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Important INFORMation you can't miss
- Please please please familiarize yourself with plants, flowers and foods that are toxic to cats.
- Be careful with bottles of catnip, where kitty (big or small) can get stuck.
- Watch the dryer - it's warm and a great place for kitty to hide. If you are using the dryer, check it twice to make sure kitty isn't in there. My cats have jumped into the washer before but it was easier to spot them.
- Kitties and big cats alike get bored and are naturally curious. Don't overestimate their smarts!
Accidents happen but may be prevented with knowledge - it is heartbreaking to say the least to hear of a tragic loss or injury.
Bonding in your home
Once you have your new furry family member home, you are a new parent! Here are some tips:
- Pick your kitten up frequently, give him a kiss and set him back down which will give him security that he can be both loved and free. Do this often and add time being held - this keeps the socializing process moving.
- Allow the kitten to climb and play on you, which teaches the kitten that you are a source of fun and safety.
- Use your voice to teach the kitten right and wrong. Firmly say 'No' when biting, wandering into dangerous territory or playing too rough. Redirect and teach appropriate play.
- Inspect your kitten's body. Clean ears, eyes, nose, feet and bottom. I like using pet wipes daily to keep them clean in areas they will miss.
- Massage your kittens paws - this will make clipping their nails a more pleasant experience.
Warnings:
- Don't let your kittens bite your hands or feet. This can create a bad habit and will encourage biting when you are not playing with them!
- Play often but keep in mind, kittens have a short attention span. They tire quickly and will need to rest. Some are like the energizer bunny and can play hard and then crash hard!
- Be patient - it can take awhile to get to know him and for him to know you!
Play
Kittens have a lot of energy so they will need lots of playtime - which will create connection with you and will tire them out! They will then crash and burn and if you play with them on your lap, they will typically fall asleep!
Kittens will usually mellow out after being altered and again around their first birthday.