INCAPAISLEY CATTERY

TAKING THE NEW KITTEN HOME

The equipment you are going to need when you bring a new kitten home is a bed, a scratching post, food and water bowls, litter box, kitten food and of course, toys. If you purchased the kitten from a breeder, it is a wise idea to check to see what food and litter the kitten was raised on. It is also good to have the shot record so when you take the kitten to the vet, you can see what other shots are necessary.

the kitten's first room should be warm, small and secure with virtually no hiding spots. Most beeders will recommend that you keep the kitten there for two weeks. This gives you time to socialize with the kitten. If there is another pet in the household, wait to introduce that animal. Get a pet carrier and put the family pet in the carrier and take it into the kitten room. On another occasion, take the new kitten and put him or her into the carrier and place him in the other animal's domain. As time goes by, you can bring the kitten out in your arms and introduce her or him to everyone else. Be sure to clip claws on everyone.

Learning to use the scratching post can be very important - if your kitten scratches on the furniture, pick him up and return him to the post and take and use his paws to simulate scratching. There is also a product called "Sticky Paws" that can be used to discourage kittens.

Your kitten needs lots of firm and consistent discipline. He will respond to play periods, love and encouragement, not punishment.

burmese kitten collage

Burmese Kittens

Kitten Risks:

Fleas, mites and worms are all potential problems. There are medications that will eliminate each and every one of them. You need to take a stool sample into your vet check appointment. Other problems could be poisonous plants. It is your responsibility to check on the internet to see if your household has a plant that could be a hazard to your kitten. Also, objects such as twisties, rubber bands, coins, etc. can be toys to a kitten and once swallowed are trouble.