It is a very traumatic time for a kitten  when it leaves its mother and siblings. It will often eat well the first day; however, as it starts to miss its family, it will fret. You can reduce its stress by providing the diet it was receiving from the seller. You can change the diet slowly, if necessary, as it settles down. Of course, it many kittens have no problems but if yours does, this feeding advice should help its period of adjustment. 

What is essential is that the kitten takes in sufficient liquids so that it does not start to dehydrate. This, more than anything else, will adversely affect its health very rapidly. If you are at all concerned, do consult your vet. The kitten may have picked up a virus, but if it is treated promptly, this should not be a problem. Your vet might supply you with a dietary supplement, which we have found excellent for kittens experiencing "new home syndrome."

• Scratching
• Talking
• Aggressive Behavior
• Litter Box Training

Scratching:  Cats "scratch" to stretch, clean their claws and to mark their territory by leaving a visible sign along with their scent. So if her scratching post is convenient, she'll leave your furniture alone. When she starts to scratch something that's off limits, clap your hands sharply and say "NO" in a stern voice. Then pick her up, taker her to the scratching post and play with her there.

Talking:  If she is lonely, anxious or bored, your kitten will "talk" to you - to try and get your attention. Answer her cry by saying "hello' using her name and giving her the love and attention she's craving. Also, fun toys are a good way to keep her entertained.

Aggressive Behavior:  When you tickle your kitten's stomach and allow her to wrestle with your fingers, she will probably respond by nipping and scratching at your hand. By allowing her to do this, you're reinforcing inappropriate behavior and teaching her that hand biting is allowed. If she tries to nip or scratch your hand, disengage your hand by gently pushing toward her. Give her toys instead of your hand. Leave her alone for a few minutes. Return after she has calmed down and try playing with her again using a proper toy.

Litter Box Training:  Rest assured, litter box training should be easy for you and your kitten. Most kittens naturally feel the urge to dig in substrate material (such as litter box filler) as early as four weeks. If you interfere with your kitten while she's in her litter box, she may develop an aversion to using the box. Just be patient. Instinct will guide your kitten or cat to developing good litter box habits.

What her very carefully, especially when she wakes up and after meals. Place her in her box every time she shows signs of being ready to use it. Praise her lavishly to reinforce the fact that she's been good. If your kitten gets into the habit of using another location instead of, or in addition to, her litter box, it may be because the litter box is dirty, you've changed the type of litter or the location isn't suitable. If this behavior continues, talk to your veterinarian to make sure it's not caused by a medical problem. If your cat experiences lapses in use of her litter box that continue for  a period of time, it could be a sign of something more serious. Urinary tract disorders can cause pain, burning and a constant urge to urinate even when the bladder is not full. A cat with such a problem may be forced to pass a small amount of urine whenever the urge strikes. Such disorders should be treated by your veterinarian immediately.

Contact Me