June is a pretty important month for kitties: it’s Adopt A Shelter Cat Month! Getting Fluffy from a shelter isn’t just a purrfect way to adopt your new kitty, it’s also something you can do to promote good animal welfare. Getting adopted is a big deal for our feline pals, though, so you’ll want to make sure to get your new buddy started out on the right paw in her new life. A Troutville, VA vet offers some advice on this below.
Kitties are playful and curious, which is both cute and, unfortunately, dangerous. You’ll need to address potential hazards. Basically, make sure that everything that could pose a danger to Fluffy is kept out of paws’ reach. That list includes toxic plants, chemicals, medication, small and sharp items, ropes and cords, and plastic bags and ties. Ask your vet for specific advice.
Have all of the requisite kitty necessities ready and waiting before you bring your new pet home. You’ll need to pick up food, toys, treats, a litterbox and litter, a carrier, a comfy bed, and a good scratching post or board. Your feline buddy will also appreciate some purrniture, such as a cat tower. Hold off on buying food, litter, and a litterbox until you have chosen your furball, though, as these things should be purchased according to Fluffy’s age.
If you have a large place and/or other pets, keep your furball in a small area at first. This can be a spare room, extra bathroom, or utility room. This gives Fluffy a quiet spot where she can relax and get a feel for her new kingdom. Put all of her things in there, and leave a light and radio on for her. Introductions to other pets should happen slowly and in stages, over the course of several days, and only after you get the thumbs-up from your vet. Ask your vet for specific advice.
Purr Starters
It may take Fluffy time to warm up to you. Don’t hold her or pet her if she seems uneasy: win her trust by talking to her and offering toys, treats, and, of course, catnip. Don’t be surprised if you melt the first time your kitty purrs when you touch her. Cats have a way of wrapping us around their paws!
Have you recently adopted a shelter cat? Please contact us, your Troutville, VA pet hospital, for all of Fluffy’s veterinary care needs.
