Getting A New Kitten? 10 Must Knows And Must Have
Getting a New Kitten? 10 Must-Knows and Must Have
Bringing home a new kitten is an exciting event, but it also comes with a lot of responsibility. Don't worry, we've got everything you need to know right here.
Check out these 10 essential things to know and buy before welcoming your new furry family member:
The first thing you need to know is that your kitten is actually a tiny little carnivore and has basic dietary requirements that need to be met (aka, they want MEAT). Because they’ll be on this diet up until 12 months of age, premium kitten food is the answer for proper growth development. It is well-balanced and meets all your new friend’s nutritional needs.
Now, the age old adage: Should you buy wet kitten food or dry? Let’s weigh out the options, shall we:
Dry food is long lasting, has great shelf life and won’t get stale by sitting out on the counter. The fact that dry food holds out so long also makes it a tad more cost effective. But before you cross wet food off your list, it has its fair share of benefits too
Wet food Provides vital hydration, making it an ideal choice for finicky kittens who don't drink enough water. These nourishing meals are a great way to ensure your kitten stays sufficiently hydrated throughout the day, especially since cats are prone to urinary problems. The tasty and appealing flavor of this diet ensures that your kitten will happily consume it. To achieve a balanced diet, consider incorporating both dry and wet food into your kitten's meals. Just be sure to follow the feeding guidelines to prevent overfeeding, as sterilized kittens are prone to weight gain.
When choosing accessories for feeding your kitten, you'll be surprised by the variety of options available, each with their own specific function. Let's explore the world of cat bowls and accessories...
Even though cats may act like they rule the house, providing them with their own dining set is still a good idea. From stainless steel bowls to interactive feeders, there are many options to choose from when it comes to feeding your feline friend. Plus, you can rest easy knowing they won't accidentally get any extra protein from pesky ants.
Discover the many unexpected things that can come out of your adorable pet's body. From hairballs to small mishaps (litter training is a challenge), it is important to have the right cleaning supplies and deodorizers to keep your surroundings smelling clean and fresh.
Boxes and trays The use of a litter box is necessary for kittens before they can go outside. It is important to keep the tray clean to encourage them to use it, and make sure it is low enough for them to easily access. Use a poop-scoop to remove solid waste daily to avoid any unpleasant smells.
Litters When choosing a cat litter for your kitten, opt for a soft-textured option that is gentle on their paws. Bentonite Clumping Litter is a great example of a soft and gentle litter, easily forming clumps for easy cleaning.
As an expert in the pet industry, it is essential to ensure the safety of your cat while traveling. To prevent your feline from escaping due to anxiety, it is crucial to introduce them to a comfortable cat carrier prior to your trip to the vet. Kittens can become easily stressed in unfamiliar environments and may attempt to squeeze themselves into small spaces, posing a danger to themselves and others. By getting them used to carriers from the beginning, you can prepare them for future travels, as they will likely have routine vet visits for the first 16 weeks of their life.
Improve the health and appearance of your beloved felines with consistent grooming practices such as regular brushing, proper dental hygiene, and careful bathing. Begin introducing your kitten to water at 8 weeks using a warm cloth, then use a soft bristled brush to keep their fur looking its best.
Brushing Properly brushing your kitten's fur is crucial for a fulfilling bonding experience. This routine also eliminates loose hairs and combats hairballs. Choose a gentle brush to prevent any potential issues.
Nails Properly take care of your kitten's nails, use a quality cat nail clipper and begin trimming at 12 weeks old. Only trim every 2-3 weeks to avoid cutting too much, as their nails are essential for climbing.
Kittens require a variety of toys to help them stay physically and mentally engaged, promoting their overall well being. Bonding with your new kitten through playtime also allows them to exercise their natural hunting instincts.
Toys For your kitten's playtime, there are countless options to choose from. You may select a ball or chaser to engage their short limbs. A chew toy is beneficial for maintaining clean teeth and removing plaque and tartar. Additionally, a catnip toy can provide hours of entertainment as your kitten rolls, purrs, and fully enjoys themselves. Wands and teasers also serve as great tools for stimulating your kitten's hunting instincts and satisfying their curiosity.
Scratch Posts Scratch posts can provide cats with a great vantage point to observe their surroundings. However, aside from the entertainment value, these tall structures can also serve as modern art pieces. In addition to satisfying their natural instincts, scratching also has multiple benefits for cats, including cleaning their nails, stretching their muscles, and expressing emotions like stress, frustration, or excitement. Most importantly, it helps protect your furniture and carpets from their sharp claws. Don't miss out - get your own scratch post today!
Providing a comfortable bed for your kitten is essential when preparing to bring them home. Your furry friend deserves a cozy spot to relax and rest, especially when they are feeling tired or anxious. It is crucial for them to have a secure space to retreat to, in case they decide to wander off to your neighbors in the future. Offer your furry feline a comfortable bed to rest and relax in, as well as a sense of security.
It is crucial to remember that your kitten must have a collar and ID tag. This is for their safety and to ensure they can be easily identified.
ID Tag Cat identification tags are essential for keeping your kitten safe. These tags not only act as a cute accessory, but also provide necessary information in case your kitten gets lost. It's important to always have identification for your cat to ensure their well being.