Handy hints and tips for your new furry friend.

House Training
Kittens usually take to litter trays quite easily. Leave the litter tray in an accessible location and change the litter daily.

Microchipping
It is best to microchip your kitten at a young age. It is a quick and permanent method of identification.

Grooming
Kittens and cats spend a lot of time grooming, but the can benefit from brushing to remove excess hair. This helps to reduce the incidence of fur balls.

Protecting Wildlife
Small birds and marsupials are rapidly becoming endangered and the predatory behaviour of domestic cats is a well recognised contributing factor. Place a bell on your kittens collar and keep them in at night to help protect wildlife.

Vaccination
Vaccinate against Feline Enteritis and Feline Respiratory Disease. Being at 8 weeks (F3), repeat at 12 weeks (F3) and at 16 weeks, and have an annual booster (F3) for life.

Worming
Treat for worms at 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12 weeks of age. Repeat monthly until 6 months and every 3 months thereafter. Heartworm treatment can begin at 6 months of age.

Flea Control
Treat your kitten monthly with an effective product. Remember to always treat the environment. Eggs remain on bedding, couches, carpets, etc..

Desexing
Desex at 6 months of age. Cats breed very quickly and desexing is essential to preventing unwanted kittens. Desexed cats are less likely to spray in the house and they also have a reduced incidence of fighting and roaming.

Dental Care
Encourage chewing at an early age, i.e. dental chews, and hard dry food. Also, try brushing your kitten’s teeth regularly from an early age.

Feeding
Feed a complete and balanced commercial kitten food 3 to 4 times daily until 6 months, and then 1 to 2 daily from 6 months. An equivalent adult diet can be introduced around 9-12 months.