Welcome Tips

WELCOME HOME SET-UP: 

Here are some simple suggestions (just my opinions) for introducing one of our kittens to its new home. 

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KITTY-PROOFING:

*Before kitten arrives: kittens are a curious bunch and will touch or lick or bite anything.  Keep chemicals, wires, and any small objects out of their reach.  Be sure to also keep the toilet lid down for their safety.  Be careful of small spaces where kitten can get in but not out.  Avoid strings that kitten could swallow or get tangled in.

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 *Arrival: When you arrive home, place the carrier in a smaller room that will be your kitten’s new home for the first few hours (or even a day) while they adjust... a room that you are in often, or make time to visit often while kitten is there adjusting and exploring, and sit (preferably on the floor) so they can get comfortable with you.  Place their food and water in bowls that are not plastic, please, if possible as they are not easy to keep bacteria-free. Place these bowls as well as the litter box and toys in their room. 

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  *Litter box recommendation:  1 litter box per cat, plus one in the home; it is also good to have one on each level if you have a mutli-level home (if you are going to let them roam on the other levels).  Keep the litter boxes away from food area but make sure kitten can find it and can get into it.  Also, dust-free litter is best to prevent damage to their little lungs.  

  Our kittens are well socialized and curious and will adjust quickly, but don’t force them.  Cats all adjust at their own pace.

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THE GREAT OUTDOORS.

 Although these little ones are not to go outside, the outside can come to them.  I recommend a cat bed by the window for them to daydream of chasing birds, etc.  They also love cat trees and any climbing structures (make sure sturdy and untippable). Scratching posts are essential and will spare furniture and allow them a positive place to sharpen their claws and enjoy climbing skills. These, as well as toys, will provide exercise and mental stimulation.

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BE GENTLE:

The time, effort, and money you have put into finding just the right kitten is evidence you plan to take great care of it and give it a loving home.  I am sure you know, but remind others (especially young children) who play with your kitten: too much rough play encourages aggression and/or could possibly hurt the kitten. 

  Just a reminder: never let anybody punish your kitten, hit, or slap it. This will give you the opposite affect you want.  Redirect your kitten with toys or positive play.  Your kitten has been raised with love and it will give it back as it grows to trust and love the humans they now call family.

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FRIEND ZONE:

If you have a cat/kitten that seems bored, you may consider a feline playmate. If you do choose to add another feline friend, it should be close in age or younger than you’re current cat/kitten.  Felines are very social and sometimes they need more than their humans.  An extra cat may mean ‘the more the merrier’ for a cat. If you do already have cats, initial contact under the door is a great way to start.  Your first pet needs to know it is respected and sometimes needs some time and patience to adjust.

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DO YOU HAVE QUESTIONS? 

-You are ALWAYS welcome to call or text me with any questions.-

  I’ve known, loved, and cared for your kitten since it was born.     

  Another great source for knowledge or general help is: http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/cat-care/common-cat-behavior-issues