How to Raise a Polite Kitten

Have you recently adopted a kitten? Congratulations! Fluffy’s kittenhood is a very adorable, yet very crucial time. In order to help your new furbaby grow into a friendly, happy adult cat, you’ll need to provide some careful guidance while she’s little. Below, a local San Antonio, TX veterinarian offers advice on teaching your kitten proper petiquette.

Discourage Play Fighting

As your tiny ball of fur starts to get the hang of being a cat, she may have great fun perfecting her pouncing, biting, and scratching skills. She may also start thinking of you as a giant cat toy. Don’t encourage bad manners! To discourage rough play, simply tell your feisty furball to play nice. Use a firm tone of voice, but don’t yell. Then, stop the play session, and walk away. Be sure to offer plenty of fun toys so your ferocious little hunter has a proper outlet for all that energy.

Socialization

Proper socialization is very important to little Fluffy’s mental and emotional growth. To socialize your furbaby, you’ll want to get her used to being handled and played with. Give your furball treats, toys, praise, and attention Always be very gentle when picking up your kitten or putting her down. Also, never force attention on your feline pal. Let her come to you when she wants to snuggle.

Safe Places

Cats can get scared easily, especially when they’re young. Provide little Fluffy with plenty of safe spots to retreat to if she feels scared. You can use kitty tents or condos, or even a plain box. Offer lots of comfy napping spots to make your baby cat feel at ease.

Avoid Punishment

Never, ever punish your tiny furball for doing something wrong. While it may be a bit of an understatement to say that cats don’t think like we do, it’s particularly important to realize that they don’t understand punishment. Little Fluffy might not even associate her behavior with your reaction, and may not understand why you are angry. This can make your kitten feel anxious, scared, or angry, which can lead to a whole slew of behavioral issues. Ignore bad behavior, and reward your feline pal with treats and praise when she is being good.

Does your kitten need shots or an examination? Please contact us, your local San Antonio, TX animal hospital, for all of your cat’s veterinary care needs.