten home.
Certain household plants and chemicals are poisonous to kittens and cats in general. For example, antifreeze is poisonous to both cats and dogs. Research either by books, internet, or a call to the vet to find out about these items and substances so that you never put your furry friend in danger.
Veterinary visits are a major responsibility when you care for a kitten. You must have your kitten examined soon after you bring it home, not only for required injections, but for a general check-up to make sure your new pal is healthy and happy. You may also be require to register your pet with the local government (many cities require this, however it is not always a requirement for rural communities).
Some people find that litter training a kitten is quite easy. Most cats seem to be drawn to the litter box and need little or no assistance at all. However, some cats can be particularly difficult. You may find it easier to keep the litter box in an open, obvious area that the kitten can easily find. Also, do not completely replace the litter. Leaving a bit of "dirty litter" in the box can attract the kitten there as his nose will associate the litter box as the proper place to potty.
Owning a cat is sure to be a terrific experience, and with the proper care, the bond between you and your kitten can be a fast and infinite one.
To prepare your home for the new kitten, there are several things you should consider. First, look around your house, keeping in mind that kittens love to explore, to hide, to chew and to climb. Next, remove or place any dangling strings from curtains and such in high places so as not to tempt the kitty. Also remove breakables from shelves and secure low cabinets. Finally, keep the toilet lid down or, better still, restrict the kitten from the bathroom area.
Your kitten will have pretty basic needs, including a bed, a clean litter box, food & water, and a scratching post. Maintain these items as you would your own. When the cat's bed becomes too full of loose hair, have it cleaned. When feeding a kitten, try to clean the food and water bowls at least once a day to prevent bacteria growth. You should also see that the litter box is cleaned often, fully replacing the litter every few days. It's also a nice idea to have a few toys ready when you bring your kitten home.
Certain household plants and chemicals are poisonous to kittens and cats in general. For example, antifreeze is poisonous to both cats and dogs. Research either by books, internet, or a call to the vet to find out about these items and substances so that you never put your furry friend in danger.
Veterinary visits are a major responsibility when you care for a kitten. You must have your kitten examined soon after you bring it home, not only for required injections, but for a general check-up to make sure your new pal is healthy and happy. You may also be require to register your pet with the local government (many cities require this, however it is not always a requirement for rural communities).
Some people find that litter training a kitten is quite easy. Most cats seem to be drawn to the litter box and need little or no assistance at all. However, some cats can be particularly difficult. You may find it easier to keep the litter box in an open, obvious area that the kitten can easily find. Also, do not completely replace the litter. Leaving a bit of "dirty litter" in the box can attract the kitten there as his nose will associate the litter box as the proper place to potty.
Owning a cat is sure to be a terrific experience, and with the proper care, the bond between you and your kitten can be a fast and infinite one.
About the Author:
Kitten care isn't difficult, but if you'd like more information about it, visit newkittencareguide.com.
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