Kittens & Children

Kittens and Children

It is important to realise that cats are not people and so their behaviour may not always be predictable and they can bite and scratch your child. A well-socialised cat that has been properly trained is a pleasure to have around and can give so much enjoyment to the whole family. There is no reason why cats and cannot live happily in the same home as babies or toddlers as long as they learn mutual respect.

Kittens have a very short socialisation phase and the first four to sixteen weeks of life are critical to ensure good behaviour develops. For this reason, ensure you get a kitten from a house where they have had plenty of handling and experienced many sights and smells. This will help reduce the risk of behavioural problems in your cat as it gets older.

Your kitten should be socialised with children as soon as possible to help ensure they get on well together. A child is going to be naturally excited when a kitten first comes home. However, It is important that children are taught that cats are not toys and to treat them with respect. Ensure they leave a cat to rest quietly and do not taunt or tease any cat.

Playing with the kitten is a great way for your children and the kitten to socialise and form a strong friendship. However, there is more to looking after a kitten than playing every now and then so ensure you include your children in all aspects of your kitten’s care; from feeding to grooming and cleaning up after them. It is also a nice idea that you take your children along when the kitten goes for its check up at the vets. This all helps your children learn and understand what is needed to look after the new member of the family and help make their interest in their new kitten stronger.