Kittens are adorable and cuddly. Find out how to care for your new kitten with these tips.
Adding a pet to your home is an exciting time for you and your child. There are many kids that ask for kittens for gifts. After all, they are cute, cuddly, and sweet. Before you run out and get that new kitten, there are some things that you should know to help choose one and to help teach your child about the proper care.
Deciding to Get a Kitten
The decision to adopt a new kitten into your home should not be taken lightly. A kitten may seem like an easy pet, but owning one extends far beyond the kitten stage. When you adopt a pet, you are making a firm commitment to care for that pet for at least the next 15 years and sometimes even longer. A housecat can live beyond 18 years of age. The next thing you will want to consider is the living arrangements for your kitten. The bottom line is that cats should not be outdoor pets. Indoor cats live longer, happier and healthier lives. If you are not willing to bring a cat inside your home, then consider another type of pet. You will also want to think about the cost of raising a new kitten. You might want to adopt a kitten with the understanding that your child will help pay for the pet’s expenses. This is often unreasonable and ultimately, the parent will hold the responsibility. You can figure that a new kitten will immediately cost you anywhere from $100 to $150 for adoption fees, vaccinations, and the spaying and neutering. That does not include food, litter, toys and future vet visits.
Where to Get Your Kitten
Now that you have decided you and your family are willing to make the commitment to care for a new kitten, it is time to find the right one. It is important that your child is in on the decision-making. You need to make sure the kitten is friendly towards children. Even at a young age, kittens may not tolerate children. The first place you should go in search of your kitten is your local pet shelter or pound. These are kittens that need homes most immediately. You are doing a service by adopting these animals. The next place to look is your local pet rescue organization, such as the Humane Society. These are often pets that have lived in foster homes and are waiting adoption. When you choose your new kitten, you will want to make sure that it is healthy. Look at his eyes and make sure they are clear. Also, check for ear mites (it will look like dirt in the ears) and fleas. Ear mites and fleas are very common for kittens that are born outside and are easily treatable.
Bringing Your Kitten Home
Once your kitten arrives at your house, it is always best to isolate the kitten in a small bathroom or other space for a couple of days. This will allow your tiny kitten to get used to the smells and sounds of your home and to you and your child. Provide a clean litter box, fresh water, and a premium kitten food. When you let your kitten out, make sure he or she knows where to find the litter box the next time.
Spend time with your kitten and teach your child how to handle it. If you teach your child to respect the kitten, then he or she will soon become best friends with your child. Cats do have an independent nature about them, but they do love the people dearly that they are close to.
