Have you recently adopted a kitten? Congratulations! Baby cats may be small, but their capacity for mischief is infinite. Little Fluffy thinks of herself as a tiny lion, and will be very interested in mastering the use of all those claws and teeth. You’ll need to stay on your toes to keep your feline buddy safe until she’s past those terrible twos. Read on as a local Marietta, GA vet discusses keeping your cute pet safe.
Petproofing
Kittenproofing is a must! Remove or secure anything that could be dangerous. That includes things like wires and cords, plastic bags and ties, small or sharp objects, chemicals, and medication. Toxic plants are another concern. You can check the ASPCA site here for a list of safe and unsafe plants. We also recommend keeping larger appliances, such as washers and dryers, closed when not in use, and putting wand toys away after playtime. Ask your vet for specific advice on this.
Keep Fluffy In
This is really one of the best things that you can do for your feline pal. While it may be cute seeing little Fluffy chasing butterflies or sniffing flowers, your tiny buddy is much safer indoors, where she’s protected from things like traffic, predators, and weather.
Veterinary Care
Get your furry pal started out on the right paw by taking her in for her initial kitten care visits right away. Although cats are generally hardy, they are very, very vulnerable when they’re small. Watch for signs of sickness, and call us immediately if you notice anything unusual.
Monitor The Furball
By the time Fluffy is fully grown, she’ll spend most of her time sleeping, and will make a visible lump under a blanket or cushion. Kittens, however, can fit into some pretty tiny spots. That puts them in danger of getting accidentally stepped or sat on. Keep a close eye on your feline friend!
Training
Usually cats train their humans, rather than it being the other way around. However, you can teach little Fluffy the do’s and don’ts of being a good kitty. Discourage her from doing things like jumping on counters, which could prove dangerous. If your feisty furball bites or scratches you, firmly tell her No, and ignore her for a while.
Please contact us with any questions or concerns about kitten care. As your Marietta, GA veterinary clinic, we’re here to help!
