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Kittens make adorable additions to the family. If given proper care, they will remain friendly and affectionate well into adulthood. To raise a happy and healthy kitten, here are the top veterinarian-approved do’s and don’ts of kitten care.

Do:

Kitten-proof your house.

Before you bring a kitten home, make sure the space is secure. Kittens are curious and can get into all sorts of precarious situations. Cover up or hide exposed wires and cords, and keep poisonous plants out of reach or find non-toxic replacements. Close doors and block off sections of the house with dangerous materials like cleaning products and antifreeze.

Spay or neuter.

Kittens can be fixed by a veterinarian at as young as 8 weeks old. Not only will spaying and neutering prevent unexpected litters but also protect your pet against uterine infections, breast tumors, testicular cancer, and prostate problems. Sterilized pets are also less likely to display hormone-driven behaviors like spraying, roaming, and aggression.

Keep up with preventative care.

veterinarianAs soon as you bring a kitten into your life, take them to a veterinary clinic. Your veterinarian will complete a pet health exam, set up a vaccination schedule, administer parasite control, and begin dental care. Ongoing preventative care will ensure your cat lives a long and healthy life.

Don’t:

Feed them human food.

Never give your cat human food, especially scraps from the dinner table. Kitten food is specially formulated for a developing feline, while many human foods are dangerous for cats. Even relatively safe foods can lead to stomach upset and diarrhea. Stay on the safe side and stick to kitten food, then cat food as your pet reaches adulthood.

Assume cats are antisocial.

Many pet owners make the mistake of thinking mature cats are antisocial by nature. If you expose your kitten to other people, pets, environments, and handling while they’re still young, they will be much more accepting as they grow. Socialize your kitten with as many experiences as possible.

Leave them outside.

The outdoors can be a dangerous place for kittens. Until they’re fully vaccinated, microchipped, and treated for parasites, kittens should stay inside.

Even when they’re ready to venture out, don’t let them go off unsupervised. Cars, wild animals, and outdoor pets pose a threat to your kitten, so keep them in an enclosed space or lead them on a leash.

 

If you’re welcoming a new kitten into your home, bring them to Kokua Pet Clinic for comprehensive veterinary care. Located in Honolulu and serving families throughout Hawaii since 2000, they offer comprehensive preventative care, treatments, and surgical procedures. Their staff is eager to help new pet parents make the right decisions about all aspects of pet care, from nutrition to behavioral issues. For more information about their services, visit them online. Call (808) 843-8382 to set up an appointment with a licensed veterinarian.

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