So you want to give a Kitten for Christmas (Guide)
Posted: Thu Dec 22, 2016 12:55 am
Christmas is the most popular time of year to buy our furry friends. It's a good present for families, couples and the elderly.*
But are you making the right choice by getting one of these bundles of fluff for a fellow relation or friend?
First things first. Although Youtube would say otherwise most people don't like big surprises sprung on them. Many people find keeping a cat, especially a young kitten, extremely difficult when coupled with their work schedule. To end to that I would say:
Don't give the kitten as a present on Christmas day.
The noise and busy atmosphere of the holidays may frighten the kitten at a time in their life when they may be least able to deal with it. Baby animals go through a natural "fear period," which occurs between 7-12 weeks of age, the time when a kitten is usually handed over to new owners. After the trauma of being taken away from mother and littermates, the hectic holidays may be too much and may even shape the personality of the new kitten permanently.
In waiting before giving a pet, you may avoid the "new toy" syndrome. The kitten is less likely to be tossed aside amongst the other gifts.
Saving the thrill of a new pet until after the holidays means that the whole family will be involved in the responsibility a "new baby" brings.
Successful housetraining needs a regular schedule. Most of us cannot provide this needed routine during the hustle and bustle of the holidays. And don't forget that you'll probably have guests coming in and out and you won't want (or have time) to clean up the little messes that come with having a new kitten around.
When should I give a Kitten if not on Christmas day?
If you have your heart set on giving a pet and watching your relations/friends face light up, consider an after holiday pet. And, rather than offering the recipient a confused, frightened kitten, follow these guidelines:
Step 1
Wrap up a photo of the new kitten. The breeder or local rescues will normally be happy to let you take one. A special bonus: they'll be satisfied that you're a responsible pet owner!
Step 2
Make up a special kitten pet pack which could include:
Size-appropriate food and water dishes
Books on caring for cats
Grooming supplies - brushes or combs appropriate for the breed
A toothbrush and toothpaste - it's never too early to get the kitten started with good dental hygiene
Ear Clens® Pads - gentle on pet's ears
Low profile litter box with litter for kittens
Scratching post so you can train kitten to scratch early
Interactive toy (like Da Bird Cat Toy) and small, cat-appropriate toys
Collar and cat carrier for trips to the veterinarian
A warm, cosy place to sleep
Remember that anticipation, after all, is half the fun of a gift!
*Remember that not everyone is equipped or able to take care of a pet. If they refuse or you feel you made a misjudgement then make sure you notify the rescue centre or pet store you have reserved the pet from to ensure they have another prospect of a good owner.
If you feel in any mind that the person you are giving this kitten to is not able to deal with such responsibility then please consider another present this Christmas.
But are you making the right choice by getting one of these bundles of fluff for a fellow relation or friend?
First things first. Although Youtube would say otherwise most people don't like big surprises sprung on them. Many people find keeping a cat, especially a young kitten, extremely difficult when coupled with their work schedule. To end to that I would say:
Don't give the kitten as a present on Christmas day.
The noise and busy atmosphere of the holidays may frighten the kitten at a time in their life when they may be least able to deal with it. Baby animals go through a natural "fear period," which occurs between 7-12 weeks of age, the time when a kitten is usually handed over to new owners. After the trauma of being taken away from mother and littermates, the hectic holidays may be too much and may even shape the personality of the new kitten permanently.
In waiting before giving a pet, you may avoid the "new toy" syndrome. The kitten is less likely to be tossed aside amongst the other gifts.
Saving the thrill of a new pet until after the holidays means that the whole family will be involved in the responsibility a "new baby" brings.
Successful housetraining needs a regular schedule. Most of us cannot provide this needed routine during the hustle and bustle of the holidays. And don't forget that you'll probably have guests coming in and out and you won't want (or have time) to clean up the little messes that come with having a new kitten around.
When should I give a Kitten if not on Christmas day?
If you have your heart set on giving a pet and watching your relations/friends face light up, consider an after holiday pet. And, rather than offering the recipient a confused, frightened kitten, follow these guidelines:
Step 1
Wrap up a photo of the new kitten. The breeder or local rescues will normally be happy to let you take one. A special bonus: they'll be satisfied that you're a responsible pet owner!
Step 2
Make up a special kitten pet pack which could include:
Size-appropriate food and water dishes
Books on caring for cats
Grooming supplies - brushes or combs appropriate for the breed
A toothbrush and toothpaste - it's never too early to get the kitten started with good dental hygiene
Ear Clens® Pads - gentle on pet's ears
Low profile litter box with litter for kittens
Scratching post so you can train kitten to scratch early
Interactive toy (like Da Bird Cat Toy) and small, cat-appropriate toys
Collar and cat carrier for trips to the veterinarian
A warm, cosy place to sleep
Remember that anticipation, after all, is half the fun of a gift!
*Remember that not everyone is equipped or able to take care of a pet. If they refuse or you feel you made a misjudgement then make sure you notify the rescue centre or pet store you have reserved the pet from to ensure they have another prospect of a good owner.
If you feel in any mind that the person you are giving this kitten to is not able to deal with such responsibility then please consider another present this Christmas.