What supplies do I need for a new kitten?
You need the basics. Food, dishes, water bowl, some bedding, and toys. It's also important to think about their litter box, what kind of litter you're going to get, and where you're going to put it. Kittens need to scratch, so lots of scratching posts and towers where they can expend their energy are essential. Kittenhood is a great time to teach lots of new skills, like wearing a collar or a harness and learning to love their carrier. Having all of those things on hand is a really good first start.
How do I kitten-proof my home?
Kitten-proofing your home can be a challenge. Kittens are very athletic and smart, so they will get into just about anything. However, you can do some things to help prevent them from getting into too much trouble. Place potted plants where they can't reach them, especially if they're toxic, and consider removing them from the house completely. Keep food and food waste out of the kitten's reach by keeping counters clean and ensuring the garbage is in a cat-proof container. Also, make sure the litter box is somewhere that won't get overly dirty if they start flinging litter.
What is the best diet for a growing kitten?
It's important that kittens eat kitten food. If it says kitten food on the bag, you're already off to a great start. Some kittens still need to have their food softened or eat wet food because their teeth are not up to the challenge of hard kibble. As they get older, you can transition them to dry food or continue feeding a mixture of wet and dry.
How often should I feed my kitten?
Little kittens under eight weeks of age should be eating around four times a day. They have little stomachs and can't hold a lot at once. As they get older, you can reduce that to three or two times a day. Your average kitten, around six months old, will eat about two times a day.
When should I take my kitten to the vet for the first time?
You should bring your kitten to the vet as soon as you get them, within the first week or so. There are many things we can discuss, and probably some vaccines are due.
What vaccines does a kitten need and when?
Kittens need some core vaccines when they're little. There's a combination called FVRCP, which covers a bunch of respiratory viruses and cat distemper. The feline leukemia virus vaccine is also core for kittens. Ideally, we see them for their first vaccines when you get them, usually around eight weeks of age. Sometimes boosters are needed, and we'll see them again for a couple more months.
How do I litter train my kitten?
Litter training kittens is really easy. Kittens have an instinct to dig before using the bathroom and then to bury it after. Just make sure they have a litter box nearby that's easy to find and easy for them to get into.
What are some common health issues in kittens?
There are a few things we see very commonly in kittens. The first is parasites, sometimes intestinal worms, and often ear mites. They are also prone to upper respiratory tract infections, which look like a cold. They get watery eyes, a little bit of tearing, and sniffly.
Diarrhea is also common in kittens, which can happen from stress or abrupt food changes. There are lots of things we commonly see in kittens.
How do I socialize my kitten properly?
It's important to introduce your kitten to lots of new and different things in a positive and fun way. Socialization to other people, children, other pets, their kennel, and travel are all important. The golden rule is to make it fun. Never force the kitten to do something they don't like. Food is often a good way to make them interested in a new activity, and you can try that with success.
What is the best way to introduce my kitten to other pets?
It's important that the kitten feels like they have an escape route when you're introducing them to other pets. Sometimes they'll want to approach and see the other animal, and sometimes they'll want to keep their distance. It's also important that the other pet feels safe and has an exit because kittens can be a bit much. Make sure you go slow. Consider steps like letting them smell each other, switching beds, or exchanging toys between the rooms where the kitten and the other pets are. These can help make introductions easier.
How often should I groom my kitten?
Cats are great because they come with built-in brushes and often do most of their grooming themselves. However, if you have a long-haired cat or a cat that likes to play in the sink or potted plants and gets quite dirty, it's important they learn to enjoy being brushed. Bathing cats isn't generally necessary unless they've gotten really dirty.
What type of toys are best for kittens?
Toys that are too big to swallow are a good choice for kittens. If you have anything with strings or dangly bits, it's important to play with the kitten supervised. Those strings can become a real problem if they eat them.
How do I ensure my kitten gets enough exercise?
Having an indoor cat, especially, means you'll have a very energetic kitten without much space to run around. You'll need to make sure they learn some skills to play inside safely. Running, jumping, and chasing a toy on a string are wonderful exercises. You can also train your cat to do tricks like sitting, shaking, or weaving through your legs. This not only gives them exercise but also teaches them skills they might need later in life.
What are some signs of a healthy kitten?
Healthy kittens are playful, active, and hungry. Kittens that run around, get into things, and even try to steal food are generally healthy.
When should I spay or neuter my kitten?
We generally recommend spaying and neutering around six months of age. Most kittens are developed enough for anesthesia to be safe and haven't yet had any heat cycles or behaviour changes.
What should I do if my kitten has vomiting or diarrhea?
Vomiting and diarrhea can be serious in kittens, and it's important to call right away. Sometimes we can treat it over the phone at home, but often we need to ensure there aren't serious issues.
How can I create a safe and comfortable sleeping area for my kitten?
Kittens like to have somewhere warm and not drafty to sleep, away from high-traffic areas. Often, using the bottom of their kennel or the kennel fully assembled works well as a safe place for them to sleep. Make it comfortable with some toys and a nearby food dish. This works really well.
If you're searching for veterinary care you can rely on, we're here to help. Call (306) 955-6111 or email contact@forestgrovevet.com to schedule your pet's appointment. Our team is committed to keeping your pet happy and healthy.