So cute, so cuddly, and so much fun! Kittens are simply adorable. Adopting a little kitten is a good thing to do and can be very rewarding if you think ahead. Remember a healthy cat with proper veterinary care can live to be over 20 years old. That means 20 years of scooping litter boxes, feeding twice daily and daily water bowl changes.
Let's not forget buying high-grade food, high quality toys and proper scratching posts for the home, which can cost $150-300 each. It's also important to take your cat to the veterinarian at least once a year. Last but not least, having extra time you can devote to playing with your cat is vital to their happiness. With all that responsibility, it's important to make sure you are prepared before adopting.
Q) Where should you adopt from?
A) There are many kittens in need of good homes. When you adopt a kitten from the Humane Society or a local shelter, you are potentially saving their life. You may also find some pet stores that adopt for animal shelters and rescues. When you buy a kitten from a pet shop that buys from a breeder or if you buy directly from a breeder you are not rescuing.
Q) What should you feed your new kitten?
A) Assuming the kitten is weaned from its mother, the natural diet for a cat/kitten would be small rodents, birds, insects, and things a cat would hunt and catch in the wild. So thinking along these lines, a high protein, moderate fat and very low to no carbohydrate diet is the best choice.
Q) What kind of litter should you use and how many litter boxes do you need?
A) Cats have a very strong sense of smell. It's best to avoid scented litter. A low dust or dust free clumping litter usually works well. Cats prefer multiple litter boxes. It's best to have one litter box per cat plus one extra box in a small home. In a larger multi-level home, one box on each level would be advisable. Make sure to scoop each litter box daily.
Q) How should you play with your kitten?
A) Never use your hands as toys, this can teach your cat to attack your hands or others at inappropriate times. String toys on a stick that you can dangle for them are fun. These toys often come with feathers or little mice. Small balls you can throw for them to chase are fun too. When it comes to toys the most important part is to play often and rotate toys frequently. Cats get bored of the same old things just like we do.
Q) Should your new kitten see a veterinarian?
A) Yes, your kitten's first visit should be within 24 hours of adoption. Your veterinarian will make sure your kitten has all the needed vaccinations and check the health status of your kitten's eyes, ears, nose, teeth, heart, lungs and abdomen. Your vet can also answer any new kitten questions you may have.
Q) Should you adopt one or two?
A) Kittens have endless energy and they often do not like to be left alone. A friend for your new kitten may be a good idea. Remember, if you adopt two you should be prepared for the additional cost and responsibility.
Northern Illinois Cat Clinic is a full service cat-only veterinary clinic that has been providing exceptional cat care with state-of-the-art technology since 1982. Their goal is to make your cat feel at home in their comfortable, safe and loving environment. The American Association of Feline Practitioners has recently certified the Northern Illinois Cat Clinic as a Cat-Friendly Practice. Learn more at online at http://northernilcatclinic.com, visit them at 295 Peterson in Libertyville, or follow them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/NorthernIllinoisCatClinic..
