subject: How To Raise Kitten | Development And Raising A Kitten [print this page] All pet owners wish to raise their kittens into healthy and confident cats. From feeding to litter box training, there are some important points that must be kept in mind when raising kittens. In fact even prior to the arrival of your kitten, you must ensure that you are fully prepared to care for her. Keep all the necessities ready such as kitten food, scratching post, litter box, bedding and cat toys. This will allow your new kitten to feel more comfortable and safe in her new surroundings.
Kittens that are handled a great deal are more likely to become affectionate cats. Cuddling and stroking your kitten when she is young will make her get used to it. However, remember to handle her gently. If you have young children in the house, guide them as to how they must handle the kitten. This will prevent them from accidentally hurting her. The kitten must also become used to receiving daily care from you. A routine of grooming, washing the face, cleaning the eyes and ears and bathing must be practiced regularly. Once the kitten becomes accustomed to the routine, she is likely to display fewer problems as an adult. Gradually and gently introduce her to the people and things that are to become part of her world. This could include other family members, children or traveling in the car. Playing and giving attention to the kitten daily will prevent boredom from setting in. Bored kittens are likely to seek out other forms of entertainment which may include spoiling the furniture.
Kittens must be fed only those foods which are appropriate for their age. It is advisable to introduce her to a wide variety of kitten food so that she becomes accustomed to a varied diet. This will prevent her from being fussy and finicky about certain foods. Like young children, kittens too like to push the boundaries and are likely to engage in problem behavior such as scratching, biting or jumping on the furniture. You need to gently set certain boundaries at an early age itself as it becomes very difficult to correct behaviors in adult cats. Sometimes, kittens tend to meow continuously until they get what they want. Giving in to this will encourage them to become noisy and demanding adults as well. It is very important to keep your kitten safe at all times from dogs or bullying children. At the end of it all, you also need to understand that kittens are energetic and full of life, and accepting and loving them as they are will build a stronger bond between you and your kitten.
