How to Introduce a Kitten into Your Home

When bringing a kitten into a new home it can a very traumatic experience for the kitten. This is why it's important that you do everything you can to make it as stress-free and comfortable as possible. First impressions can be lasting and if the kitten feels comfortable it can make for a much more relaxed and friendly cat in the long term.

1. Keep the house as quiet as possible. Lots of activity and noise can scare a small kitten who is unsure of this new environment.

2. Keep the kitten in a small room until they become accustomed to their new environment. Many kittens can be nervous and scared in a new house and will be go into hiding until they are hungry. To prevent losing the kitten in the house keep them in a small sized room until they are more comfortable. This will prevent any scares for you and the kitten.

3. When you bring the kitten home place him in the litter box so he knows where it is located and uses it. Kittens catch on quickly.

4. Have somewhere for the kitten to hide and feel safe. I bought a little house from the pet store for $20.00. I draped a blanked over it and both my kittens loved hiding in there until they started feeling a little more brave.

5. If you have other animals don't introduce them immediately. Animals can feel threatened by an introduction of a new animal into the house. Let them sniff each other out through a closed door. After a few days let them see each other under close supervision. There may be some growling or hissing but it soon will pass. My cats are best friends now, sometimes it just takes time.

6. No fast movements. Let the kitten feel comfortable and when you pick him up make sure you are gentle to allow him to feel comfortable.

7. Pick the kitten up. If the kitten is picked up and cuddled from a young age he will be accustomed to being held. Just make sure you are gentle.

8. If the kitten doesn't eat right away, don't worry. Sometimes they are nervous in a new environment and it may take a couple of days for him to feel comfortable enough to eat. Sometimes putting a little bit of wet food out will encourage the kitten to eat as well.

Bringing a new kitten into your home can be a fun and exciting time in your life. A cat can make an amazing companion who requires little supervision, and by taking the steps to ensure a proper introduction into your home you can enjoy a long and happy life with a friend for life.