Have you recently adopted a kitten? If so, your tiny ball of fur is going to keep you on your toes over the next year. Baby cats are very, very cute. They are also very, very playful, and have a heck of a knack for mischief. You’ve got quite a bit of pet parenting ahead of you in the coming year. Read on as a Chesapeake, VA vet lists some kitten care mistakes.
Letting Fluffy Out
It may be cute watching little Fluffy chasing butterflies through the dandelions, but your furry little friend will be much safer as an indoor kitty. It’s much easier to teach your feline pal to be an indoor-only cat from the start than to try to change her mind later.
Being A Cat Toy
Your furball is going to spend a large chunk of the coming year trying to figure out how all those claws and teeth work. Practice makes purrfect! Just don’t be little Fluffy’s test victim. Teach your tiny lion to play with her toys, not your finger. If she bites or scratches you, tell her ‘No’ in a firm tone, and then ignore her until she‘s ready to behave.
Delaying Veterinary Care
Even if your kitten looks perfectly healthy, she still needs to go to the vet. In addition to getting little Fluffy microchipped and started out on her vaccines and parasite control, you’ll also want to schedule spay/neuter surgery. At home, keep an eye out for signs of illness, such as fever, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, and behavioral changes. Baby cats can get very sick very fast, so call your vet immediately if you notice anything off, even if you don’t think it’s serious.
Not Socializing
Our feline friends all have their own purrsonalities. Some are simply going to be cuddlier than others. However, your furball’s kittenhood experiences will play a huge role in helping her purrsonality develop. Socialization is very important! Pay lots of attention to your pint-sized pal. Hold her, pet her, and let her sleep on you if she likes.
Not Taking Enough Pictures
This one is admittedly the least crucial, but it’s still worth mentioning. Little Fluffy’s adorable toddler stage will be over before you know it. Capture these moments before they’re gone!
As your local Chesapeake, VA animal clinic, we are dedicated to offering top-notch care. Please feel free to contact us anytime!
