Best ways to transport cats long-distance

Cats are not fond of moving, that is a simple fact. Quite often, they tend to react by being irritable, scared, and even aggressive after relocation. The last thing you want is to regret taking this step in the first place. So, instead of just putting your cat in a car/on a plane and expecting that everything's going to be fine, you should make a thorough plan of your relocation with your pet. The first thing on your list is researching the best ways to transport cats long-distance.

Your pet's health is what matters the most

A visit to your cat's veterinarian is a good idea even if you are taking him on a holiday with you, let alone if you are moving long-distance with your feline. Make sure that your cat's health record and vaccinations are up to date and have your cat's health condition checked. Use this appointment to discuss some potential issues regarding your pet with the health professional. For instance, you can find out what their opinion about microchipping is because it can be rather useful in case your cat gets lost during the relocation. Also, you can ask your vet to recommend a colleague in your future hometown.

Your vet can also advise you on which type of transport they think would be the most suitable for your pet and what equipment to use for that purpose. Also, they will tell you whether sedating your pet for the trip is a good idea and how your cat can get a passport. After you solve all your dilemmas about your cat, you will be able to move with ease across the US, or even across the world.

The equipment - what to pick?

Your cat will need a leash and cat harness if you are taking him on a long-distance trip. At the airport, you will have to take your cat out of the carrier before it goes through an X-ray screening procedure and that's when he will have to be on a leash. In the car, letting your cat ramble around can be extremely unsafe for both of you. So, the leash and a harness are the first things you should buy and get your pet accustomed to. But, that's not all.

A carrier or a crate?

If you will be transporting your cat by plane, you will have to get a carrier. But before going to the store, you should check which model the airline company allows - soft or hard-sided ones. The dimensions of the carrier are crucial here too since you will have to put it underneath the seat of the person sitting in front of you. Some airlines are even exclusive about the brand they prefer.

Crates are bigger than carriers, but you can only use them if you are transporting your cat in a car. The most practical are those with more than one opening. Both carriers and crates should have enough room for your cat to turn around and stretch. Don't forget that you will have to fit in a litter box too.

Long-distance move - car vs. plane

Let's be honest - your cat will probably not enjoy any of the two types of transportation, but that's why you are there to make this process less stressful for your pet. Whatever you choose, remember not to feed your cat three to four hours before the trip to avoid motion sickness, but at the same time give your cat plenty of water to drink. That is an important step in preparation for a move.

Is a car the best way to transport cats long-distance?

If you don't feel comfortable about your cat being transported by plane, you will have to take a road trip with him. But, don't worry, this can be fun! As long as you choose the right equipment and respect the daily routines your pet has. Sure, the ride will take longer, but at least your best friend won't be traumatized once you arrive at your new home.

Don't even think about an all-night ride. They are neither safe for you nor pleasant for your cat. When planning a move, look for a hotel/motel where you can stop and rest for the night or two while moving long-distance. Once you find the one you would like to book, double-check whether they welcome cats since "pet-friendly" usually refers to dogs, and you wouldn't like to be unpleasantly surprised amid your trip.

Many cats are rather anxious about riding in a car. However, you can train them by taking short rides for several days before the long trip. Take their favorite toy with you as well. Here's the most important safety tip: your cat should be leashed or harnessed during the entire trip! You shouldn't be distracted while driving and your cat will be safe whenever you open the door or a window.

Or, should you opt for a plane?

Many vets will advise you to avoid transporting cats on a plane. But, if that's the only option you have, you should at least make sure that he is with you through the entire trip. That means transporting your cat in a cabin. Before you book the ticket, you should contact the airline company and inform them that you'll be traveling with a feline. Most companies are fine with that, but there is only a certain number of pets allowed on board at the same time, so you should book your ticket early. Also, consult the airline about the type of carrier you should have. Some companies allow soft-sided, while some will only let you use the hard-sided carriers.

Putting your cat in the cargo hold should be your last option. Unfortunately, many pets get stressed out or even injured while being taken on a trip this way. The cargo areas are rarely airconditioned which can be a problem for any creature traveling in them. Poor ventilation is also an issue.

