Saturday, May 11, 2019

How to Raise a Kitten into a Confident Cat

Komentar


Provide your kitten with safety and a sense of security.
New kittens are dependent on you to help them stay safe and thrive in their new homes. Here’s what you can do to provide your kitten with safety and a sense of security:

Give them time

10 to 12 weeks is the ideal age to adopt a kitten. Some are adopted as early as 6 weeks, but adoption at that age can be stressful for kittens and may make them fearful or shy. A kitten that has been gently handled by humans will be friendlier and more well adjusted, so look for inquisitiveness and confidence in a new kitten.

Cover the basics

Young kittens need a place to feel safe—something reminiscent of being surrounded by their mother and siblings. A blanket-lined cardboard box or cat bed can be a great replacement. For the first year, kittens require the extra protein and calories found in kitten-formulated foods, so be sure the food you choose is created just for them. Begin litter training by placing your kitten in the box after meals or right after waking and gently simulate digging with the kitten’s paws. Never punish a kitten for missing the box, and always praise him for using it correctly. Provide a scratching post to prevent furniture damage.

Introduce new family members slowly

Place the kitten in a quiet room, along with a bed, litterbox and food, until he gets adjusted. Introduce family members one at a time, providing extra oversight with children. Teach children how to gently interact with the kitten and remind them to wash their hands after handling him.

Kitten-proof your home

Bundle electric cords and place them out of the kitten’s reach. Put all small items away and remove poisonous plants and insect traps. Close the toilet seat lid, along with kitchen cabinets and the lids to washers and dryers.

Go room by room

Give your kitten the grand tour of the house, one room at a time. Try to prevent him from hiding under or behind furniture. To discourage climbing on the bed simply place him back on the floor when he jumps up or starts the climb.

Prepare your other pets

If you already have pets at home, be sure that they’re in optimal health before introducing a new kitten to the mix. To help ease anxiety, give older cats extra attention. Then allow them to approach the kitten briefly so that they can sniff each other. If they demonstrate physical hostility, separate them and try again in a few days. If you have a dog at home, don’t leave your new kitten alone with him. Introduce them with the dog on a leash. Prevent the kitten from running so the dog doesn’t try to give chase. And remember to reward all pets for their good behavior during these introductions.

Keep playtime safe

Choose toys designed with kittens in mind—nothing with any small parts that could be ingested. Small stuffed animals or feathers on the end of a small fishing pole are good picks.

Get the first check-up

Make a vet appointment within a few days of the kitten’s arrival and let the vet know the kitten is new to your home when you call. It can help to make a list of any questions you want to have answered. And be sure to talk to your vet about spaying and neutering, which can help prevent health issues and overpopulation. Typically, kittens can be spayed or neutered at 8 weeks of age—but you and your vet should decide when is best for your pet.

Provide comfort while you’re away

Secure the kitten in one room before you leave, and include a bed, litterbox, scratching post, toys, food and water. Consider adding a nightlight or leaving a light on if you’ll be gone all evening. You may want to try playing music or talk radio, too—the sounds can be soothing to a kitten that’s alone.

Share twice the love

Single kittens can get lonely—so consider a pair when you adopt! If you opt for just one, here’s a great way to help with loneliness: Wrap a ticking clock in a towel and place it near his bed—the steady sound is comforting, reminding him of his mother’s heartbeat. Then further ease his stress by picking him up and speaking to him in a soothing tone.

Baca selengkapnya

Games to play with your cat

Komentar


Playing games with your cat is a fun, simple way to enrich her life, provide stimulation and strengthen the bond you share. Here are some games that we suggest: 

1. Chase the "Prey"

Use a toy to simulate the movement of prey. By dragging a toy across the ground on a string, pausing periodically like an animal might, you're encouraging your cat to stalk and pounce like she would in the wild. This will increase her speed and agility and stimulate her hunting instincts. It's a good idea to keep the toy hidden until playtime in order to keep her interested in it.

2. Catnip Fun

Stuffing catnip, a natural herb, into a toy or ball (or buying one that already has catnip in it) can stimulate your cat's interest in a toy. Keep in mind, however, that not all cats are attracted to catnip.

3. Run and Fetch

It's surprising, but many cats love to play fetch - or at least, chase after and catch a ball that you throw. Ball toys simulate the quick, unexpected movements of prey. Put a bell inside to get your cat's attention, and roll or toss the ball so that she can see and chase it. Some cats respond particularly well when a ball is rolled or tossed into another room or around a corner.

