Have you recently adopted a kitten? Are you considering getting a kitten? Even if you're an experienced kitten or cat owner, this care guide information that will help provide all the information you need from the very first step of choosing and bringing home the perfect kitten for you and your family. This guide will answer all of the most common questions about kitten care to help you have a happier, healthier cat well into adulthood!

Bringing Your New Kitten Home

What do I need to do to make my home kitten-proof?

Make sure potentially dangerous items are out of the way, like electrical cords, rubber bands, hair ties, linear objects (strings, ribbons, etc), blind cords, medications, plants, cleaning supplies or household chemicals, potpourri, and anything small enough that you wouldn’t want a toddler to have access to it. Make sure areas under recliners, behind fridges/ovens, your window screens, and your laundry areas are fully secure, as all of these can pose serious hazards to your kitten.

Where should I keep my kitten when I first bring him home?

Kittens need time to adjust to a new environment. Restrict the kitten to one room of the house at first, with the food, water, litter box, treats, bedding, and toys all inside. If your kitten seems very anxious, you can use special "calming" products.

Feliway
This product is a synthetic analog of feline facial pheromones available in plug- in diffusers and sprays that helps to calm the anxious kitten. You can plug the diffuser in to affect a whole room or use the spray on local areas like bedding.
Pet Naturals Calming treats for Cats
Treats can be offered during any potentially fearful event.
 

If I already have animals, how can they get used to each other?

Start with the door closed, gradually working up to opening it a crack. Use a towel or an article of your clothing to transfer scents from pet to pet, feed treats on opposite sides of the door or a baby gate. Use calming products all over the house to help keep everyone calm, and don’t push the introductions if they’re hissing or seem scared, although limited hissing and growling is not abnormal.

Feliway
 

When should my new kitten meet my other pets?

Keep all other pets in the house away until the newcomer is comfortable in his/her "safe" room. Provide as much human interaction as possible! When all pets appear to be relaxed and are no longer hissing, you can gradually allow them to explore the rest of the house, use other litter boxes and meet other pets, under your direct supervision, until all residents are content with each other.

Vetri Science Composure Feline Chews
Treats will encourage kittens to be more social with each other. Have a "treat party" when the pets encounter each other, turning a potentially negative situation into a positive one.
NaturVet Quiet Moments
Treats will encourage kittens to be more social with each other. Have a "treat party" when the kittens encounter each other, turning a potentially negative situation into a positive one.
 

When can I move the litterbox out of the "safe" room, if that isn't where I want it to be permanently?

Put a second box for your new kitten where you want it to be long-term. As soon as the kitten is comfortable walking around the house and using the second box, the first one can be moved to a more desirable location.

Precious Cat Kitten Attract Kitten Training Litter
An herbal scent will help him find the litter box, and want to use it
Natures Miracle Calming Spray can be sprayed around the litter box areas
Helps kittens remain calm in tense situations
 

When can I move the food and water?

As soon as your kitten is comfortably exploring your home, it’s safe to move the food to another location, as long as it’s free from loud noises and heavy traffic that could startle your kitten. If you have multiple kittens, once they’re living comfortably together, you can move your new kitten’s food to the same room as the other kittens. They may require more than one feeding station to discourage competition for resources.

Should I allow my kitten to go outside?

Kittens who go outdoors unprotected can be injured by cars, exposed to toxins, get lost, and attacked by predators or other cats. In addition, these kittens are more likely to be infected with intestinal worms, heartworms, fleas, bacteria and fungus. Keep your kitten safe on a securely screened-in patio or porch, where he can enjoy the outdoors in safety.

PetSafe Small 2- Way Locking Cat Door
If your kitten must go outside, provide her with a small door so she can get in quickly if she feels threatened, and always lock her in at night for safety
 

Will my indoor kitten require a collar?

Yes. You never know when a kitten/cat may accidentally slip outside, so for safety reasons, have her wear a collar with a tag with your phone number on it.

Socializing and Training

How do I safely pick up or hold my kitten?

Pick up placing one hand under the chest and with your other hand, support under your kitten’s rear end. Do this often to get your kitten used to it!

How should I get my kitten used to petting?

Your kitten may be fearful of touch at first. Focus on getting him used to being pettedgently on the middle of the back, moving your hand in line with his fur growth. Some kittens don’t like to be petted on the head and others don’t like near the tail or the stomach. Pay attention to your kitten’s body language, including whether they’re swishing/wagging their tails, (this is not a good sign in cats as it is in dogs) to help show you when to stop.

