Wanting a well-adjusted kitten that loves everyone and everything? They aren’t just born, they are made. Here are ways to help socialize your kitten so they grow up to be a great cat citizen.
#1 – Kitten Party
Invite your friends over to play with your new kitten (I know, torture). Provide lots of toys and treats for them to interact with your new best friend. Take turns holding and playing with the cute bundle of fur, but keep the party short, you don’t want your kitten to be “over” attention while people are still trying to play him.
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#2 – Outings
For some reason, people think only dogs should go on outings. But your cat is going to have to go the vet during his life, and maybe a groomers or a boarding facility. What about if you want to travel with your cat? Get him used to car rides and his carrier early on.
#3 – Harness Training
Teach your kitten to walk on a harness so you can take him on walks around the neighborhood. It’s a great way for him to safely explore the world.
#4 – Handling
Be sure you are handing your kitten every day. Don’t just cuddle on your lap. Play with his toes, squeeze them gently to get him used to the sensation for nail trims, touch him everywhere. The more you get your kitty used to this, the more relaxed he will be when you have to restrain him at the vets to handle him for grooming.
#5 – Grooming
Get him used to brushes and trims (like if you plan on doing a sanitary cut) early. Be careful about using a rake or other sharp tool, you don’t want to hurt your kitten. Brush them very lightly, just get them used to the feeling. If he has any bad tangles, be sure to not pull the skin and cause him pain that will just make him not like brushing.
#6 – Dogs
If you have dogs and are planning on them co-existing in the same space, make sure you introduce them slowly, correctly, and the younger the better. If you need help, consult an animal behaviorist. You do not want this to go wrong.
#7 – Baths
Cats do not really need baths, but that doesn’t mean there won’t be times when you are going to need to get them wet. They could develop mange and need treatments, have diarrhea and need to be cleaned off (especially true of a longhaired cat), or maybe they rubbed against the wet paint it in the living room. Regardless, it’s nice to have an adult cat that is okay with a bath if necessary. Starting young will help.
#8 – Kids
Kids are an entirely different thing than other people. They can be very hard on cats, which is why most cats do not like them. Find good kids that are gentle and will listen to instructions. Introduce them with supervision, for short time periods.