4. Play With Your Food

Puzzle feeders and food distributor balls are toys that incorporate your cat's food into a compartment inside. By rolling or pouncing on the toy, your cat can make it release a few pieces of food at a time. Using a puzzle feeder stimulates your cat's desire to hunt and work for food. Remember to account for the food inside a puzzle feeder when determining your cat's daily nutrition allowances.

5. Go For a Walk

While it seems unorthodox to many people, cats can be trained to walk on a leash, and many of them enjoy the activity. When you take your cat for a walk, she can experience the great outdoors while staying safe from cars, other animals, and getting lost. It's also great exercise for both you and your pet.
We hope these games and activities gave you some fun ideas for doing more with your cat.
Baca selengkapnya

5 Cat Fitness Tips

Komentar


How to keep your cat healthy and happy.

More than half the housecats in the United States are overweight or obese. And overweight cats are at a greater risk for cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure and injury, as well as heart, respiratory and kidney disease. But we’ve got some great ways to help your cat be fit—not fat:

1. King of the jungle gym

Jumping onto perches and digging into scratching posts are great ways for your cat to stretch, tone and burn calories. So install cat-sized shelves on walls and windowsills. Provide a scratching post covered in a tightly woven natural fiber so your cat can tone her back and shoulders as she digs in with her claws—or paws.

2. Play partners

Encourage your cat to play at least 20 minutes a day to improve fitness. Try dragging a toy around or rolling a milk jug lid and watch the chase begin. Also consider introducing a second cat to your home. Having another playmate will help ensure your cat exercises even while you're away.

3. An adequate diet

If your vet determines that your cat is already overweight, discuss reducing your cat's portions or switching to a low-calorie food. Or make your cat work for food by using a foraging ball for feeding. Fill the ball with dry cat food—your cat will need to roll the ball for the food to come out.

4. Tackle the great outdoors

Train your cat to walk outdoors on a leash and harness—she’ll get exercise while staying safe from dangers like other animals or cars. Another option? Swimming. (Yes, really!) Contrary to popular belief, cats can be taught to swim. And this fitness-boosting activity allows an overweight cat to exercise with less strain on already-stressed joints.

5. Get competitive

Competitive play encourages your cat to watch you for cues while moving through an agility course that includes ramps, steps, poles, tunnels and hoops. Train at home and then consider entering competitions. Even if you decide to not “go pro,” this activity still fosters emotional bonds and encourages greater levels of fitness.
Baca selengkapnya

Friday, May 10, 2019

How to Litter Train A Kitten

Komentar



Cats are instinctively drawn to "go" in litter-like areas, so chances are, your kitten is already trained. All you usually need to do is introduce her to the box. “Tidy, meet kitty. Kitty, meet Tidy.”
Being prepared with the right supplies is important. Check out the New Cat Owner Litter Guide for tips on picking the right box. For now, keep in mind that kitty is tiny and needs a box with low sides so she can get in and out by herself.
Some kittens will try to eat clumping litter. Not only is this an unappetizing choice for a snack, it can clump up in her tummy and cause some serious issues. So choose Tidy's Non-Clumping blend until she’s 4-6 months old.
Think about helping your kitten get used to her new home by keeping her in one room for a couple days. Once you’re sure she’s using the box (and it should be pretty easy to tell), you can let her explore more of the house. Most importantly, enjoy this time—Tidy knows they grow up fast.
Baca selengkapnya
Komentar


Why do kittens do what they do? No doubt your first response might have something to do with being irresistibly cute. And while no respectable cat lover would disagree, the behaviors kittens engage in actually have another purpose. That is, to help them develop into healthy, well-adjusted cats.
We think of kittens as tiny, purring puffs of fur. But even when they appear to be full-grown they're not yet adults - at least not for the first two years. To start this developmental period off right, it's helpful for kittens to be gently handled by people for at least 15-40 minutes each day. Kittens handled like this during their first seven weeks are more likely to develop larger brains, become better learners and more exploratory, playful companions.

WEEKS 1-7

During their first seven weeks, kittens are already becoming social. By their third week, they can see well enough to find their mothers. By week 4 they are seeking out their littermates. And by week 5, kittens actually start to groom themselves and other cats - quite an accomplishment, considering that some human children grow into adulthood long before they master this.
Around this time they start running, stalking and pouncing, all with a fierceness that is frankly adorable. This gives them the opportunity to learn appropriate social behaviors, like the difference between a play bite and a real bite, and how to keep play wrestling playful (and not painful).
 

