Settling In

When you get home, let your kitten find it’s own way out of the basket or box, and allow it to explore one room at a time. Make sure it knows where it’s litter tray and water bowl are. (The toilet and feeding areas should not be too close together.)

Make sure the room is escape-proof – chimneys blocked, doors and windows shut. Kittens can get through surprisingly small gaps.

Kittens are often frightened by children and other pets. Children should understand that they must keep very still and quiet (very small children should not be introduced until the kitten has had a chance to settle). Other animals should be introduced later, one at a time, and under supervision.

Do not overwhelm your kitten with too much attention. Let it come to you naturally - remember you are a stranger to it. Talk to it, and encourage it to play with a toy (cotton reels and ping-pong balls are favourites). Do not restrain your kitten and force it to sit on your knee. Your lap should be a haven, not a prison. Patience with your kitten in the first few hours will be amply rewarded.

For further information on caring for a new kitten, please see the following websites;

http://www.gccfcats.org/buying.html