For those thinking of adding a new four-legged companion to their life, it is certainly an exciting time. However, it’s also a big decision to add a pet to the household. Having the right supplies on hand will make the transition easier for both owner and kitty. Here are the five most critical items to stock up on.
Kitten Food
Of course, a new cat needs food, but there are some important differences between what types of food to grab. Just like how it’s improper to give a newborn baby a steak, there are some things in adult cat food that kittens aren’t ready to digest. Kitten food also has the proper vitamins, a balance of fat and protein, and nutrients needed to help a kitten get on the right track for development.
Flea Prevention
It’s especially important to grab flea prevention from the pet store if the kitten is being introduced to an environment with adult cats. Even if the new addition isn’t spending time outside, if adult housemates are going in and out, they’re bringing all of the pesky bugs in with them. Younger felines might not have the proper antibodies and immune systems to fight off the diseases that come along with fleas and ticks, so it’s important to be stocked up on medication that can prevent fleas from attacking in the first place.
A Place to Hide
Many new owners’ first instincts when adopting are to get beds or jungle gyms. While these are certainly beneficial, it’s important to consider the nature of cats. They are semi-social creatures, but often demand a great deal of alone time, and the adjustment from a pound or shelter to a new home can be particularly traumatic. Getting a specific hiding place, such as covered bed with a small entrance or even a small box with a hole in it, can protect the kitty from being over stimulated. It can also prevent them from getting lost in the house. By grabbing a place to hide from the pet store, it’s easy to guess where they are when they’re not playing.
Carpet Stain Cleaner
The unfortunate truth is that while adopting a kitty can be great fun, messes and accidents come with the territory. Felines often urinate as a sign of anxiety or stress, both of which can come from a new environment. Male kittens, even when neutered, often spray as a way to mark their territory. Owners who already have pets and are adding a kitten to the mix may even find that their adult cats are urinating out of the litter box as a result of the new member. Most of these displays will be reduced with time, but it’s a good idea to have some quality carpet stain cleaner on hand in the meantime.
Toys
Toys may not seem like a necessity, but with a cat of a young age, they very well may be. Playing is a great way to release unwanted anxiety and aggression and to get in healthy levels of exercise. Getting designated toys from the local pet store will also prevent kittens from playing with harmful objects, such as a loose string that could get lodged in their throats. Most importantly, playing with toys can provide time for an owner to bond with their new friend!
These five items will keep new felines stimulated and safe as they start to feel at home in their new environments.
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