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A Complete Guide to Taking Care of Kittens

Mayuri Kulkarni
Kittens are undoubtedly the most endearing among various pets that one would like to have at home. However, there is a whole lot of responsibility that comes with these cute, little creatures.
Newborn kittens are everybody's center of attention. As they are not capable of protecting themselves, it's necessary to take good care of them. They are prone to a number of infections as well.
In short, they are completely dependent and hence, need to be nurtured in a proper manner, until they transform into healthy cats. Right from feeding to socializing, there are a lot of things one should know when it comes to kitten care.

How to Take Care of Kittens
If you have a cat at home that just gave birth to kittens, you don't have to worry, as the cat will take good care of her babies. It is always good to leave the kittens with their mother in the initial period. On the other hand, if you have adopted just one kitten from the pet store, you need to pay attention to its needs and protect it.
The kitten should be given time to adjust itself to the environment at your house. If you have other pets at home, it is better you don't introduce the kitten to them in the initial period. Always keep an eye on its activities. Never let it wander outside alone. Other pets, like dogs and older cats, can harm it, since it is unknown to them initially.
If you have small children at home, they will want to play with it. While your children will enjoy your new pet, the kitten is more likely to get frightened by this. Thus, whenever you bring home a new kitten, the first thing you need to do is, let the kitten adjust in the new surrounding.

Food

Kittens should always be given food in accordance to their nutritional requirements. In fact, food that is specifically formulated for kittens is your best bet. Their food should be rich in calcium and proteins.
The quantity you feed is also important, since their tummies are small. See that you do not overfeed them. Instead, you should feed them after regular intervals. Dry or canned food, or a combination of both is a good food for these kitties. Start with dry food in the initial period and gradually shift to canned food.
Ensure that you do not feed it food that is meant for adult cats, as it is not designed for them. Similarly, many people feed dog food to kittens, which is not recommended at all. If you have any doubt, you should visit a pet store or consult a vet and get detailed information on what you should be feeding your pet kitten.

Training

You should use small litterbox for your kitten. See that the height of the litterbox is not too much; else the kitten won't be able to climb in easily. Use litter that may not create any health problems to them.
Usually kittens have the habit of gulping the litter confusing it for food. Use natural litter and always keep an eye on the kitten when it is in the litter box.
When kittens start walking they will explore your whole house. They love to play and hence, you should spend ample time playing with them. Playing will also help them in socializing. Give them soft balls and other such toys to play with.
Along with playing, you should also add some lessons in obedience for your kitten; teach it not to bite or scratch.
Kittens lick themselves and hence, are clean. Still you can use a soft damp cloth to clean them thoroughly. Usually kittens do not require regular bathing, unless they get too dirty.

Health

Health is an important concern as the immunity of kittens is not at par with that of adult cats. There are vaccines available though. As your kitten grows, you will have to vaccinate it for distemper and rabies.
The first vaccine is to prevent various infections that can affect its health. The vaccine for rabies should be given when the kitten is of 3 - 4 months old. Always keep the contact number of the nearby veterinarian, you may need it in case of emergency. Contact him as soon as you notice any health problem in your kitten.
Raising kittens is fun. Your children will develop responsibility while taking care of them. Treat them as if they were your babies and you will have a wonderful experience raising them.