Your New Kitty!
So you've decided to welcome a new kitty into your home! Sometimes it seems that everywhere you look there are free kittens available for adoption - at a shelter, from a friend or neighbor, an ad in the newspaper, etc. If you choose to take advantage of one of these opportunities, or if you choose to buy a kitten, it can be a wonderful experience for you and your new cat for many years to come. However, before you welcome a new friend into your home, you should make some preparations so you can thoroughly enjoy the benefits of cat ownership.
Before you bring a new cat into your life, you must prepare your home for the arrival of your kitty. Be sure that all potentially toxic and dangerous objects in your home are not available for your cat to get into - you must kitty-proof your home! To best accomplish this goal you should put yourself in your cat's shoes. Kittens are very curious and like to curl up in small dark corners. For instance, see if your cat is able to squeeze into the space behind your refrigerator or bookshelves. Another danger is electrical cords. If a cat chews on a cord, it may result in electrical shock and lead to a veterinary emergency. It is a good idea to keep all cords out of reach, and if that's not possible you can buy a "cord-container" to protect both your cat and the cords. Do not leave small objects such as string, yarn or needles lying around, because cats love to play with these and can become injured.
You will need to buy at least one litter box. It should be large enough for your cat to sit comfortably and turn around in. Some people recommend that you have one more litter box than number of cats so there will always be a clean box available. Place the litter box in an area that is convenient for you but easily accessible for your cat. Many people set up their litter boxes in the bathroom, laundry room, or basement. You can even put it in a little used closet and install a kitty-door so your cat can have some privacy! Another important item is a cat carrier. You should bring this with you when you go to pick up your cat. Some cats do not travel well in cars, so containing your cat in a carrier makes it easier for everyone. You will also need a food and water dish; there are numerous varieties available to try. There are also numerous toys you can buy for your cat; get some so you can start out having fun when you bring your kitty home! If you really want to spoil her, you can buy her a bed or there are hundreds of other goodies out there! Have fun!
When selecting your kitten, take the time to make sure that you are selecting the right kitty for you. Spend time playing with your potential kitten and evaluating her personality. If this cat seems more or less playful or friendly than what you are looking for, keep looking. It is very important to get matched up with a kitten who will fit in with your household and lifestyle, in order to complement your life rather than complicate it. It is also important to pick out a healthy cat. A cat who is about the same size and weight as the other kittens her age, and has a healthy looking coat and eyes is probably a safe bet for health. Eventually, you will settle on a kitten that is friendly and playful enough for you, as well as being the cutest cat available (of course all kitties are adorable!)
Once you get your kitty home, it is probably best to confine the cat to a single room that has been completely "kitty-proofed," until your kitty is calm and comfortable in her new surroundings. Then you can begin to introduce her to all of the family members and any other pets you may have. Do this quietly and individually, so your new kitty is not overwhelmed on her first day! You may want to confine her to this "safe room" when you are not home for the first few days, until she has adjusted. Then when you feel comfortable that both your home and your new kitty will be safe, she can be free to explore the house.
It is relatively easy to train your cat to use a litter box. Often, you just need to show them where it is and they will figure it out! You can show your cat where the box is by placing her inside the box. If she doesn't understand, take a stool she had and place it in the box. Then place your cat in the box and scratch her paw in the litter. She should understand in no time!
Having a cat is a great responsibility but also a great joy. Bringing home a new kitty is one of life's most rewarding occasions. If you take the proper steps to be prepared when your kitty comes home, she will have a smooth arrival and you will have a harmonious relationship for years to come!