Have you finally decided to grow the family with a little kitten? You have a wonderful time ahead of you, with lots of mischief and play. To make the preparations easier and turn it into something really exciting and fun to look forward to, we answer the 7 most common questions about kittens.
1. What do I need for the kitten?
You need a few basic things at home for the kitten to thrive. Food and water bowls, a litter box, cat litter and something to scratch on are a good start. You of course also need a good kitten food, treats and toys.
2. How do I make my home safe?
Kitten-proof your home by removing small objects that the kitten could chew on, get tangled in or swallow. Kittens are skilled climbers and can reach just about everywhere, even high up. Also keep in mind that many house plants can be toxic to cats, so check whether the ones you have at home are harmless.
3. How much should a kitten eat?
For your kitten to keep a good body condition and grow as it should, it is important that it gets nutritious food adapted for kittens. Our kitten food is a complete and balanced food, which means it contains all the nutrients the kitten needs, and at the right levels for growth.
On the packaging there is a feeding recommendation for how much is right per day, adapted to the kitten's age in months. Cats like to eat small portions spread over the day, and it is therefore good to divide the food into many small meals, or to feed in a toy so that the cat is activated and has to work a little to get the food.
4. When do kittens learn to use the litter box?
Most cats naturally want to use their litter box, but it helps if you give the right conditions for the box to feel like the best place to do their business. Place it in a spot that is calm and secluded, preferably in a corner, but easily accessible for your cat.
If the cat naturally chooses another spot, move the litter box there instead. It is good to have several litter boxes so that the kitten can choose where it wants to go. Use plenty of litter in the box and keep it clean and fresh. Praise the cat when it has used the box!
5. When should kittens be vaccinated?
A kitten should be vaccinated with two injections, about 4 weeks apart. If your kitten has been vaccinated, you should have received a vaccination card that states when the cat should be vaccinated next. If you are unsure when or whether your cat has been vaccinated, contact your veterinarian to book an appointment for vaccination.
6. How much does a kitten sleep?
Sleep is an incredibly large part of both the adult cat's and the kitten's life. Even though kittens can get incredible bursts of energy and crackle with energy, they still sleep around 18-20 hours a day. That is why it is important that the kitten has a safe and secluded sleeping spot, where it can withdraw when it wants to be alone and sleep. To read more about this you can take a look at our article about the cat's sleep.
7. When can you let a kitten outside?
If your kitten is going to become an outdoor cat, you should wait until it is neutered before it is allowed to go out on its own. This is to avoid unwanted kittens, and it applies of course to both male and female cats. Before the kitten is neutered, it can be outside under careful supervision, or on a lead, to get used to the outdoor environment. Even an indoor cat can start training on a lead and harness as a kitten. Remember that everything new should always be done gradually and positively, with lots of praise and reward!
8. One final tip ...
Cats are wonderful and special animals. Take the time to get to know your cat and discover what it likes best - cats can be very picky about which sleeping spots, toilet corners, food, food bowls or routines they prefer. They are loving animals that love closeness and cuddles, but can also need their own time and their own space - respect and love your cat based on the personality it has!