Expert: Karen Craft - 6/13/2009

Question
I shall be getting a new kitten in around 2-3 weeks. I have never had a cat before and i don't know how to treat it.. what i need for it... what  is dangerous or anything i really need some help i hope you can help me. thanks in advance.

Answer
Hi Lorynda,

Welcome to the world of kittens and cats. I am attaching some links for you that will give a lot of info that you can use. Kittens are little bundles of energy that go off for short spurts. Cats are quiet companions that can run the gamut from being aloof to a complete snuggle bunny. Part of that depends on how old the kitten is when you get him and how you raise him. If he is young and you show him lots of affection and attention he will be your best pal.

Special play time is great for the kit. It creates a time for bonding and a time to get rid of excess energy. Get feather toys, tie a furry mouse on a string, or my favorite, get a laser pointer. Play with your kit every day. Get grooming tools. Get some special treats he likes. Feed him one or two of those. Then brush him out. Touch his paws gently. Get him used to you handling him.

You will need one to two litter boxes. Make sure they aren't too high so he will be able to climb in and out with no problem. Use a good scoopable litter. Scoop his box out everyday. Change the litter completely every week.

Make sure he has clean fresh water every day. Feed him a good cat food. What you feed him depends on what you can afford. But make sure it is a low carb food. I personally like EVO, Wellness, or Natures Variety. You can get these at a good pet store. Purina One is also good. Start him out on kitten food first. Feed him wet food along with the dry. You can also use the wet food as a treat.

Make sure he gets to the vet for a check up. He will need to be wormed. And he will need his vaccines if he or you come into contact with other cats. He should be neutered at about 5-6 months old. This takes care of a lot of problems.

Hopefully this helps you. There is nothing better than having a cat. About the only thing better is having two cats. Good luck.

Ciao, Karen





http://www.doctordog.com/drdognewsletter/kittens.html

http://www.sniksnak.com/cathealth/kittens.html

http://ezinearticles.com/?New-Kitten-Care--Ten-Tips-For-Raising-Your-Kitten&id=1...

http://www.littleshelter.com/library/cat_indoors.htm

http://catinfo.org/index.htm