Your Kitten's Veterinary Visits: The First Year
April 23, 2009
Kittens ingest antibodies from their mother's milk that protect them against disease. Once they start to eat solid food, however, they need vaccinations from the veterinarian.
Kittens should receive their first series of vaccinations when they're six weeks old. If you adopt a kitten from a shelter or buy one from a breeder, ask for the kitten's medical records. The …Read more »
Getting Ready for Your New Cat: A Wish List
April 23, 2009
Not sure what you'll need to prepare for the arrival of your new little friend? To properly care for your new kitten or adult cat, you'll need to have some basic items ready for when kitty comes to stay.
Recommended items for your kitten or cat's health and safety:
Collar is needed for attaching your pet's identification tag. Make sure …Read more »
Your Kitten's Papers
April 23, 2009
A purebred kitten is a bundle of joy that comes with a bundle of paperwork. All of this 'paper' can be very confusing. Be patient. You need all of this paperwork to make certain you're getting what you're paying for.
Before you leave the cattery, the breeder will give you a pack of papers that will include a purchase contract, …Read more »
Gathering Supplies for Your New Kitten
April 23, 2009
Adopting a kitten is a lot like preparing for the arrival of a new baby--you have to be prepared! A kitten needs food, a place to sleep, a litter box, and other necessities. Purchase these supplies before you bring your kitten home, so your kitten feels comfortable and safe in its new home. Gather the following supplies for your new …Read more »
Kitten-Proofing Your Home
April 23, 2009
Just like new parents must 'baby-proof' their homes, you must 'kitten-proof' yours before your new kitten arrives. Kittens have a lot of energy and they're very curious, so you need to make your home as safe as possible.
Collect all small and breakable objects like nick-knacks and put them in a room that's off-limits to your kitten. Keep the door …Read more »
Growth and Development in Kittens
April 23, 2009
A newborn kitten grows so fast it sometimes seems as if it's getting bigger right in front of your eyes! Like babies, the growth and development of kittens is somewhat predictable, meaning all kittens look and act a certain way at a certain age.
Newborns
What to ask when choosing to board your cat
April 23, 2009
Pet boarding services are an excellent way to reduce your cat's inherent stress from being confined on an airplane or in a car for long hours. But before you board your cat, here are some things to know for your peace of mind and your cat's health and happiness.
Easy Does It - A Gentle Welcome
April 23, 2009
Kittens and cats adapt slowly to change, so the initial homecoming may be stressful for your new friend. It's best to bring your new kitty into your home when it's quiet and calm; then, gradually introduce her to family and friends. Follow these steps when bringing your cat home:
Prepare in advance a quiet room for her that includes food, …Read more »
Why Do Cats Get Hairballs?
April 23, 2009
Cats are extremely clean pets, and are constantly grooming themselves. Their tongues are built in such a way that once hair is on it, there is only one way for it to go, down the hatch. Hair is not digestible, so it just sits in the stomach, turning and churning, until it's a mass of hair, mucous and digestive acids. …Read more »
Cat Health Q&A
April 23, 2009
Should I have my cat declawed?
The subject of declawing is a delicate issue, with the final decision best left to you and your veterinarian. Some things to keep in mind when considering declawing are:
Declawing should be considered only for exclusively indoor cats.
Training your cat to use a scratching post and providing frequent nail trims may minimize …Read more »
