Adding A New Precious Cat (or 2) to the Family
There are few things as exciting as adopting a cat (or two), and they make wonderful new family members. Before the big day, here are a few things to consider, including introducing them to current pets and understanding the new kitten’s basic needs, health concerns, and safety.
Owning a cat means providing at least 10 to 15 years or more (I had two sweet boys live 20 and 21 years) of TLC, which also includes expenses like licensing fees, vet bills, food, toys, and litter. They’ll need some time and patience to get used to being part of the family.
Cats Need Love Too
People sometimes get cats because they don’t feel they need much attention, but they do. It would be best if you took time out of your day to play and be affectionate. Some suggest adopting two cats so they’ll have each other for company if they are alone much of the day.
If you have other pets, it will be necessary to introduce them to each other gradually. Mostly because cats are more territorial. Pick a neutral location so your current pet won’t feel territorial. Let them sniff each other through closed doors to get used to each other’s scent. It’s easier to introduce a new cat to a home with a dog than another cat.
Introducing Pets to Pets
The family pets you’re introducing the new addition to will feel jealous at first, so you’ll need to give them lots of love and attention, so they don’t feel left out. This is really important!
Teach Young Children to Place Nice
Young children must be taught to be gentle with the new family addition and to handle them with care and respect. They should also be supervised with playing with kittens – avoid injury to the child and the kitten.
Take Them in for a Checkup
Either before bringing the kitten home or within the first week, you should take them to the veterinarian for a check up. The veterinarian will make recommendations on vaccinations and have the kitten dewormed. If you adopt your cat/kitten from a shelter alot of these things will already be taken care of. Make sure to ask for records.
Each Kitty Should Have Its Own Dishes
Your new kitten should have its own food and water dish, in a quiet location away from loud noises or distractions. Dry kitten food can be left out at all times because kittens will eat several times a day and will stop eating when they feel full. Uneaten portions of canned food should be thrown away because they spoil when left out at room temperature. As the cat gets older and less active, you may need to feed in separate meals so they don’t become overweight. Fresh water must be available at all times. Thoroughly clean all food and water bowls regularly to prevent bacteria build up.
Litter Boxes
Litter boxes should be low enough for your kitten to get into and should be placed in a quiet but accessible location. Clean the litter box daily. Most kittens know how to use a litter box already because they were taught by their mother.
All Cats like to Stretch and Scratch
There are many wonderful scratching post and supplies available. Keep them onhand – it will save your furniture! When you catch your kitten scratching something inappropriate, be sure to say “no” in a loud,sharp voice. The goal is to startle him/her. Be consistent, and they will get the idea quickly. With patience, your kitten can be taught to use their scratching post instead of your furniture.
Stimulation
Cats thrive in a stimulating environment. Play is important for cats and is good exercise and will help you bond. Use toys with a string because you want to be careful with your hands (avoiding bites) . Other great toys include empty cardboard boxes, ping-pong balls, and big paper bags.
The most important thing in your new kitten’s life is you. Enjoy watching your kitten grow up – every single moment!. Build a long-lasting, rewarding relationship. Play, Love, Laugh!