WEEKS 7-14

Once week 7 arrives, the play behaviors really ramp up. Before, your kitten was limited to her mom and littermates… but now the world is her toy box. Literally. If she can stalk it, chase it, pounce on it, bat it around or catch it in her mouth and claim victory, she's ready to try it (something to keep in mind as you kitten-proof your house).
Weeks 7-14 are usually the most active play period for kittens. But while it might look like your kitten is all play and no work, remember that all of these kitten behaviors are actually helping her learn about her world, and sharpen her instinctual hunting skills. They also help her develop that signature feline balance and agility.
To encourage her eventual awesomeness (and give yourself some inspired cat entertainment), this is a great time to introduce toys that entice hunting and play activity. Once you do, get ready to enjoy a show.
 

MONTHS 4-6

During these three months you'll see your playful kitten start to recognize the hierarchy in your household. Yes, she'll actually be ranking the members of her family, both feline and human… and you'll know your place in her organizational chart by the way she acts around you.
 

MONTHS 6-18

Now your kitten is a teenager. Which means you'll see more exploration, and even some experimenting with dominance… including challenging members of her human family. So be prepared to set some boundaries, and to parent with love.
 

BRINGING UP BABY

As your kitten grows into and through the different phases of her childhood, remember that random and quirky though they may seem, every behavior really does have a purpose. And that eventually, all of them will combine to make your kitten the uniquely entertaining, intelligent, charismatic (and occasionally exasperating) cat she was born to be.

References
Baca selengkapnya

How to Train a Kitten

Komentar


Training Your Kitten

Training, including obedience and litter training, should take place in your kitten’s first year, when she’s growing and maturing rapidly. The earlier you teach her good habits, the better.

Communicating with your Kitten

Once you’ve chosen a name for your kitten, call her only by that name until she learns to respond. Unless she’s misbehaving, you should talk to her gently and quietly. Pet the little newcomer often to help her become a loving member of the family.

Handling Bad Behavior

When your kitten does misbehave, it often means she’s bored and wants to play. If you can’t play with her, provide diversions like cat toys or a scratching post to keep her occupied. Since your kitten is sensitive to your tone of voice, sometimes all it takes is an emphatic “NO!” to get her to stop misbehaving. You can also try clapping your hands to get her attention more quickly.

Claws and Scratching 

Your kitten will surely act on her urge to scratch — it’s an instinct. But this doesn’t mean your floors and furniture have to suffer. Provide your kitten with a scratching post where she can stretch and scratch her nails.  Encourage her to use the post by attaching a toy or rubbing some catnip on it. You can further protect your furniture by applying lemon-scented furniture polish — it contains an odor that’s usually offensive (though harmless) to cats.

The Kitten’s Litter Box

Most kittens will understand how to use the litter box if they spent the first few weeks of life with their mother and litter-mates. You can help her understand what is expected by placing her in the litter box once every hour at first. Although she may scurry out, praise her when she uses the box. Kittens do not need a full-size litter box and might do better in a box with lower sides (about 1 inch) for easy access.

How to Litter Train a Kitten

Watch your kitten closely. When she begins nosing in corners or squatting, it's time to place her in the litter box. Gently scratch your kitten's front paws in the filler. This way, she will learn to deposit and bury her waste there.

Maintaining the Box

It’s important to remove her solid waste daily. You'll also want to choose the appropriate cat box filler for your cat. Purina® brand cat box fillers are easy to clean and come in several different varieties.

Accidents

If your kitten has an accident, wipe it up with a paper towel and place the paper towel in the litter box. Then place the kitten in the box and repeat the process of scratching with her front paws.
We hope these tips help you in training your new kitten and ensure an easy transition.
Baca selengkapnya

Cat Socialization

Komentar


5 tips for acclimating kids to kittens.

1. Study up and share

Doing research is important so that everyone understands the commitment involved in caring for an animal. Share any information you gather with your kids and pick up some children's books about pets so your kids will be well informed about the responsibilities of owning a cat.
 

2. Establish clear rules and boundaries

Set up ground rules right away—for the kitten and the kids—so everyone knows what's expected.
 

3. Provide age-appropriate supervision

Children under 6 shouldn't be alone with a new kitten—both the child and the kitten can use your guidance at this age. Older kids should demonstrate they know how to be gentle before being left unsupervised.
 