Can I scruff my kitten?

Scruffing is grabbing the kitten’s fur at the back of the neck, just as a mother cat would do to carry or discipline. Scruffing should only be done by trained veterinary professionals, and even then, it’s really only the mother cat who should ever scruff a kitten!

How can I help my kitten be less nervous?

Kittens can be very reactive to loud noises or fast movements. Have children practice moving slowly and quietly around your kitten and always ensure that your kitten has a safe place to go that is dark and quiet (a spare bedroom works well for this) that can be your kitten’s safe zone to escape when scared.

How can I stop my kitten from doing things I don’t like?

Kittens respond best to positive reinforcement, not punishment. Don’t hit or yell, as this makes behaviors worse. You can deter your kitten from countertops using startle methods (a water bottle your kitten won’t see you spray or “hiss” machines that sit on your counters and hiss when your kitten jumps up), but in general, it’s best to place your kitten on the floor and reward her for being on the floor instead of the counter with a treat and praise.

More About Kitten Behavior

For more information on addressing behavior problems, see our guide on Kitten Behavior)

Food and Water

Does my kitten need milk?

If weaned, no. If not weaned, or not eating food on her own, your kitten likely needs to be bottle fed with a commercial kitten milk replacer. This is not to be confused with cat milk that is designed as a treat. See below for product recommendations:

KMR
GNC Pet Milk
 

What types of food and water bowls do I need?

Steel or ceramic, but no plastic. Fountains are better than bowls for water.

Should I feed my kitten dry food?

Dry food is less expensive, easier to store, and less messy. Most kittens prefer to nibble at their food around the clock, eating up to 30 small meals per day. You can control kittens calorie intake by feeding a high or low calorie food, while having it available at all times.

Should I feed my kitten canned food?

Canned wet food and soft moist pouches contain a lot of water, which makes it more expensive and also subject to spoiling if the kitten doesn't eat it all in one meal. However, canned food provides more water and helps keep your kitten well hydrated, better for the urinary system. Kittens seem to love it and once you start feeding it, the kitten will demand it every day after that! You must decide which type of food is most convenient for you, but healthy for your kitten.

How do I know what kitten food to buy?

There are so many products on the market that it can be confusing. We recommend foods that are made in the USA with ingredients from the USA, to avoid the risk of contaminated sources overseas. The food should taste good, maintain your kitten's ideal weight, and result in healthy, solid stools. Cats are carnivores, so it is very important to keep the protein level high and the carbohydrate percentage low.

MANY Products: Orijen, Acana, Fromm, Great Life, Pure Vita,Weruva, Tikicat, Wellness, Natural Balance, Avoderm, Halo, Solid Gold, Merrick, Nutro Ultra, Purina Proplan, Newmans Own, Purina One, Kirkland Brand
Made in the USA
 

How much do I feed?

Your vet can tell you how much your kitten weighs, and if she needs to gain or lose. Look at the recommendations on the food bag or can and feed for what your kitten should weigh and not necessarily what she actually weighs to keep her weight ideal. Also, have her regularly weighed by your vet or do it yourself at home. Obesity leads to diabetes, so be careful.

Petmate Pet Cafe Feeder
This free feeder will provide food at all times for several days
Esky Electronic Portion Control Automatic Feeder
Automatic feeders can be programmed to dispense just the right amount of food for kittens who tend to overeat, and you don't need to be home.
Wonder Bowl Selective Feeder
This Selective Feeder keeps other pets out of your kitten's food so it is perfect for kittens on a special diet for medical reasons.
 

How often do I feed my kitten?

If you’re feeding dry food, it should be in controlled portions at least twice daily. If you’re feeding canned food, it spoils after 15-30 minutes, so it cannot be left down, but should be fed a minimum of twice daily. Younger kittens need to be fed more often.

How much water should my kitten drink?

Fresh, clean water should be available to your kitten at all times. The amount a kitten drinks will depend on what type of food she is eating. Kittens on wet food may drink very little to no extra water compared to a kitten on dry.

Pet Safe Drinkwell Original Pet Fountain, or Aspen Pet Products Deluxe Fresh Flow pet fountain
Fountains will encourage your kitten to drink more water. Use these instead of turning on the faucet for your kitten, which can lead to annoying, demanding behaviors.
 

What treats are best for my kitten?

