Adopting a Kitten? 5 Tips for Raising Your Feline Friend

Adopting a kitten is fun but also comes with responsibilities. To ensure that she grows into a healthy, happy adult cat; it takes the right food and care. Utilize these tips to create a strong bond for life.

Adopting a Kitten? 5 Tips for Raising Your Feline Friend

Nutritional Requirements

Resist the urge to buy cat foods solely based on brand recommendations or advertisement strategies. Kittens need specially formulated food with minimal carbs and fillers but with high taurine and protein ratios. You can consult animal care professionals such as those at the Glenvale Veterinary Clinic for advice.

However, don’t make a drastic diet change because it might cause stomach upset. Instead, introduce the new food slowly. Once your kitten has adjusted, only serve the food that meets the required nutritional levels.

Feeding Schedule

Kittens up to six months old need to have at least three meals per day, but they should not have dry food before eight weeks of age. You can also include snacks. At this stage in their lives, boneless fish, raw or cooked liver, and cooked egg yolk help with bone development. Feed tiny amounts of these in between meals, and serve all food on a shallow plate for easy access.

Liquid Intake

Contrary to popular belief, cats of all ages should not have cow’s milk because it causes stomach upset. Weaned kittens only need to have fresh water. If you have orphaned cats younger than six weeks, feed them replacement formula made for kittens.

Socialization

Cats only become aloof when they weren’t properly handled early on. That’s why it’s important to spend time socializing your new kitten. This includes frequent petting, grooming and playtime. Just like children, some kittens are more rambunctious than others. When your furry friend wants to scratch or bite during interactive time, give her a toy to redirect attention.

You should also get your little feline companion used to different textures, surfaces, people and noises. However, remember to make these experiences positive. This includes diligent supervision when she is around children and strangers.

Litter Box Access

Generally, kittens will instinctively seek out a litter box for relief because they like to cover their waste. You can help by placing her in the box after play and meal times. Clean the litter pan every day, and make sure it’s in a room where she has access around the clock. Additionally, the box should have low sides.

Of course, raising your new kitten should take place under a reputable veterinarian’s care. Only medical professionals can detect problems early on. They can also give advice in regards to appropriate immunizations and spaying or neutering procedures.