Whenever you are traveling with your cat, you should make sure that he has a collar with your contact info on it. This is extremely important if you choose to transport cats long-distance on a plane.

Once you arrive at the destination

Don't expect your cat to love your new home right away. When you arrive, you should cat-proof your home before letting the cat out of the crate or carrier. Have a treat with you to reward your pet and to help them adjust to a new home more easily.

We hope we have helped you decide what the best ways to transport cats long-distance are. Enjoy your new home with your old friend, you deserve it!

Click on the pictures to see where it takes you and the links in the article.

Until our next cat convo

-MARTIN

Making your apartment cat friendly

Making your apartment cat-friendly is one of the best things that you can do for your cat. That is the only place they get to enjoy.

Cats seem like perfect apartment pets. Most cats rarely or never leave the house, which means that your home is their living space 24 hours a day. At first glance, you might think that having a cat inside is super easy and that it doesn’t take a lot of work. However, that cannot be further from the truth. Cats are very sensitive and emotional animals. They need certain things within their home to make them feel comfortable and taken care of. So, if you have a four-legged friend in your home, you must ask yourself how cat-friendly your apartment is. It is never a bad time to reassess your living space and show your cat some much-needed love, by making your apartment cat-friendly.

Making your apartment cat-friendly will take some creativity and effort

Tips for making your home into a more cat-loving space are important for all cat owners. Of course, your affection and attention are something that your cats need the most. Nevertheless, one of the ways to show them your love is to share your space with them. This doesn’t mean just letting your kitty roam wild around your apartment, but by making certain accommodations that will make your cat comfortable in your home. Especially if you recently moved, you will need to pay extra attention to your furball. Making your apartment cat-friendly is the best possible way of helping your cat adjust to your new home. Here is how you can be the best possible cat parent and share your beloved home with your best friend.

Your cat's behavior will be your best indicator in which changes you should make within your living space.

Create more space for your cat

Nobody expects you to make an extra room for your cat. Of course, you will work with whatever space you have within your apartment. But adding verticality specifically for your cat is a great way to create additional and useful space for your pet. Having your cat use shelves that aren’t meant for that use might not be the best idea. Your cat might get injured and your things may get damaged. But you can find great solutions in the form of cat furniture. There are many cat trees, cat shelves, and other cat toys that can be a great addition to your home. This way, you will allow your cat to be more adventurous and confident. Also, you will provide much-needed space for exercise, since most cats never leave your home.

Give your kitty a cozy chill place 

We all have a little room or a corner within our home that we consider our personal sanctuary and our go-to spot. Well, the same goes for your cat. Don’t think that the expectations are any less. So, if you are serious about making your apartment cat-friendly, make sure you have a nice little place reserved only for your feline. That way, you will give your cat a special place where it can feel secure and comfortable. It is like giving your kid their own room. Everybody needs their own space. This is particularly important if your cat is shy and you just moved to a new home. Moving with pets can be simple if you take similar steps and make your pet at ease with their new surroundings.

Give your cat their own corner. This will be their favorite place where they feel secure and happy.

Don’t forget the view 

Very often, you will see your cat chilling on your window. It is hard to know what they are thinking. But one thing is for sure: it looks like something fun. Thus, don’t deprive your cat of a wonderful view. Make sure your kitty has a nice window seat. Maybe your neighbors are more interesting than you thought.

Even cats appreciate a nice bathroom space 

Surely, you don’t like when your cat’s litter box is smelly and dirty. Well, be certain that your cats also don’t appreciate such a sight. Many cats will refuse to go into a litter box that is not well-maintained. Thankfully, there are many new accessories that can help you in maintaining your cat bathroom hygiene.

Modern litter boxes are designed not to spread odors. Some litter sucks in bad smells, and you can buy many deodorants that keep the litter box and the room it is in fresh. But you should also make sure you position the litter box in the proper room. This room should have regular ventilation and normal levels of humidity. Your cat’s litter box is something that marks his or her territory. This is very important, especially if you keep your cat and dog in the same apartment. Marking specific territories for each pet is one of the best ways to get your cat and dog to get along. Thus, if your heart is set on making your apartment cat-friendly, provide your cat with the perfect litter box in a place they like.

