|
The arrival
Try if possible to
be free from work at the time of arrival of the kitten, it is the
first time the kitten is away from it’s mother
and siblings, this could be frightening and lonely for the kitten.
Be present when the kitten discovers it’s new home, talk
calmly to it and handle it gently.
Are there children
in the home it is very important that they are informed about the
needs of the cat. Kittens learn to avoid
screaming children handling them hard, this behaviour can persist
into adulthood. Never leave small children alone with
the kitten in the beginning.
If you have large
living areas try to limit the introduction area at the beginning and
slowly expand. Start with two rooms,
one containing the litter box the other one the food and water
bowls. These should not be at the same place, cats like humans
do not enjoy eating at the toilett.
Put the kitten in
the litter box as a starting point for it’s explorations, after 15
minutes again put the kitten in the litter box,
repeat this a couple of times in order for the cat to find the way.
When the kitten has found the box he will faithfully return.
Then it is time to gradually introduce the kitten to the rest of the
house. Is there an “accident” it’s due to the kitten not finding
the way back to the box, then reduce the area and start all over.
If you want to
switch to another food brand this must be done gradually, a switch
of food should wait until the kitten is
comfortable in its new home. Quick food change can give diarrhoea.
It is very important for a normal development that the cat are
allowed to sleep. Kittens have prolonged periods of REM-sleep.
Never wake up a sleeping kitten!
|