4. Take it slow

Your kitten will experience less stress if he or she has the opportunity to get to know the new surrounding—and a new family—at a gentle pace. Let your kids know that the family’s new pet needs time to adjust before becoming a playmate.
 

5. Create a sense of responsibility

Help your kids understand that a pet is more than a playmate—it’s a living creature in need of your care. Demonstrate this need by assigning each child with an adult-supervised pet care duty. For example, one child could assist with feeding, one with providing fresh water. Other jobs could include checking that the kitten’s bedding is clean or making sure toys are always available. Cleaning the litterbox, however, should be left to adults.
Baca selengkapnya

How to Handle Territorial Aggression in Cats

Komentar


Is your cat acting up, defending her territory, or otherwise being aggressive? Here are some of the reasons why this happens, and what you can do to help.

Territorial Cat Behavior

Territorial behavior in cats can present itself in a number of ways, for a number of reasons. Cats are more territorial than dogs by nature, and they can also be more solitary. Territorial behavior in cats usually involves urine marking (spraying), hissing, stalking, or attacking another cat.
Territorial behavior can be more serious in cats than in dogs because cats see their territory differently, often viewing newcomers as invaders or intruders, whether it’s a new cat in the household or neighborhood cats outside. Cats are also a little pickier — your cat may tolerate one cat but not another. Intact male cats can be particularly territorial, so it’s important to spay and neuter pet cats.
Even friendly, social kittens may become territorial when they mature. To avoid this, it’s best to socialize your kitten from 3–12 weeks of age by getting her used to a variety of situations, even those outside the home, such as going to the vet or groomer.
If your cat displays sudden signs of territorial aggression, especially out-of-box elimination, consider a visit to your veterinarian to rule out any health issues which may be causing the behavior. Spay or neuter any intact pets in your home. This alone can go a long way toward eliminating aggression. One intact pet can end up affecting all the pets in your household.
Definitely don’t let your cat fight other cats. Unlike dogs who are sometimes able to work things out, the more cats fight, the worse the problem can become. Squirt fighting cats with water or use a whistle to distract them. Never try to pull them apart or you may get hurt, and never punish them for territorial behavior or they may become more aggressive. If the problem is ongoing, you may need to separate the cats while you work out the problem with professional help.
Adding a new cat to a household can take a lot more time than adding a new dog. The cats need to be kept separate for a period. You can switch the new and resident cats’ bedding so they can smell each other, and let them sniff under doorways or with the new cat in a carrier.
Friendly social cats will probably be more accepting of each other while more independent cats or those who have been the only cat in the household may take quite a while. Sometimes it just doesn’t work out and the cats have to live separately, but it’s often worth the effort to try.

Getting Professional Help

Effectively helping a territorial cat become calmer and more social depends on the owner, the cat, and the situation. Early socialization and positive reinforcement to reward desirable behavior can go a long way toward developing a well behaved cat.
Adult cats with territorial issues should be taken seriously as these behaviors can turn to aggression. If you have trouble resolving your cat's issues on your own, seek advice from a professional trainer or behaviorist. They can often help get things back on track for you and your cat — so you can both live together in a happier home.

Baca selengkapnya

Traveling with Cats: Great Cat-Friendly Destinations for Summer

Komentar


So you want to get away from it all this summer, but you don’t want to leave your cat behind. The good news is — with more and more places becoming pet-friendly — you can take a relaxing break and bring your cat along, too! We have several ideas that could make summer travel a ton of fun for both of you.

Preparing for Your Trip

Before you go anywhere, make sure your cat's shots are up to date, and that she fits comfortably inside her carrier. Bring a towel in case your cat gets wet or muddy. Don't forget medications, a portable litter box, litter, food, special treats, grooming tools, and comfort items such as a favorite blanket or bed.
Finally, do a search for “cat-friendly” hotels, restaurants, attractions, etc., for the destinations you’re considering. Learn what kind of accommodations they provide as well.

Cat-Friendly Cities

Traveling with your cat is better than ever now that cities are more pet-friendly. Many cities feature pet-friendly parks, boutiques and retail stores dedicated to pets, as well as pet-friendly amenities and accommodations. Some popular locations are Colorado Springs, Albuquerque, Austin, and Orlando.
If you need a night out on the town for yourself or want to go somewhere cats aren’t allowed, a pet sitter can make sure your cat is having a lovely time, too.

Road Trip!

