Common Mistakes New Cat “Parents” Make

August 1, 2016

So you’ve decided you want to add a feline companion to your home. Awesome! Cats make wonderful pets, but if this is your first feline friend, read over these common mistakes new cat ‘'”parents” make so you can start your relationship off on the right “paw.”

Looks VS Personality

Humans are very visual creatures, so we may be tempted to pick a cat or kitten based on its looks. Although, this method can turn out just fine, experts recommend spending some time with your potential feline friend to get to know its true nature. After all, if you’re looking for a cuddle-companion and that striking kitten is going to be a bundle-of-energy, it won’t matter down the road if it has blue eyes or green, you will most likely be disappointed.

Young Kittens

It’s hard to resist those tiny bundles of fur, but unfortunately kittens under the age of 8 weeks should not be separated from their mothers. Very young kittens need to learn important social skills they can only get from Mom and their siblings. In addition, 4 or 5 week-old kittens need to be weaned properly and slowly introduced to different stages of feeding. Plus, oftentimes young kittens that have been yanked away from Mom too soon can develop health issues. If you see an ad for extremely young kittens for sale, avoid the temptation and look for one that is age-appropriate to adopt.

Cat Introductions

Cats are like potato chips…you can’t have just one. However, unless you get two cats from the same litter or have known each other, introducing cats to one-another needs to be done slowly and properly to avoid confrontations. Keeping the new cat separated in another room with a large puppy gate or cardboard is a good start to easing the tension your resident cat will be feeling. Have patience and let your felines come to each other on their own terms. Rushing introductions or letting them “work things out” is NEVER a wise choice. This could result in injury and a long-term feud between the two cats.

Yearly Vet Check Ups

Yes, vets can be expensive, but it’s your duty as a dedicated pet parent to make sure your cat gets it annual vaccinations and check up, as well a being spayed or neutered. Bringing your cat to the vet can prevent many diseases from starting or catch them in their early stages.

Be Prepared

We should all enter into pet parenting knowing that we are going to have this animal for the duration of its lifetime. Cats are a privilege to have, NOT a right, so lets do the best we can for our furry friends. This includes being prepared with the above tips in mind, as well as feeding them a good quality food and providing them with a safe home and most of all, plenty of love.