Preparing to adopt a kitten

 The decision to expand the family at the expense of a new household, albeit a fluffy one, is a responsible issue. And you need to approach it with all seriousness. How to prepare to take a kitten into the house?

Decision-making

Before deciding to take a kitten, weigh all the pros and cons. An animal, even as small and seemingly unpretentious as a cat, is a living creature with its own needs, desires and character. You can’t put it in a box for the holidays and you can’t turn it off if you don’t feel like talking. A cat will enter your life for more than one year, and with this in mind, you will have to plan your future life. Are you ready for this? Be sure to coordinate these issues with your family. Does anyone in the household have allergies? Even if it seems not, it is better to make sure in advance. For example, visit a nursery and spend some time there. Or borrow a cat from friends for a few days. Allergen tests can be done. As a last resort, agree with the breeder that in case of unforeseen circumstances you can return the kitten within 1-2 weeks. Please note that a kitten is not only a joy, but also some difficulties. For example, a cat may scratch or damage wallpaper and furniture. If the cat litter box is not properly cared for, there will be an unpleasant smell in the house. And sometimes four-legged tenants ignore the tray. The cat is quite independent and can take revenge if you hurt her. Or jump on you from the closet, ambush around the corner. Finally, twice a year, she sheds, and furniture and carpets are quite difficult to clean from wool. Will you go to such hardships? If the answer is still yes, you can start preparing for the arrival of a new friend. 

Safe home for a kitten

Think it through in advance. Cats love to look out the window or walk on the balcony. To prevent the pet from falling, it is necessary to install nets or gratings. There are many dangers in the kitten’s house itself: an oven, a gas stove, cleaning products and detergents, and electrical wiring. Think about how you protect your pet from mortal risk. You will have to hide small things that the baby can swallow. Equip a place to play. In addition, the kitten will need secluded corners where he can retire if he wants. It is important to choose the right place for the toilet. It should be quiet and secluded.

Budget planning for keeping a kitten

It just seems that the cat is small, which means it is cheap to keep. In fact, a kitten will require considerable financial costs from you. Firstly, high-quality food is quite expensive. And savings on feeding will result in additional costs for the veterinarian. Secondly, veterinary care, even planned, should also be taken into account. These are vaccinations, deworming, sterilization, if necessary, treatment. Thirdly, you will need cat care products: litter boxes, shampoos, etc.  

Choosing a kitten

Currently, there is a huge variety of cats, so everyone can choose a pet to taste. To make your choice, ask yourself a few questions.Do you want a purebred or outbred kitten?You can focus on financial capabilities and your own preferences. If you plan to participate in exhibitions, choose a cat with a pedigree.Kitten or adult cat?As a rule, future owners prefer small kittens – they are cute, affectionate and playful. However, their energy is overflowing, and they are actively exploring the world around them. Adult cats, as a rule, are less temperamental and more intelligent, they do not require vigilant attention and care. But in this case, you will not enjoy watching your baby grow.Cat or cat?Behavior is more influenced by character than gender, so there is almost no difference in this sense. However, adult unneutered cats may be more aggressive and seek out love and adventure. In addition, they sometimes mark their territory (including your favorite shoes). A cat during the “hunting” period can loudly call on gentlemen and, if not watched, bring unexpected offspring.

Kitten and baby

A kitten can become a true friend to your child. In addition, a cat can teach a lot. Children who have a cat at home are often distinguished by spontaneity, gentleness, creativity, and independence. However, your task is to explain to the child that a kitten is not a toy. It cannot be dragged by the tail, strongly squeezed or offended. Warn that the pet may react accordingly to causing pain: bite or scratch. Do not get a kitten in the expectation that the child will take care of him. Yes, 5-year-old children are able to feed or comb a cat, play with it. The student can clean the tray (subject to hygiene rules). However, the child is not ready to take full responsibility for the life and health of another being.

Dowry for a kitten

• House.
• Tray and filler (it is better to start with the one used by the breeder).
• Feed (it is better to start with the one used by the breeder).
• Bowls for food and water (preferably stainless or ceramic).
• Scratching post.
• Grooming items: nail clipper, comb, ear lotion, etc.
• Toys (safe).
• Carrying (when choosing a size, keep in mind that kittens tend to grow).