Kittens are adorable, fun and unique but it is important to consider that taking
on a kitten is a commitment for its lifetime, which may be 15 to 20 years. So
here are a few things to consider.
Kittens learn what is normal and safe during a very sensitive period of
development between two to eight weeks of age, known as the socialisation period.
During this time kittens will learn what is normal and what they should avoid.
However, most kittens do not stay in the home in which they were born
and are acquired by owners when they are eight weeks and over.
Therefore when choosing a kitten, try to find out how well socialised it is so
that you can choose a kitten that will be most likely to adapt to your home. If
you're looking for a pet for a busy family home,
choose a kitten that is alert, sociable and playful with its littermates. A
quieter, anxious kitten may be less suited to a busy or noisy household. If
you're thinking of getting a pair, a sibling pair is often preferable to two
unrelated kittens and character is more important than gender.
Before getting a cat, take some time to create a cat-friendly home. All cats like
safe, predictable environments that smell familiar to them. It is essential to
provide at least one quiet place for your cat to retreat to and hide so
they can feel safe. Provide easily accessible resources including more than
one scratch post, multiple litter trays to choose from and plenty of
opportunities for play. Cats also love to climb so they can survey their
environment from the raised vantage point. Providing multiple shelves for
perching will fulfill this need.
Although two kittens homed from the same litter
may remain close, they may grow apart as they get older and reach social maturity,
between the ages of 18 months and four years old.
Therefore to avoid a potential conflict, it is important that they have access to
separate resources such as separate food, water bowls, litter trays and toys. A good
rule of thumb is to provide one resource for each cat in the household plus one
extra.
Before getting a kitten, ensure you will be able to provide them with an
appropriate diet. Kittens should have access to fresh water and be fed
commercial kitten food to make sure their nutritional needs are met. Follow
the manufacturer's instructions and avoid feeding more than the total daily
recommended amount, as this can lead to obesity.
If needed, speak to a vet about the most appropriate diet and feeding regime.
Finding a local vet and building a relationship with them before you get a
kitten is very important. Due to their small body size and immature immune
systems, a kitten's health can deteriorate very quickly, so it's important to be
able to take them straight to the vet if they are unwell. It is very useful to
visit the practice to find out about the location, the cost of routine health care
and the opening hours before making your choice. Make sure you discuss all aspects
of your cat's care with your vet and consider taking out pet insurance. Your
vet will also ensure your kitten is appropriately vaccinated, microchipped
and neutered. Kittens should receive vaccinations from eight or nine weeks of
age, with a second vaccination at around 12 weeks of age to protect them from
serious infectious diseases – even if they're indoor cats. Cats Protection
recommends microchipping as the safest and simplest method of permanently
identifying your cat should they get lost.
Finally, neutering can be carried out from four months of age or younger. Neutered
cats live healthier lives and neutering is the most humane way to help minimise
the unwanted cat population and to help stop unwanted pregnancies. Neutering also
prevents certain illnesses and can reduce spraying, straying and fighting
with other cats.
Before you bring your kitten home, make sure you've kitten-proofed the house to
help keep them safe. Kittens love to explore and they can squeeze into the
smallest of spaces and have a habit of sleeping in the most peculiar places.
Block off any gaps between the cupboards, furniture and the kitchen appliances.
Screen off open fireplaces and always supervise your kitten if you have a lit
fire. Keep cupboards, washing machines and tumble dryer doors closed. Toilet lids
should be kept down to avoid the risk of drowning or coming into contact with
cleaning chemicals. Ensure that hot liquids are never left unsupervised. Keep
all cables and wires securely protected and out of reach. Kittens should never
have access to balconies and all external doors and windows should be
securely closed off or covered over with strong wire mesh with no holes for your
kitten to fall through. It is best to keep a close eye on your kitten
throughout the day to ensure they haven't gotten up to any mischief!
Although they won't stay young for long, the preparation and care you provide for
your kitten will help ensure their happiness as an adult cat and set the
path to a long-lasting companionship.