Socialization Cat

Want a cat that travels in the car without screaming from anxiety? Crave a cat that doesn't go crazy when you try to give it a bath, trim its' nails or give it a pill? Wish that when company comes to visit that your cat would actually come out and say hello rather than hide under the bed?

It is critical that during a kitten's `sensitive period', between the ages of 2 to 8 weeks, that you lay the foundation for your kitten to grow into a confident adult. Whenever possible, obtain your kitten from a breeder who has an understanding of how to mold the personalities of his or her kittens during this impressionable time.

When you get your kitten home be sure to handle it gently and frequently. Make these times positive and pleasant. You don't want to frighten the kitten. Try checking its ears, and opening its mouth. Play with its paws, and be sure that it is comfortable with you brushing its back as well as its belly. Studies have shown that handling during this period of a cat's life allows it to cope more effectively with stress later on.

Variety is the spice of life, and `mixing it up' a little is essential if you want a cat that can deal with change. Introduce new people, sights and sounds to your kitten. Make these changes in small doses and on a regular basis.

Think that you may want to get a dog or another cat in a few years? Have a friend with a gentle, calm dog or a well mannered cat over for a `meet and greet'. This can make the homecoming at a later date result in fewer `bent out of shape' whiskers.

You've heard the phrase - `curiosity killed the cat' but without environmental enrichment as a kitten, you will likely have the proverbial adult `scared-dy cat'. Curiosity instills intellect, and novel toys that engage cat's paws, as well as its brain, are key. Cats can be like children--they can bore easily with the same old toys, so change them on a regular basis.

Pet stores have a myriad of interactive toys, but you can also make them yourself. Take one card board box, cut a few small holes in its sides. Plop in one or two of your kitten's favorite toys and watch your kitten have a grand old time trying to figure out how to retrieve the prize inside.

Place a bird feeder outside your kitten's widow perch. This live entertainment will engage your cat for hours. Or try playing a video tape with programming made just for kitties.

Cats can be social, well adjusted members of the family. Start shaping the behaviors that you want and preventing those you don't the moment you bring your kitten home