If you have multiple pets in your apartment, make sure that each pet has their own territory and space. This way there is a greater chance that all your pets will get along.

Making your apartment cat-friendly can only be achieved if you know your cat 

Only cat owners can understand how different it is being a cat parent in comparison to taking care of other pets. Of course, it is very convenient that you don’t have to take them outside for a walk and they usually don’t take up too much of your space. Yet, they are very emotional and sensitive creatures. They have very specific needs which are both emotional and physical. Every cat has their own attitude, confidence and, personality. As a cat owner, you should know what your cat needs in order to be happy. By watching their behavior and demeanor you will know exactly which adjustments need to be made to your home, to cover all your cat's wants.

More than anything, show them love and attention 

Making your apartment cat-friendly is what every responsible cat owner should do. But, don’t think that your duties to your furry friend end there. Making your home into a feline-friendly space is a big undertaking. Your cat will surely feel the difference once you are done. However, all changes within your home will not matter unless you show your cat some love. Just like any other living and breathing thing, cats also like to feel attention and appreciation. Buying cat toys will not make up for the time you neglected your cat. So, show your cat your devotion and care. You will be thrilled when you receive it in return as well. All your efforts will be well worth it.

Click on the pictures to see where it takes you and the links in the article.

Until our next cat convo

-MARTIN

How To Best Change Your Cat's Food To A New Brand

Cat owners may have many reasons for wanting to change the food they feed their pets. Oftentimes, it is needed because of a medical condition and was recommended by their veterinarian. Another reason may be that your ca’s current food is no longer available for sale. No matter what your reason is, transitioning cat food needs to be done slowly to ensure your cat doesn’t get sick or have any adverse reactions.

Why Gradually Change Cat’s Food?

When you suddenly change the food your cat eats, it could cause stomach issues such as reduced appetite, diarrhea and vomiting. Cats are creatures of habit. Changing their food too quickly will not end very well. Starving your pet into eating new food they don’t like will not be good for their health. They can end up developing a “fatty liver” or hepatic lipidosis. This could be life-threatening and painful to your cat.

Changing Your Cat’s Food Safely

The best way to transition your cat’s food to a new brand or type is to gradually make the change over a week or more. When you gradually increase the new food each day and gradually decrease their old food at the same time, the risk of your cat getting sick or having digestive issues will be significantly reduced. In some cases, you may not have the ability to change slowly.

If your cat is picky about what food they eat and you are changing their food, the best cat foods to transition with are ones that are similar to their old foods. Begin by adding small amounts of the new food to their current food and watch how they respond. Give them 30 minutes to eat what they want and remove the bowl. If all goes well, you will have successfully transitioned to the new food effectively and safely in just a week. We’d highly recommend Solid Gold cat food if your cat doesn’t have any prior preferences.

Some cats may not make the change easily because they are very picky about what they eat and don’t like changes. These cats will require more time and patience on your part. The changes will need to be slower in this case until they get used to the taste and texture of the new food. It is best during the transition to set aside specific feeding times to ensure they are hungry enough to eat what they are given. If you allow for free-feeding when transitioning, your cat may take their time and pick out the old food and leave the new food.

Progressively Changing From One Kibble to Another

Many cat owners find themselves unsatisfied with the way one kibble is suiting their pet. Some are concerned about the quality. Others worry that their cat’s health may be at risk. Unhealthy weight gain/loss, hair loss, changes in behavior, and more are symptoms of malnutrition. If your cat is suffering from any of these problems, it’s a good indication that it’s time to begin experimenting with a new kibble. This should be done in 10% increments to slowly allow the cat/pet to adjust to the new food. Speeding up this process will result in a much higher chance of diarrhea or other things. To assure that your cat maintains proper health, this transition should be made over the course of at least one month.