Treats should be tailored to your individual kitten's needs, and taste buds!

Feline Greenies Dental Treats will help keep her mouth fresh
Pet Naturals Hairball Treats are beneficial for long haired kittens
NaturVet Quiet Moments Calming Aid plus melatonin soft chews may help anxious kittens
 

Are human foods safe for my kitten?

Kittens have special dietary requirements for protein and amino acids, so you should avoid feeding them human food exclusively, or diets that are 100% fish. Small amounts of cooked meats, and occasional bites of your food are safe. Dairy products ideally should be lactose free for better digestion. Be sure you know what foods are not safe, like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, macadamia nuts, garlic, yeast dough, coffee, salt and xylitol.

Where should place the food and water?

Place the food and water bowls away from high traffic areas and the litter box . Food may need to go up high on a shelf, counter or table where only the kitten can reach it if you have dogs.

Petsafe SlimCat Meal Dispensing Toy
This unique toy encourages your kitten to exercise while eating, an excellent choice for an overweight kitten.
 

Litter Box

What do I do if my kitten is not urinating or defecating on her own?

Extremely young kittens under 8 weeks of age may need to be stimulated to urinate/defecate. Mom cat would do this, and you may need to do this for them by using a soft cloth or a little toilet tissue moistened with warm water. Gently rub the cloth/tissue in a tickling motion over the urogenital region and anus to stimulate them. If your kitten is older, this should not be necessary, and if they’re having problems going to the bathroom at that age, they need to be seen by a vet.

How do I train my kitten to use a litter box?

Put them in the box immediately after eating or drinking. Mimic digging motions with your hands. Keep food in close proximity to the litter box while feeding initially.

Kitten attract litter
 

Is one litter box enough for my kitten?

One box per kitten, plus one--is the rule! This means a minimum of two boxes for one kitten or 11 boxes for 10 kittens. You should also have at least one litter box on every story of your house. That means a 3 story house gets 3 litter boxes for one kitten. Follow whichever rule of litter boxes is a greater number!

How big should the litter box be?

Ultimately, you want a box that is as big and deep as possible! Everything you read here is based on research by feline behaviorists. Kittens prefer a lot of space so they can choose a new site each time, because they are very clean animals. However, you’ll need to ensure the sides of the box are low enough to allow the kitten to get into and out of the box easily.

Pet Supermarket IRIS open top litter box
The length of pans should be at least one and one-half times the length of the kitten
Lowes large plastic storage containers
Place lid behind the box to protect the wall, and cut an opening for your kitten to enter and exit
Walmart child’s small plastic swimming pool
This may seem excessive but kittens love the huge space. Perfect for multi-kitten households
 

Where should I put the litterbox?

Choose a site that is private but easily accessible. Make sure that no humans or other kittens will block the entrance. The box should be on a tile or wood floor. If carpet is the only option, then place a large piece of plastic under the box so no litter can spill on the carpet, which can lead to kittens eliminating on the carpet. Location is everything! Kittens prefer a quiet, safe, private place to potty, just like we do. It is important for the kitten to never be interrupted or frightened by noise or activity near the box. At the same time, it should be close enough to be convenient. Two entrances and exits to the room where the box is located is ideal if you have multiple kittens.

Purr-Fect Paws Litter Mat for Cats
A commercially available mat to put under the box
Merry Pet Cat Washroom
An attractive, enclosed litter box for open living areas
 

Should the litterbox have a cover on it?

This is a matter of preference for the kitten. Most kittens prefer open. If you would like to have a cover, provide one box with a cover and one without. If you are lucky, your kitten will use the covered one just as much as the uncovered. The larger the covered box, the more likely your kitten will use it.

Catit Jumbo Hooded cat litter pan
Booda Dome Cleanstep Cat Box
The advantage of a covered box is that some of them are designed to look like furniture so they are less obvious to visitors
 

What type of litter should I use?

Most kittens (AND parents) prefer litter that clumps and is the consistency of sand, so you should try these first. There are also clay, granular, recycled paper, silica beads, grain based, garden soil and other types available.

Lowes playground sand or construction sand
These products can be more economical for multi-kitten households, especially if you are using a small swimming pool as a litterbox.
Precious Cat Ultra Premium Clumping Cat Litter
Tidy Cats Scoop or Premium Scoop
Available in pet stores, online and in grocery stores. Has the ability to clump urine into easy to clean balls for scooping
Arm & Hammer litter deodorizer
Litter Deodorizer can help control odor for kittens with particularly strong urine
 

How often should I clean the litterbox?

