Buying a pet of any type is a really exciting time, as it should be. You will have been busy buying the essentials and few extra bits so you have them ready. You also need to stop and think about the long term costs and commitments that also come with buying a kitten and any pet. Cats can live for over 10 years so your new pet might be around for quite a while. So here are my things to consider when looking to buy a Kitten.
Have you got time for a kitten ?
Kittens can take up quite a bit of a time, especially when you first get them so make sure that you have the time to spend with them. The level of time they require will change throughout their lives, which can be many years. If you feel that in a few months you may have less time, maybe buying a kitten right now is not the right time. Buying or adopting a kitten or cat is a long term commitment.
Kittens will also require medical treatment in their first year. Make sure you do your homework as to what is required and the cost in advance.
You will also need to factor in the cost of buying essentials that your kitten will need. Items such as litter trays, toys, scratch post as well as the ongoing cost of food. Make sure you have all the items ready before you collect your kitten. Having all these ready will help your kitten settle in quicker. Keeping your kitten healthy and stimulated is important.
Is your home kitten proof?
Kittens love to climb, hide and explore so make sure that your home is kitten safe. Take a walk around your home and look for any potential areas that could be a hazard to your new kitten. I have listed a few below:
Toxic house plants
some popular plants such as lilies can be harmful to cats so it would be recommended to move these before getting your kitten.
Gaps under and around furniture
kittens love to hide so try to make safe any areas that you might identify as a potential for your kitten to hide under, behind or around.
Food
Some foods can be harmful to kittens and cats. Make sure when you are preparing food you don’t allow your kitten to be stealing food. If you stick to kitten food you won’t go wrong.
Fires and cooking
Cats and kittens like you jump and climb so make sure if you have an open fire you have a grill covering the fire. Also whilst you are cooking make sure you can prevent your kitten from getting near the hob. These measures will keep you kitten safe from burns.
Toilets
Toilets pose a risk to kittens as they can fall in the toilet and become stuck. To prevent this from happening simply close the toilet lid.
Kitchen Bins
Bins can allow kittens access to food they are not supposed to be eating! keep kitchen bin lids closed. Also if your bin bag has a handle make sure these can not get caught around your kittens neck.
Electrical wires
kittens have a tendency to chew things so make sure that any loose wires and cables are covered with cable covers or tucked away.
Small toys
Still on the chewing theme make sure you pick up any small toys or objects as your kitten could choke on these.
Other items you will need for your new kitten
Cat carry basket
Make sure when you are choosing a cat carrying basket you chose one that will be large enough for you kitten but also when your kitten grows into an adult cat.
Bedding
Your new kitten may be happy to come and sleep on the sofa with you and also on your bed at night, it is still advisable to get your kitten a bed of its own. This could be in the form of a radiator bed or simply a box with blankets in.
Food and water bowls
Cats will need food bowls and separate water bowls. The best type of bowls to buy are porcelain, glass and stainless steel bowls. It is advised that you keep the food bowl and the water bowls in separate locations. This will prevent the water becoming contaminated with ant food that is on the kittens fur.
Litter tray and litter
It is advised to litter train your kitten as soon as possible. This will help avoid accidents and smells around your home. Buying a scoop will be handy to scoop out poops.
Toys
Your new kitten will be very playful and full of life. Make sure you have plenty of toys to stimulate your kitten. Kittens like toys that they can pounce on and catch. Toys for kitten don’t need to be super expensive. kittens are really fond of hiding too so cardboard boxes will be great for cats to hide in and climb on.
Scratching Post
Scratching posts are great to have so that your cat can have a good scratch. This will also save your carpets and furniture.
Grooming
You may wish to invest in a cat brush so that you can groom your kitten, especially if its long haired.
Collar and tag
It is advisable to get your kitten a collar and tag so when your kitten is out it can be identified. It is also advisable to get them chipped in case they get lost or go missing.
Kitten Food
When you collect your new kitten it is important to keep your kitten on the same food as the breeder. You can gradually transition to different food if you wish. Changing food suddenly could cause your kitten to have an upset tummy. You might also wish to buy a mat to place under your food and water bowls. This will stop them moving about and also catch any spillages.
Other things you need to consider
Insurance
Pet insurance can be really important to cover any accidents or sudden illnesses. By paying a yearly fee it can offer you protection against the ongoing cost of medical bills and medication if needed. It is a sensible choice to consider taking out pet insurance as it is often far cheaper than paying the vets bills.
Holiday Accommodation
Who is going to look after you cat or kitten when you go away on holiday? Pet sitters are an option and are often seen advertising locally. Family may be able to step in and help. If you have no other option then you may have to look at putting you cat or kitten in the cattery for the duration of your holiday. This can be quite costly. Also the cattery may have requirements such as you kitten or cat must be fully vaccinated so make sure this is something that you look into before buying your kitten.
To help you when looking to buy or adopting a kitten it might help you to check out the kitten checklist. This will provide you with tips, advice and questions to ask the breeder before obtaining your kitten.
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