GIVING YOUR KITTEN THE RIGHT START
by Amanda Henry, CVT - Janesville Animal Medical Center
608.868.1761

Most people know that puppies need to attend classes when they are young, but they don’t realize that this is important for kittens, as well.  If kittens are inadequately socialized, they have a very high chance of developing irreversible fears, timidity, and even aggression.  Kittens need to be continuously exposed to a variety of people, animals, and environmental stimuli.  Examples include exposure to different odors, sounds, children, men, women, and dogs.

The most critical period for socialization is between 6-12 weeks of age, but should continue throughout the lifetime of the cat.  By four weeks of age they are ready to develop social relationships with people and other animals.  They should be kept with their littermates until at least seven weeks of age.  Kittens learn invaluable information from their littermates.  This is one important reason why a singleton (a single kitten in a litter) should be raised in another litter of kittens of similar age or have at least one other kitten around. 

Make sure that physical or verbal punishment is never used on your kitten.  This can lead to the kitten being afraid of being approached and handled.  Always reward good behavior with treats or play time.  This will help strengthen the bond between you and your kitten, and give it a great start to the happy life it deserves.