Ready to take that road trip you’ve always dreamed of? Map your journey ahead of time and draw up a list of all of the places near your route that you could enjoy with your cat. Call ahead to hotels, parks, beaches and roadside attractions to make sure cats are welcome.

Cat-Friendly Hotels

There are several hotel chains that are cat-friendly: La Quinta, Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn, Clarion, Comfort Inn, EconoLodge, Motel 6, and Red Roof Inn, to name a few. Not every hotel in every chain is cat-friendly, so call ahead.

Cat-Friendly Cruises

There is at least one major cruise line that accommodates cats, Cunard, on all rips between New York and Southampton, England, on the Queen Mary II. The ship’s kennel master feeds the cats and keeps the kennels clean. Every animal guest receives a gift pack that includes toys, a food dish, a name tag, and more.
You're allowed to spend plenty of time with your cat during visiting hours, but she can't sleep with you or spend time with you outside of designated pet areas. Important Cunard tips: Call far enough ahead of time to make sure your cat gets a spot in the kennel, because space is limited. You'll need to meet all pet travel requirements and obtain a pet passport, too.
Wherever you choose to travel with your cat this summer, a little planning ahead of time will ensure a fun and safe summer vacation for you and your cat.
Baca selengkapnya

10 Fascinating Facts About Cats

Komentar


Learn More About Your Cat.
  1. In terms of development, the first year of a cat’s life is equal to the first 15 years of a human life. After its second year, a cat is 25 in human years. And after that, each year of a cat’s life is equal to about 7 human years.
  2. Cats can rotate their ears 180 degrees.
  3. The hearing of the average cat is at least five times keener than that of a human adult.
  4. In the largest cat breed, the average male weighs approximately 20 pounds.
  5. Domestic cats spend about 70 percent of the day sleeping. And 15 percent of the day grooming.
  6. A cat cannot see directly under its nose.
  7. Most cats have no eyelashes.
  8. Cats have five toes on each front paw, but only four on the back ones. It’s not uncommon, though, for cats to have extra toes. The cat with the most toes known had 32—eight on each paw!
  9. Some believe that if you dream about a white cat, good luck will follow.
  10. Meows are not innate cat language—they developed them to communicate with humans!

Baca selengkapnya

What to Expect When You're Expecting Kittens

Komentar


Help your cat during her pregnancy.

Your pregnant cat will benefit from your care to have a safe, healthy pregnancy. Plan to provide her with support before the kittens arrive, then prepare to give her plenty of family time after they’re born. Here’s what you can do to help your cat during her pregnancy:

Visit the vet

Make an appointment with the vet to confirm your cat is pregnant. During the appointment, her overall health will be assessed and you’ll be provided with a due date. If there are any unrelated conditions to treat—like fleas or ear mites—those should be addressed as well. Discuss the plan of care with your vet and proceed with any needed medications or vaccinations that are safe during pregnancy.

Adapt her diet

Don’t make any initial changes without your vet’s input—overfeeding or underfeeding your cat can make her pregnancy more difficult. Consult with your vet during the first visit to create an appropriate feeding plan and adapt your cat’s diet accordingly. Your vet may suggest mixing in some higher-calorie kitten food with your cat’s regular food at this time—she’ll need the calories to produce milk.

Lower the litterbox, raise the cleanliness

If your cat's litterbox has high sides or a narrow entrance, consider replacing it. Choose a low, wide pan that’s more accommodating of her ever-expanding belly. To help keep her healthy, clean the litter at least twice a day and wash the box once a week.

Monitor her behavior

Your cat won't act differently for the first few weeks of her pregnancy. Soon, however, she'll sleep more. And she may sleep so much that she’ll forego meals. You can help encourage her to eat by waking her at feeding time or showing her the food and water in the bowls to help remind her. As delivery nears, you may notice that she is frequently licking her teats—this is normal. When the teats fill with milk they can become uncomfortable, and her licking is a soothing act that helps to ease the pressure.

Delivery dos and don'ts

Don't ever press on your cat's pregnant belly. Do prepare a place for her to give birth—a large cardboard box with low sides is a great choice—and put it in a quiet room.
When your cat goes into labor, she'll pant and pace. If she's not in her box, do try gently placing her there. Allow at least four hours for all of the kittens to be born. If more than eight hours pass and she’s still straining, do call the vet.
After the kittens are born, let the mother cat take care of them. Don't handle them yourself. Do give the cat and her new kittens plenty of alone time in their first week together. And don’t worry—you’ll get plenty of time with the kittens after that!


Baca selengkapnya
Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)