It’s an exciting time when you have made the decision to find a new feline member of the family. Here are some handy tips and some advice about what to look for and how to prepare.
What to look for:
The parents
Have you met one or both parents?
Are they both friendly and confident?
Do they have health or behaviour problems?
Do you want a long or short haired cat?
Is the kitten happy and confident with new humans and human interaction in general?
The breed
Have you researched your breed?
Are there any breed specific behaviour/health problems
Environment
Is the kitten in an inside home or outside area? Will this be the same in their new home?
Is the kitten confined or able to explore?
Preparing your kitten:
Get to know your them!
If possible, make regular visits to the breeder as they are growing
Try to make these positive and rewarding experiences
Scent blanket
If possible, give a blanket to the breeder which smells of your home to allow your kitten to acclimatise to it before they arrive at their new home.
Carrier
Familiarise your kitten with your carrier if possible
Ideally choose a carrier which has:
- Slatted sides
- Can be taken apart
- Entrance/exit both on the side and the roof
- Ensure there is only one animal per carrier
- Check the weight limit of the carrier compared to the expected adult weight of the cat to save having to buy another carrier later.
Preparing the house:
Litter tray
- Allow one tray per kitten and one extra
- Place the tray in a low traffic area
- Make sure the tray is large enough to turn around in, when fully grown
- House the tray away from food and water
- Try to maintain at least 3cm clean litter depth
- Try to continue the same litter as the breeder for a short period at least
Scratching post
This should be:
- Taller than kitten fully stretched
- Near to preferred sleeping area
Food and water bowls
These need to be in separate areas
Ceramic, glass or stainless steel
For kittens, food should be:
- Little and often
- At least 3-4 times a day
Water
Some may prefer still water in a bowl whereas others may prefer flowing water
If your cat prefers flowing water, consider a fountain water bowl.
Bedding
Position your kitten’s bed:
- In a quiet low traffic area
- Somewhere considered ‘safe’
- High or Low – depending on your kitten’s preference – or several in different places.
Ideally provide more than one bed to allow choice
Routine
Find a routine and stick with it! This applies to feeding routines as well as their play routine
Anti-anxiety products
These are readily available and can help with transition period as they reduce stress and anxiety. Common products are:
- Feliway
- Pet Remedy
These can be used in combination
Healthcare
Vaccinations
Don’t forget your kitten will need vaccinating at approximately 9 and 12 weeks of age.
Call us on 01626 835002 to arrange an appointment for your kitten’s vaccinations.
Insurance
We would recommend that all cats are insured with ‘lifetime’ insurance. We can introduce you to 4 weeks free insurance with Petplan, however we would always advise ongoing insurance cover with a company of your choice.
