Resources
Kitten Socialization
4 Secrets to a well-adjusted new kitten
Socializing your sleek new bundle of joy is something you can do with your veterinarian’s help. Start here.
Did you know that kittens learn and develop a big part of their adult personality by 16 weeks of age? It’s true, and if you want a happy cat that takes life in a joyous stride, the clock is ticking. The positive (or negative) associations that young cats develop during this critical stage of brain development can last a lifetime … for better or worse. So let’s make it better! Note: Don’t force things! Make sure these exposures are done in a way that’s comfortable for the kitten. Don’t keep exposing a kitten to a new experience if the cat is scared. Talk to your veterinarian for guidance.
- Handle your kitten— Make a point of touching your kitten all over. Don’t ever be forceful or push to the end of the struggle. Just touch and hold gently and reward her acceptance with a special treat or gentle pet (kittens love to be stroked on both sides of their faces—maybe that’s all you’ll need). Remember, over time, you’ll need to be able to trim your nails, clean your ears, and brush your teeth. If your new kitten enjoys these rituals, life is better for you both.
- Socialize with your kitten— Let your kitten meet people of all shapes, sizes, and mannerisms to learn there’s nothing to fear from people of all kinds. Introduce children, men and women, and even people with hats or costumes—Halloween occurs yearly. Don’t forget the treats to make “scary” fun! Warn everyone to go slowly and speak softly because kittens can be naturally cautious.
- Keep the peace (of mind)— Let’s face it: your cat will be sick or hurt at some point, maybe starting with a spay or neuter surgery. You can improve this by training early so as not to fear the cat carrier. Buy one you like too because you need to keep it where you both can see it and think of it as an everyday thing. Please leave it in the cat’s favorite area with the door open and hide treats or feed meals there. Anything you can do to create a positive association with the carrier is a step in the right direction. The best pages have rigid sides open on the top and the front. That way, your kitten can feel safe in a hospital exam room while your veterinarian does a physical examination inside the carrier. Your veterinary team will love you, and your kitten (and eventually grownup cat) won’t be as freaked out when she needs to ride in her carrier for any reason.
- Adventure with your kitten— You and your cat will experience all life has to offer together, but the experiences won’t be as fun if your cat is afraid or challenging to handle. Take your kitten wherever you can for exposure to new places. Visit your veterinarian on a day just for a visit—and some friendly treats. And don’t forget to make her carrier into a cat nirvana, because that’s how you can keep traveling with her the safest. Science shows that it’s easier for brains to remember bad experiences than good ones, so make sure your foundation for your kitten’s brain is filled with terrific associations.
You can avoid big problems in the future, and, let’s face it, handling and spending time with your kitten is a ton of fun!