Adding a pet to the household may be fun and exciting, but it also requires some advanced planning. If you want to adopt a kitten or cat, there are steps you can take before bringing them home to ease the transition for everyone. Below, the friendly veterinarians from Crescent Springs Animal Hospital in Kenton County, KY, share a few tips for welcoming a feline into your home:

Preparing for a New Cat: 3 Tips From Your Local Veterinarian

1. Stock Up on Food

If you’re giving a kitten their forever home, purchase plenty of canned food or dry kibble before picking them up. You can’t gauge how large of an appetite they’ll have and running out of food when the store has already closed is not an option. An experienced veterinarian can recommend brands to ensure kittens grow up strong and healthy.

When adopting older cats, get a bag of the food you plan to feed them in addition to what they are currently eating. Switching abruptly from one brand to another can cause gastrointestinal issues, so introduce the new grub gradually over a period of several weeks. 

2. Place Cat Beds Around the House

Some cats are as social as dogs, while others like peace and quiet. Put a bed in a quiet part of the house so kitty has a place to retire to when things are hectic, but place another in the family room for when they want to cuddle up with you and the kids.

3. Make a Vet Appointment

You should bring a new cat to the vet as soon as possible, especially if there’re already other animals living in the house. Even if the cat is up-to-date on all its vaccinations, it’s wise to establish a relationship with a local veterinarian and confirm your new feline is healthy.

If you just adopted a new cat or kitten and you need a veterinarian that provides comprehensive care in Kenton County, KY, turn to Crescent Springs Animal Hospital. You can learn more about the services this cat hospital offers by visiting their website. To make an appointment for your new family member, call (859) 331-6608.