Transitioning Your Cat To Wet Food From Dry

It can be more difficult to transition your cat from dry food to wet food. Unfortunately, some older cats and those with teeth or digestive issues will be required to make this change for their health. Changes that result in significant texture changes will be difficult for some cats. There are a few tricks to take into consideration for making the change easier. Try to sprinkle some of their dry food kibbles on top of the new wet food during feedings.

This process will allow your cat to get used to the smell of wet food while gradually making the change. After a few days, mix the dry food in with the wet food. You may also choose to grind up the dry food and mix it with the wet food to get some of the flavor mixed in. This may make the new food more palatable for your cat and entice them to give it a try.

If your cat is not giving in to the new wet food easily, try a little exercise or playtime for 10-15 minutes before feeding time. This will get them hungry and more likely to eat the food they are given. It can help them accept new food faster. Any food transition, whether wet or dry, will need to be done carefully. Pay attention to your cat's behavior and note any changes to your veterinarian.

Click on the pictures to see where it takes you and the links in the article.

Until our next cat convo

-MARTIN

How to Help Cats Adjust to a New Home

When planning a move, you go through many different stages and almost all of them are followed by stress. Unfortunately, you are not the only one that goes through the relocation struggles. Your family and pets also go through it. Nevertheless, moves can sometimes be very difficult for your kids. And of course, let’s not forget about your pets. So, you are not the only one that needs to adjust to a new home. Sometimes cats may go through a very difficult time during and after a move. As a cat mom or dad, you are responsible for your beloved furball. You are their number one supporter and they will need your help during this tough time.

Things that you can do to help your cat adjust to a new home

We must put it out there from the start. Just like people, cats have different personalities and attitudes. Therefore, no two cats will react to a move in the same manner. However, one thing is certain. They all need love and attention from their owners. Moving with cats is rarely a piece of cake, so here is what you can do to make things easier for your furry buddy.

Let your cat familiarize with your new home gradually

Cats are animals that are very much connected to their surroundings. They love the familiar and they might be shocked once you change their home. Introducing them immediately to the entire home at once might be a bit much. Your cat will adjust to a new home much better if you take things slow. Start with one room. Place the litter box, cat furniture, cat toys and everything else your cat loves into the chosen room. This will be your kitties’ new nest, at least for starters. Once you notice that your cat is feeling nice and cozy in this room, you can slowly expand the familiarization with the rest of the house.

What about kittens?

We went over what to do with grown cats when moving, but what about the babies? Moving baby cats or kittens is a totally different story. When bringing a kitten into a new home or around new people, a two-week quarantine is always a great idea. They are super cute, but they are also very sensitive and fragile. Thus, they need extra love and care.

Once you choose the first room your cat will get to know, make sure their bad is in it. This will give your cat a clear indication of where to start their adjustment.

Respect your cat’s feelings

Once you move into your new home, your cat might go into hiding. Another option is the lack of interaction. While you want to cuddle and snuggle, your cat might want to do the opposite. As silly as it might sound, respect your cat’s mood. Are you used to running around the house and jumping with your cat? Just having good old fun. Well, that type of exercise with your pet was in your old home. Give it some time to get comfortable. Once it does, you can bring back your favorite activities.

Make sure your new home is cat-friendly

Before your cat starts adjusting to a new home, you must make sure your new space is not only comfortable and cozy for you, but also for your little friend. As a cat mommy or daddy, you must think upfront what your cat needs to be safe and happy. Check your new home for everything that can be a hazard for your feline buddy. Do you have any hazardous or sharp items left lying around from the move? Is there a crawl space that a cat can use to get outside? Do you have any poisonous plants in the garden? Do your best to think one step ahead.

What every cat parent wants is for their furry baby to be cozy and comfortable. For that to happen you might need to put in some extra effort.

Tag your cat

Unfortunately, pets sometimes get lost. It causes both you and the pet massive heartache. In case that occurs, you want your cat’s information to be up to date. If their microchip contains your old info, there is no guarantee you will get your precious kitten back. So, once a friendly neighbor or a pedestrian finds your pet they will know exactly on which door to knock if your information is up to date.

