Tips for Caring for Persian Kittens

Persian kittens can be so cute and adorable that you adopt them before you're prepared. As with any new pet, you should have a few things on hand before you adopt. For owners of Persian kittens, this article will give you tips on caring for your new baby.

~Supplies

There are some basic supplies you will need on hand. Some of these may seem obvious, but one look at that cute little kitten face and you may forget the basics. You will need to have a litter box and litter to begin potty training. Unscented, clumpable litter is best. Perfumes can cause allergies and the scent may actually drive you kitten away from the litter box.

Purchase cat food specially made for kittens. Depending on the age, you may want to have a mix of canned food and dry food on hand. Dry food for kittens is normally made up of smaller, softer pieces.

Have food and water containers within easy reach for your kitten. Sometimes kittens are not as agile as their adult counterpart, so keep food low to the floor. Make sure you keep fresh water in the water bowl. Depending on how much water your kitten drinks, refresh the water at least once per day. You may also want to place a towel around the bowls in case of splashing.

Purchase a few toys for your kitten. You may want to talk to the breeder or employee at the pet shop where the kitten was purchased. They will have an idea of the kitten's preferences when it comes to toys. They will also know whether the kitten is more playful or lazy. However, toys with catnip, bells, strings, and feathers are all great options.

Know the number of a local veterinarian. Also have the number of a 24-hour vet on hand as well for emergencies. You will need these numbers to schedule regular checkups and any shots. Kittens need three sets of shots. Some of these may have already been taken care of by the breeder or pet store. Be comfortable with the vet before actually choosing one for your kitten.

~Grooming

Persians require frequent grooming. This is vital to good health for them. Kittens do not have to be brushed as often as adults, but it's a good idea to develop good grooming habits early on.

Purchase a comb designed for long haired cats. A wide toothed metal comb works well for knots, while a slicker brush can be used for fluffing. Try to brush your kitten daily, or at the very least, every other day. Due to the longer hair, your kitten can develop knots in their hair easily. Knots allow bacteria to build up and can cause skin problems.

Baths are required when the fur begins to look shabby. Baby shampoo works great to clean the fur without irritating the eyes or skin. You can also use a soap free of perfumes and dyes. However, watch you kitten carefully for any signs of irritation. Make sure you wash their face as well as their fur. Persians tend to have watery eyes and runny noses. You will need to clean their faces between baths as well.

Carefully comb and blow dry your kitten's fur after their bath to prevent any knots. Keep the blow dryer on a low setting. This will keep the heat from being too much. Also, be aware you may need to ease your kitten into the bathing and drying routine. After all, cats don't naturally like water or wind.

Keep their claws trimmed. This will help prevent them from sharpening their claws on furniture and walls. This also prevents their claws from growing too long and backwards into their paws. You can use scissor clippers made especially for cats, a file tool such as Peticure, or take them to a groomer if you're uncertain.

~Eyes

Outside of simply wiping their eyes, check for signs of dryness as well. Use an eye cleaning solution to wash out the eyes. Be sure you do not use contact cleaner. Place a light amount of lubricating eye gel into the eyes after cleaning to keep them moist.

As with any kitten, have patience. It may take time to learn your kitten's preferences and attitude. The biggest difference with Persian kittens is grooming. Start grooming from day one. The only other things your kitten will need are playtime and love from their owner.