WELCOMING YOUR NEW KITTEN

 Litter Box

You can help your kitten to understand what is expected by placing her in the litter box after feeding. Kittens do not need a full-size litter box and might do better in a box with lower sides (about 1 inch). Leave the door off the front for the first 6 months.

Litter Box Training

Your kitten is litter box trained. Watch your kitten closely. When she begins nosing in corners or meowing, place her in the litter box. If your kitten has an accident, wipe it up with a paper towel and place the paper towel in the litter box. Then place the kitten in the litter box and repeat the process of scratching with her front paws. Do not punish your cat for having an accident. This won't help her to learn to use the litter box, it will only teach her not to eliminate in front of you.

When your kitten begins to understand, don't take her good behavior for granted. Continue to praise her for using the litter box.

Sleeping

Your new kitten will sleep up to 16 hours a day. Establish a sleeping place for her right away, but think twice before you make that spot your bed. Once she gets comfortable, your kitten may sleep there for the rest of her life.

Playing

It's not a good idea to use hands, fingers, feet or clothing when playing with a kitten, as your cute little kitten will eventually grow into a healthy-sized cat and you do not want to encourage aggressive behavior. Providing appropriate toys for exercising her natural predatory instincts of pouncing, stalking and chasing will ensure she has a safe and healthy outlet for these behaviors. Do not use toys that are too heavy for the kitten to move or that are small enough to be swallowed.

Scratching Post

A scratching post is an excellent investment for your new kitten. It will allow your kitten to scratch, stretch and exercise all at once.