Bringing Home a New Kitten

Bringing Home a New Bundle of Joy!

Bringing home a new cat or kitten can be a time of great excitement!  The steps you take to introduce your new kitten to your home can make a huge difference in how well he/she makes the adjustment.

Please remember that cats are creatures of habit. They like things to be predictable and the same from day to day. You will be taking your cat out of a familiar environment, putting him into a moving vehicle, then expecting him to adjust to new surroundings, new people and perhaps, new animals. This is a lot to ask; even the most easy-going cat is likely to be stressed and nervous. To make the transition as smooth as possible, take things slowly and give your cat plenty of time to get used to his new home.

Plan Ahead!!

• Make an appointment with your veterinarian to have your new cat examined. If possible, schedule the appointment so you can take your cat to the veterinarian immediately after picking him up.
• Make sure you have a sturdy pet carrier for the cat to ride in. When cats are nervous, they may feel more secure in an enclosed space. An unrestrained cat can be a real driving hazard, especially if she climbs down by the pedals, or jumps onto your shoulder. Having your cat in a carrier can also be helpful in case the cat vomits, urinates or defecates, which some cats will do if they are nervous.
• The sense of smell is very important to cats, and it will make them more comfortable to have something that smells like their former home. For kittens, it is especially helpful to take a towel or blanket the kitten has been sleeping on with you to his new home. Place the towel in the carrier for the ride home, and leave it in the carrier for your new pet to sleep on the first few days.
• Find out what food and litter the cat has had, and try to get the same brand. If you want to change brands later, slowly (over the course of a week) mix the new brand in with the old brand.
• Before you bring your new cat home, put his food, water, toys, scratching post, and litter pan in a quiet room you can close off. 

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Halloween Pet Safety Tips

Halloween is a wonderful time for tricks and treats!  

Here are a few tips and tricks to ensure that you and your four-legged friend have a safe and stress-free Halloween!

• Paws off!!  Keep your treats out of your pets reach. Chocolate can be toxic to pets (especially dark and baking chocolate).  Many other candies can be harmful and can make your pet sick.  If you suspect your pet has ingested something toxic, please call your local veterinarian or Animal Poison Control Center.
• Dressed Up, Stressed Out!!  You may think your pet is adorable in costume, but your pet may feel differently. If you sense that your pet is stressed from wearing the costume, please remove it for their safety.
• If your pet does enjoy wearing a costume; please make sure his/her costume is comfortable and does not obstruct vision, hearing, or restrict movement. Try to avoid anything around your pet's neck to prevent choking or strangling. Make sure the costume has no small parts or pieces that may be easily chewed off and swallowed.
• Glow in the Dark!! If your pet will be outside after dark, add reflective tape to your pet's costume.
• Leave Fido Home!!  Although it may seem like a good idea, please do not bring your dog along for trick-or-treating. The best-trained dogs can become spooked or aggressive in the noise and excitement of Halloween.
• Be alert when opening the door for trick-or-treaters. Make sure your pet does not escape out the front door.  You may want to put your pet in another room.
• Make sure your dog or cat has the proper identification.  If for any reason your pet escapes and becomes lost; a collar and tags and/or microchip can be a lifesaver, increasing the chances that he/she will be returned to you.

Please keep these tips in mind.   Have a happy and safe Halloween!!