Pets

Five essential things to pick up at the pet store when adopting a kitten

For those who are thinking of adding a new four-legged companion to their life, it is certainly an exciting time. However, it is also a great decision to add a pet to the house. Having the right supplies on hand will ease the transition for both the owner and the kitten. 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 kind of food to eat. Just as it is inappropriate to give a newborn baby a steak, there are some things in adult cat food that kittens are not ready to digest. Kitten food also has the right vitamins, a balance of fat and protein, and the necessary nutrients to help a kitten get on the right path for development.

Flea prevention

It is especially important to purchase flea prevention from the pet store if the kitten is being introduced to an environment with adult cats. Even if the new addition doesn’t spend time outside, if the adult housemates come and go, they are bringing all the pesky critters with them. Younger felines may not have the proper antibodies and immune systems to fight the diseases that accompany fleas and ticks, so it is important to stock up on medications that can prevent fleas from attacking in the first place.

A place to hide

The first instinct of many new homeowners when adopting is to get beds or gyms in the jungle. While these are certainly beneficial, it is important to consider the nature of cats. They are semi-social creatures, but they often demand a lot of alone time, and moving a pound or shelter to a new home can be particularly traumatic. Getting a specific hiding place, such as a covered bed with a small entrance or even a small box with a hole, can protect the kitten from overstimulation. You can also prevent them from getting lost in the house. When looking for 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 kitten can be a lot of fun, hassles 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 screens will shrink over time, but it’s a good idea to have a quality carpet stain cleaner on hand in the meantime.

Toys

Toys may not seem like a necessity, but with a young cat, they very well can be. Playing is a great way to release unwanted anxiety and aggression and to achieve healthy levels of exercise. Obtaining designated toys at your local pet store will also prevent kitties from playing with harmful objects, such as a loose string that could get stuck in the throat. Most importantly, playing with toys can provide time for an owner to bond with their new friend!

These five elements will keep the new felines stimulated and safe as they begin to feel at home in their new surroundings.

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