Tips to Caring for a Kitten

What's soft, cuddly and needs all of the attention that you can possibly spare? If you are the proud owner of a kitten, you already know that he/she is all of this and more. To put it simply, your kitten is probably the cat's meow and it's your job to make sure that this energetic little ball of fur enjoys a happy and healthy life.

When you bring a new kitten home, you can expect a certain level of anxiety as he/she gets used to the new environment. By the time they reach the age of 6-8 weeks old, kittens will begin to eat on their own. They will still need warm milk, which you can heat on a kitchen range or in a microwave, and will begin to eat kitten food at an age that is specified by manufacturers and/or a veterinarian.

Like puppies, kittens must be groomed regularly to ensure a healthy and shiny coat. This includes bathing and brushing, which can either be done in your home or at a local pet grooming center. An essential part of caring for your kitten involves making sure that he/she receives the proper vaccinations, especially any that may be required by state law. When it comes to health, a combination of regular checkups and vaccinations are important to your kitten's life and health.

Regardless of whether your kitten becomes an indoor or outdoor pet, it is important to make sure that he/she has fresh drinking water and eats on a regular schedule. When it comes to feeding guidelines, every food manufacturer suggests something different according to your cat's age and/or weight. In order for your feline to maintain a healthy diet, it's important to follow these suggestions precisely unless your vet recommends otherwise.

If your kitten will be living indoors, litterbox training is a must. The most important aspect of this training approach is placement of the litterbox, which should be easily accessible and private for your cat. Your kitten's litterbox should not have so much litter than it feels like quicksand, so go sparingly as you prepare the area for use. After your kitten eats, take him/her to the litterbox until he/she has made use of the facilities. After a while, your kitten will get used to the space and will gain an understanding of how it is to be used.

When it comes to playtime, your kitten will be full of energy. Cats love to pounce, so anything that moves or has a bell attached will be a big hit. If you want to keep it simple, kittens love to chase a strand of yarn and will be more than happy to spend time playing with their new family. Plush mice, catnip and other similar toys will keep your kitten entertained for hours.

The information contained in this article is designed to be used for reference purposes only. It should not be used as, in place of or in conjunction with professional veterinary advice and/or recommendations surrounding kitten care. For additional information on training techniques, safety and health concerns, consult with your local veterinarian.