Every 2 hours up to once a day is ideal, depending on your schedule, the number of kittens you have, and how fastidious your kitten is.

Should I consider getting an automatic litter box?

Automatic self cleaning litter boxes clean the box after each use; however, some kittens require special training to use them. Make sure the manufacturer includes instructions with the product.

Omega Paw Self-Cleaning Litter Box
PetSafe Simply Clean Continuous Clean Litter Box
 

Exercise and Play

How should I play with my kitten?

Kittens love to stalk, chase, and pounce. Use hand held toys (not your own body parts as this can lead to inappropriate biting/scratching) that encourage this behavior. Drag any toy with a small rope (but don’t let the kitten chew the string). You can even teach your kitten to sit, jump and play fetch using positive reinforcement techniques with treats/praise.

Laser pointer--Kittens love to chase the dot!
End play time with a laser with a toy the kitten can catch or a treat
Cat Dancer or Rainbow Cat Charmer
Go Cat Cat Catcher Teaser Wand with Mouse Cat Toy
MYLAR Crinkle Balls
 

How do I get my kitten to exercise when I am not home?

Some kittens keep themselves busy, but most will sleep all day! You can hide treats for your kitten to search and find. Your kitten may play with other pets in the house, but if not, you can encourage play with electronic toys. Bird feeders outside your windows, TV, or a radio can also keep your kitten entertained.

Cat Meow Moving undercover mouse electronic kitten toy
Ideas in Life rotating mouse toy
SmartCat Peek and play toy box
CatIt Treat Ball
Bergan turbo track
Kitty City pouncing paws motorized toy
These toys don't require your presence to engage the kitten. Electronic toys can be set to turn on several times a day for short periods of time.
One Fast Cat exercise wheel
A great way for your kitten to exercise indoors, but will require some training
 

Does my kitten need a scratching post?

Your kitten needs a place to scratch as well as to climb and explore. Kitten climbing trees or condos help deter your kitten from climbing on the furniture. They often include places to hide, and scratch as well. A natural wood fire log or old wicker chair can be great for scratching.

Bergan turbo scratcher, KONG naturals Incline Scratcher Toy
These are designed to attract your kitten to scratch
Kitten Tree Scratcher Play House Condo, SmartCat multilevel cat climber
Put these in front of an uncovered window and your kittens will love them!
 

Can I take my kitten for walks?

It depends on the kitten! The only safe way is on a leash with a special kitten harness. Introduce your kitten to the outdoors one step at a time, using lots of treats until she is comfortable. Some kittens will enjoy this and others will prefer to stay indoors.

Coastal Pet Black Mesh Cat Harness, Kitty Holster Cat Harness, Savvy Tabby Nylon Cat Harness
These harnesses keep your kitten securely attached to the leash outdoors. Never rely on just a collar!
Strollers
 

Is it okay to give my kitten catnip?

Yes but not all will react to it, and most will not react until over 6 months of age.

 

More about keeping kittens happy

For more information on keeping your kitten happy, see our guide on Feline Enrichment

Sleeping

Does my kitten need to sleep at a certain temperature?

Young, tiny kittens need warm areas in which to sleep. Leave loose blankets for them to climb under, warm bedding materials, and set your thermostat higher if the kitten is under 12 weeks old.

What areas in my house are the best for my kittens to sleep?

Kittens sleep or rest about 60% of their day. They will do this almost anywhere, depending on their personalities.

Does my kitten need her own bed?

Kitten beds are usually enclosed so that kittens feel more secure and hidden. Your kitten may like his own bed on the floor or prefer the height of a shelf, a kitten condo or a chair. Other kittens will sleep hidden underneath furniture.

Sunny Seat Window Mounted Cat Bed, Midwest Homes for Pets, Curious Cat Cube, Armarkat cat bed, Pet Ottoman
These are just some of the kitten beds available.
 

Can my kitten sleep in bed with me?

Of course! This is where most kittens want to be. If you object to this, you will need to provide an alternative place from day one, or your kitten may be difficult to keep off your head while you are trying to sleep!

Can I close my kitten out of my bedroom?

You can, but please make sure that water and litter boxes are available to your kitten no matter whether you choose to lock him in or out of your room.

Traveling with Kittens

Should I take my kitten with me or leave them at home?