Your kitten might love being outside, so if you insist on taking it out for a walk we recommend that you use a leash. Exploring on their own might not be the best idea.

How long will it take your cat to adjust to a new home?

This is a very simple question, that is regrettably very difficult to answer. Yet, there is a simple explanation of why the answer varies. Every cat is different and therefore you cannot predict their reaction to your move. That is why you need to keep a close eye on it after you move. Would you keep a close eye on your kids after a move? You sure would because you are a loving parent. Well, the same goes for your four-legged children. Make this a priority. It will be hard for you because you will be overwhelmed with unpacking and settling in, but you cannot backseat this obligation.

Don’t avoid using your cat carrier

It is no secret that some cats hate being put in a cat carrier. Thus, it might break your heart to hear their displeasure once you close the door of the carrier. Just remember, it is for their own safety and protection. Just to be on the safe side, put your cat in the carrier once the moving crew arrives at your home. So, kitty’s movement should be restricted during loading, transportation, and unloading. Once the moving crew leaves your new home, it is your call whether you will let the cat out right away. Before you open those doors and let your baby out, make sure it is safe.

Signs that your cat is under severe stress

In the end, you will need to put in some effort to make sure that your cat adjusts to a new home. It is important that you are able to recognize if your cat is not being their usual self. Most common stress indicators are:

• Extreme vocalization 

• Excessive scratching 

• Hiding or dodging interaction 

• Panting 

• Runny nose or/and eyes 

• Unusual aggression

These are the most common indicators that something is not right with your cat. However, you will know best if something is wacky because you know your cat best. As mentioned, cats love things that they recognize. They give them comfort and make them feel safe. One thing that your cat knows best is you. Even if it is for a few minutes a day, pay attention to your cat. What needs the most is your love and support.

Click on the pictures to see where it takes you and the links in the article.

Until our next cat convo

-MARTIN

5 Ways to Make Your Dogs and Cats Get Along

The conflict between cats and dogs is a known fact. It was even evident in the popular cartoon series Tom and Jerry produced by William Hannah and Joseph Barbera. 

However, plenty of pet owners testify to their cats and dogs getting along quite well, despite popular beliefs. Hence, it’s possible for the two species to get along, and become good buddies. 

According to pet experts at Dog Academy, they demonstrate the ability to get along only if they’ve had a previous experience of living with another species. Since both the animals communicate quite differently when it comes to expressing themselves, confusion may ensue. 

Regardless, we are here to show you exactly what you can do to let the two different genera of animals live together harmoniously. So enjoy!

1. It’s Easier When They are Young

A puppy and a kitten can get along easily since they had no previous bad experiences with other species. Also, because of their young age, they will welcome anything and anybody with open arms. 

As they grow up together, they will develop a deep friendship. You should consider the breed of the dog and the cat, and make sure they match size. That is because if the puppy is too big, it may harm the tiny kitten. 

Moreover, playtime can get too rough for the kitten as the pup grows up. In an effort to teach the pup to respect the kitten, instead of chasing it, give it a toy to pursue. 

2. Patience is the Key

Don’t expect your pooch and your kitten to be friends at first sight. They need a few days to a week to sense each other out, and get closer. 

Since pets are territorial, you can’t force them to get along. They have to get to know each other at their own paces. 

If they are living in the same house, they are bound to run into each other. Talk to them softly, and use toys to invite them to play together. 

You can also let them meet each other from across a pet gate. Since a dog is more hyper and aggressive, don’t let it get too close to the cat. 

Some pet owners prefer to leash their dogs when they are meeting cats for the first few times. It is important that you supervise when they are together at least for the first few days. 

3. A Cat Needs Its Own Territory

A cat’s personality and preferences differ greatly to that of a dog. A cat needs to feel safe in her territory without having to worry about a dog wanting to be friends. This is due to its territorial nature. 

Therefore, it will be your job to teach your dog to respect a cat’s boundaries. Use commands whenever you see your dog crossing its boundaries. 

It’s better to let the two animals eat and sleep separately. They will learn more about each other by sniffing the scent left by the other. As they get more used to the other animal, their fears towards each other will also melt away. 

