10 essential tips on raising a kitten!

Welcome to the wonderful world of cat parenting! Use these 10 practical tips to give your kitten a safe, stress-free and loving start.

1. A warm welcome

Set up a quiet, defined space with basket, blanket, water and food. Let your kitten explore at his own pace.

2. Customized nutritional care

Choose complete foods specifically for kittens. Feed small portions spread throughout the day and monitor growth and stool consistency.

3. Cat litter box: recipe for success

Put the litter box in a quiet, fixed location. Use low dust grit and reward use. Keep the litter box clean for a positive association.

4. Daily play time

Encourage hunting and thinking play with fishing rods, mice and puzzles. Short, frequent play sessions prevent scrapping behavior.

5. Health and veterinarian

Schedule timely vaccinations, deworming and chip. Ask questions about spaying/neutering and preventive care.

6. Scratching = natural behavior

Offer a sturdy scratching post/scratching board and place it on walking routes or next to favorite sleeping spots. Reward scratching in appropriate places.

7. Kitten-proof your home

Remove poisonous plants, cords and small objects. Store cleaning supplies and medications safely.

8. Socialization

Introduce sounds, people and friendly pets step by step. Keep sessions short and positive.

9. Training with rewards

Work with clicker or verbal rewards. Start with name recognition, come-on-command and target training. Keep it playful and short.

10. Patience and love

Be consistent, calm and encouraging. Small steps pay off the most - a strong bond will follow naturally.

Are you sometimes away for long periods of time? Book a cat sitter at home so that your kitten remains in his familiar environment.