|
So, there’s a new furry addition to the family. That’s great. Kittens are playful bundles of joy that are fun companions for you and your kids. However, to make sure that they continue to thrive, you’ll need to give them the care they need both at home and at a McKinney animal hospital or another capable veterinarian. Here’s a list of steps you should take with any new kitten to keep them in good health. Pick a Top-Quality Food Kittens need to consume three times more calories than a grown-up cat, so they’ll need a food chosen specifically for their age-level. Many name brand cat foods have kitten kibble that is nutritionally complete. Just be sure the bag is marked by the Association of Animal Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) so you don’t have to use additional supplements. Once you choose a healthy food, you’ll need to set up a feeding routine. Young kittens between 3 and 6 months old should be fed three times per day on a consistent schedule. After 6 months, it can be dropped back to two feedings. When in doubt, check with your veterinarian to see how much your kitten should eat. Also, be sure that their water bowl is always full. Choose a Veterinarian A good vet will be the most important person in your kitten’s life besides you. Choose a McKinney animal hospital or one close to your home, but do your research. Ask around for recommendations and referrals from friends or a local animal shelter. Vets will help with vaccinations and healthcare but are also great for discussing other issues like food types and flea medications or how to introduce your kitten to other animals in your home. Veterinarians will also let you know what signs of disease to look out for in the first few weeks, so make their appointment early on. Check Your Kitten’s Age Kittens should be 10 weeks old before you take them from their mother. Cats under 10 weeks have developmental issues that will need to be attended to. These include issues with socializing, diet, heat and bodily elimination. If your kitten is young, you’ll want to discuss special care with your vet. Have the Proper Gear Kittens need a lot of specialized equipment to keep them in good shape. You’ll need metal or ceramic food and water dishes. Plastic ones can be a problem for allergies. You’ll also want a fluffy cat bed and a low-walled litter box with a quality litter. Cat brushes will keep them from having issues with hairballs and a scratching post and toys made for their age-level will save your furniture and woodwork. Encourage Sociability Kittens need stability and you want to encourage them to be social from an early age. After they’ve been deemed healthy, you can introduce them to your other pets. Play with and handle your new cat on a daily basis to be sure it remains friendly with people. Your kids will want to play too. Be sure that they’re gentle and the experience is positive for all involved. A new kitten is a fun addition to your home, but they’ll need to be cared for properly to live a long, fulfilling life. With a little information and a good McKinney animal hospital or other veterinarian, they’ll be a faithful companion for many years to come.
Related Articles -
mckinney, animal, hospital,
| 