Kittens are more comfortable in their own environment. Better to hire a pet sitter.

How do I get my kitten in a carrier?

Gently. If you can’t just place him in it while you’re holding him with one hand under his chest and one under his back end, then try tilting the carrier on its end and lower the kitten into the carrier, back legs first. You can also wrap everything but her head in a towel and put her in that way to prevent getting scratched. Leaving the carrier out with the door open all the time makes it less scary to your kitty when the time comes to use it.

How do I take my kitten in the car?

Kittens are not small dogs. They get very anxious when removed from their familiar environment. If you want your kitten to be a good traveler, you will need to train him to go into a carrier and relax. A kitten loose in the car is very high risk for escape and dangerous for the driver.

OxGord Pet Carrier soft sided, Petmate top load pet kennel
These are safe and comfortable for pet travel
Sleepypod
 

What if my kitten doesn't like the carrier?

You can start with short periods of confinement and lots of yummy treats! Gradually get your kitten used to being in a crate for longer periods of time, in a moving vehicle. The alternative is to get a strong sedative from your veterinarian or to endure the sound of your kitten meowing for the entire trip!

NurtureCALM feline calming pheromone collar
Calm Cat Anxiety and stress relief coat
 

Can my kitten stay in a hotel with me?

Always confine your kitten in a "safe" room, like the bathroom, when entering hotels or strange houses. Make sure she is relaxed and using the litter box before letting her explore. Never allow your kitten to go outdoors unsecured. They have been known to travel many miles to get back home.

www.petswelcome.com, www.vetstreet.com
www.hotels.com/pet-friendly-hotels, www.pettravel.com
Many websites provide information for traveling with your pet and hotel availability

Can my kitten travel by air with me?

In most cases yes, but you’ll need to check with your airline, customs, and make sure that your kitten is in proper health.

www.AVMA.org, www.pettravel.com, www.aphis.usda.gov
These websites provide additional information about health certificates for air travel and international travel requirements. Your veterinarian can also help you with this.

Grooming and Health Care

How often should I give my kitten a bath?

For short-haired kittens who keep themselves clean--Never! Most kittens are very low maintenance in the grooming department. If you are allergic to kittens, or have a kitten who is unable to keep herself clean due to a medical issue or being too small, she can be bathed as needed. It is best to train them for this as well, or have the bath done by a professional.

Vet's Best dry clean waterless cat foam
Wash your kitten without water!
E'Plaza Adjustable Polyester Pet Cat Washing Mesh Bags, Guardian Gear Nylon Cat Muzzle
Helps keep you and your kitten safe during a bath
 

Does my long-haired kitten need a hair cut?

He does if he is unable to keep his hair from getting matted. You should brush him every day to help him out, but sometimes keeping the hair short is the only solution. A professional groomer can clip most of the long hair, while leaving the head, legs and tail (a lion cut. Some kittens just need to be clipped around their anal area, which is called a sanitary clip.

Four Paws Magic Coat Love Glove, Furminator long hair deshedding tool, Safari self cleaning slicker brush
Tools to help you remove the loose hair off your kitten on a daily basis. Prevents hairballs and excessive shedding and matting
 

Do I need to brush my kitten?

Yes. It helps provide hairball prevention. And for long haired kittens, starting brushing right away will help them get used to it for the future.

FURminator for kittens
Deshedding tool
 

Should I trim my kitten's toenails or get him de-clawed?

You can train your kitten (lots of treats, again!) to allow you to trim his nails or apply nail caps to his claws at home. Your vet or groomer can show you how. And, of course, provide scratching posts. Surgical declawing of an adult kitten is very painful. Most vets today believe it is inhumane and many refuse to do it. It is a last resort to be discussed with your vet.

JW Pet Company Deluxe Nail Trimmer for Cats
For trimming nails at home
SoftPaws Nail Caps, Soft Claws Nail Caps
An alternative to declawing. You can put these on at home.
Scratching posts
These discourage your pet from scratching on unwanted surfaces and also help to keep nails trimmed.
 

How can I get my kitten to get used to touching her paws?

For nail trims, play with your kitten’s paws while she’s asleep before introducing clippers. Then, work on pushing on the foot pads to extend the nails. Once your kitten is comfortable with both of these, you can then introduce nail clippers.

Should I brush my kitten’s teeth?

Yes! A cat’s teeth are no different than our own and they require regular cleaning to prevent plaque buildup and periodontal disease. Start when they are young so they will get used to it. There are special brushes and paste in your vet’s office or pet store.

