Teaching Your Kitten Manners

October 15, 2020

Have you recently adopted a kitten? If so, you’re in for some adorable moments over the next few months. Baby cats are almost impossibly cute. Getting a kitten isn’t all purrs and cuddles, though. You’ll need to teach little Fluffy the do’s and don’ts of being a good cat! A local Plano, TX vet offers some tips on this below.

Discourage Rough Play

Kittens are very frisky and playful. They’re also very interested in sorting out how all those claws and teeth work. Your pint-sized lion may try to practice on you. This is cute, but at the end of the day, it’s a bad petiquette. Nip this habit in the bud!

Socialization

Socialization is very important for little Fluffy. No matter how much attention you lavish on your kitty, she’ll still benefit from meeting new people. Invite friends and family over to meet your new furball.

Provide Toys

If you don’t want your pet to use you as a cat toy, then you’ll need to provide her with some of her own. Play sessions will also help your kitty burn off some of her zing. Just be sure to put wand toys away after use. You don’t want your tiny buddy getting tangled up!

Avoid Punishment

Baby cats are just as mischievous as they are cute. Sooner or later, your little ball of fur will do something she shouldn’t. She may bite or scratch you, or knock something off a counter. Don’t punish her: this may just frighten your pet, and make her wary of you. When little Fluffy misbehaves, tell her ‘No’ or ‘Be good’ or something similar in a firm tone of voice. You can also clap your hands or stamp your foot to get the point across.

Keep The Motor Going

Did you know that cats often think of their owners as their parents? Our feline friends get very attached to us! However, in order for that special bond to grow, your furry buddy must feel loved and safe. Pay lots of attention to little Fluffy! Talk to her, pet her, and play with her. Be prepared to act as kitty furniture quite a bit as well. Kittens love to sleep on their humans, as it makes them feel secure. Please reach out to us, your Plano, TX vet clinic, for all of your pet’s veterinary care needs. We’re here for you!