How to Choose a Kitten

So you have decided you'd like to add a new member to your family. With so many cute kittens to choose from, how does one go about choosing that perfect kitten? Here are some tips.

The first thing to realize is there is no such thing as a perfect kitten. Like any living being, kittens can be playful and cuddly one minute and rambunctious troublemakers the next. The key is finding that kitten perfectly suited for your family.

It is important to remember, when adopting any animal, that it is likely going to need certain necessary shots and vet care. Taking any animal out of its familiar environment and bringing it into a new one can be a very traumatic experience, and it is not uncommon for kittens to suffer from upper respiratory infections, parasites, ear mites, or herpes conjunctivitis. Getting the proper vaccines is essential, and these would include rabies, feline infectious peritonitis (FIP), feline leukemia, feline AIDS, and bartonella (cat scratch disease).

One should also know what type of kitten one is looking for. Many vet clinics and pet stores have bulletin boards containing advertisements from certain breeders. If Siamese kittens are your thing, yet you find a breeder of Bengal kittens instead, it might not be a bad idea to give that breeder a call and explain what you are looking for. Many breeders know of other breeders and they might be able to suggest a certain breeder or facility that is selling ragdoll kittens, or whatever kitten of your choice. It all depends on the kitten you want.

Yet for those not as particular, visiting your local Humane Society is an excellent way to locate that new kitten. First, think of what kind of disposition you have in mind. Do you prefer a kitten that is feisty and sassy? Or the type that cuddles upon your lap? It's a good idea to observe kittens' behavior, and to note the ones that might seem more timid or shy. If an outgoing kitten holds more appeal, then the ones that seem frightened might need longer adjustment time.

A healthy kitten will have clear eyes, no discharge or sneezing, and nor will it be lethargic. If you see a kitten that is a bit standoffish and who also has a runny nose, this could be a sign of an upper respiratory infection, and the reason the kitten chooses not to play could simply be because it is not feeling well. Kittens that suffer from these aliments are generally moved to a separate room, away from the healthy ones.

Once you decide on your kitten, be sure to have a small room set up in your home with a litter pan and food dish. If your kitten dashes beneath the bed once you bring it home, don't panic. It is not uncommon for kittens to want to stay hidden for the first few hours or even days. This is a very scary time for them. They are entering a new world and they will want to have a small corner that makes them feel safe. The important thing is to make sure the kitten is eating and drinking regularly and is not having any diarrhea or vomiting.

Also, if you have other animals, the kitten must remain in isolation for at least two weeks. More often than not, when a kitten is brought home from a shelter, they are incubating a myriad of infections. If your kitten comes down with a fever or begins discharging from the eyes or nose, call your vet so the kitten can be put on some antibiotics. As long as the infections are not fatal, they can be dealt with. Upper respiratory infections are very common among kittens. They can be taxing but can be managed with the proper care.

Ultimately, give that kitten time to adjust. Approach it with affection and don't force any play upon it, if the kitten seems frightened or sick. Don't be surprised if the kitten isn't behaving as you expected it would. Those first two weeks are an adjustment for both of you. Give it time to explore its new surrounds. Give it time to come to you. Your new friend will love you for it.