How can I tell if my kitten is at a healthy weight?

Talk to your vet about your cat’s body condition score. You should not see the ribs protruding, but should be able to easily feel your kitten’s ribs.

Does my kitten need monthly parasite preventatives?

Indoor kittens may not need any preventatives after their initial treatments. Outdoor kittens need regular fecal checks and a monthly flea and tick preventative if old enough. Heartworm preventative depends on the area in which you live.

Frontline
Revolution
Advantage
 

What if my kitten is too young to apply flea preventatives?

Bathe in mild soap or kitten shampoo. You can use a flea shampoo but only if it is labeled for use in kittens of your kitten’s age. Comb for fleas and drown them in soapy water if any live ones are found. DO this daily until problem resolves.

Furminator cat shampoo
 

Should I clean my kitten’s ears?

Most kittens won’t need it long term, but many come with mites. Ear treatments are often necessary at young ages, then will resolve, and your kitten will keep her own ears clean. If needed, use a vet-approved ear cleanser.

Oti clens
 

Veterinary Care

What does the vet need to do before I bring my kitten home?

Kittens should be blood tested for Feline Leukemia Virus and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus before they are put in a house with other negative cats or kittens. A fecal test and necessary dewormings should be done for intestinal parasites. Ear mite treatment may also be needed as well as flea treatment.

How often should I take my kitten to the Vet?

All kittens should be examined by a veterinarian at least once a year, regardless of whether or not they need vaccines. Exams are critical for all kittens at least annually. Remember, kittens instinctively hide symptoms of illness in order to avoid predators.

Does my kitten need vaccinations and dewormings?

Kittens should have their shots beginning at around 6 weeks old, with booster shots being given 3-4 weeks later. Kittens without their mom need vaccines at 4 weeks old. Same for deworming even if fecals are negative.

What vaccines does my kitten need?

A Rabies virus vaccine given at 14 weeks. Then boostered one year later, and every three years because it is required by law. FVRCP given at 4 or 6 weeks and repeated 3-4 weeks later up to 4 times (the last one given around 14 weeks old). FeLV only if kitten is outside in which case give it on same schedule as FVRCP.

Does my kitten need routine parasite tests?

Kittens should be tested for parasites in their stools even if they live indoors and should receive routine flea preventative medication, especially if you have other pets.

How often does my kitten need professional teeth cleaning?

Kittens don’t brush or floss on their own, but generally will not need cleanings until they’re older. However, they will need cleanings regularly, every year to 3 years in most cases.

Should I have my kitten spayed/neutered and/or de-clawed?

Veterinarians often recommend neutering and declawing at the same time. All kittens should be spayed/neutered to prevent accidental reproduction, roaming, aggression, marking, and even reproductive cancers. Declawing, however, can lead to many behavioral and even physical problems and should be avoided at all costs.

Should my pet be micro-chipped?

Microchipping is advised for all pets, and can be done any time. The procedure is quick and painless, but is often done at the time of spaying/neutering for your kitten’s comfort. Microchips will provide a permanent ID for your kitten, since a collar or tag can easily fall off or get caught and ripped off outdoors. Always be sure to update your contact information if you move, get a new phone number, or transfer ownership of your kitten to a new person so the chip tells shelters, animal control, or a veterinarian who to contact to get the kitten back home.

Does my kitten need pet insurance?

Yes! Pet insurance is a low monthly cost and can potentially save you thousands of dollars in a single emergency room situation. Pet insurance can cover routine veterinary care, emergency injuries or illnesses only, or some combination of both. Dental and chronic conditions can be covered by some plans as well. Be sure to evaluate your plan carefully so you know what is covered and what isn’t, and whether any hereditary, genetic, or pre-existing conditions are excluded.

How do I know if my kitten is sick?

Watch for anything out of the ordinary--you know your kitten! Kittens do 5 primary things: eat/drink, urinate/defecate, sleep, play, and groom themselves. If there are any changes in the normal pattern, take your kitten to the veterinarian!

Signs of Emergencies
Seizures, collapse, fainting, straining to urinate or defecate, eye injuries, swelling of the face, poisonous bites or bites from other animals, open/bleeding wounds, feeling too hot or too cold, breathing problems
Signs of Illness
Losing weight, failure to gain weight, changes in appetite, drinking more or less, urinating more or less, hair loss, behavior changes

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