There is nothing more adorable than a kitten. Following are 3 strategies to help your new kitten get a great start and quickly become a full-fledged member of your family.
Make Sure Your Home Is "Pet-Ready" Before You Bring Your Kitten Home
Have your home all set up before you bring your new kitten home. Have your litter box set up, and have their food and water ready. Consider a scratching post to keep your woodwork and furniture intact. Have a comfortable bed ready where your new kitten can get away from the stress of a busy household if necessary. Make sure you do not have any poisonous plants that kittens might want to taste.
Start With A Visit To Your Trusted Family Veterinarian
Make sure your new kitten has the best possible start by taking it to your family veterinarian as soon as possible. Your vet, like the professionals at Seattle Emergency Veterinary Hospital, will give your kitten a physical, making sure it doesn't have any health problems that could possibly be transmitted to other pets in your home. You can ask your vet any questions you might have, and be able to schedule regular immunizations and check-ups to keep your new pet healthy. You will also establish a relationship in case your new pet gets injured or sick. If you don't have a family vet already, you can ask friends or family for recommendations. A trusted family vet will be your best resource for the future health of your new pet.
Ease Your New Kitten Into Its New Home Slowly, And Watch For Signs Of Stress
Keep your new kitten restricted to one room for a day or two, to let them get used to their new surroundings. Try to keep their food and litter consistent with what they are used to, and slowly transition them to whatever you want to use. Keep other pets and children away at first until your new kitten is more comfortable. Watch for signs of stress, and give your kitten places to hide when they need it.
Make sure your home is pet-ready, have your family veterinarian lined up, and ease your kitten into its new life. Take the time to make your home as welcoming as possible and the transition period will go smoothly. Giving your kitten a great start will help them turn into a life-long companion that fits seamlessly into your family.