In all honesty, it actually depends on the cat to accept the dog. A dog would normally accept the other animal easily, but the cat takes time to analyze the dog before fully accepting it as its family. 

Some pet owners rub a towel on their dog, then let their cat smell it. Initially, the cat may not react specifically to the unfamiliar scent. When this is done a few times over, the cat relaxes to the scent. 

4. Cradle the Cat When Introducing to the Dog

Once you feel like they have both sniffed each other’s presence, it’s time to let them get a little bit closer. Cradle your cat in your arms, and bring it closer to the dog so they can both see each other. 

However, don’t let go of your cat, as this may frighten her. Your cat may respond in a variety of ways, while you introduce it to the dog. If it shuts away from the dog, take it slow. 

They may stare at each other, and try to understand the other’s scent. But be mindful of your cat’s reactions throughout the procedure. Finally, give them both treats for taking the attempt to get along. 

Furthermore, whatever you do, keep the cat in your arms ensuring it that you won’t let her go. Give the cat a chance to understand its canine family member while being held safely in your arms. 

5. Give Your Cat a Place to Escape to

As you make progress by following the steps discussed below, gradually you should let your cat and dog roam around the house as they please. But you have to give your cat a place to escape to, just in case your dog becomes aggressive or clingy. 

Bring a cat tree where your cat can escape to whenever it feels threatened by the dog. It can also attempt to climb up furniture in the house to stay away from the dog. 

When this happens, just let it. Forcing the cat to hang out with the dog may not be your cat’s cup of tea. 

Additionally, you can spay or neuter both your dog and cat, since sometimes hormones are responsible for making dogs aggressive. You should also not let your dog get close to your cat’s space, food or the litter box. Your cat won’t feel good about the situation if her personal space is invaded by the dog. 

Final Thoughts

As you follow the steps, you will allow a sweet bond to create between the two pets. It may not happen in a few weeks, and may take more time. Hence, it’s better to research about the potential of your dog and cat getting along before deciding to purchase a combo like this. 

Whether you are a cat person or a dog person, you can do a research on what sort of pet can adjust to living with another animal better. However, those cute videos of cats and dogs on YouTube are not lies. 

If your cat and dog can manage to get along eventually, it will be the sweetest thing ever. And you will be the one uploading videos of them doing cute things together!

Click on the pictures to see what kittens we currently have available.

Until our next cat convo

-MARTIN

Growing Kitty Week Nine - Twelve

Almost Time to Bring Kitty Home

Now that we are ending the major developmental stages in a kittens life, it is time to prepare them for their new home. In weeks nine through twelve, we will go through what is necessary for them to leave the nest. 

Livin' It Up

Now the kittens are fully weaned, litter box trained, and look more like adult cats. They won't be having any major growth spurts in the next few weeks but rather filling out and gaining muscle tone. Their baby teeth should all be in place and their eyes should be changing to their permanent color. They are moving their body more similar to an adult which includes a hunting like behavior and pouncing on their fellow litter-mates. Also, they start reacting to certain substances like cat grass and catnip. This is the time you really can interact with them and introduce them to other pets and friends. Cat trees are also recommended at this time because their nails should be at the point of needing cut. This shouldn't be much of an issue as long as you have messed with their paws enough as young kittens. I think the easiest way is to grab a friend and one hold while the other cuts, or since I am alone most of the time when doing this I just sit them in my lap for a mani-pedi. 

Vaccines and Surgery Time

Most say that 10 weeks old is safe for spay and neuter and this is true. However, we like to spay and neuter our kittens at 12 weeks. The reason for this is because when the kittens get taken to the vet we do not want them to think the vet is a bad place. This being said we like to give the rabies vaccination, spay or neuter, blood work, and any other vaccine or testing all done at the same time while they are under anesthesia. When they wake up they will not remember all of the extra things done so it's not so bad. They get a cozy home for the night with a treat and get to come home the next morning. By 12 weeks all of our kittens will have had their FVRCP vaccines, spayed or neutered, first-year rabies vaccination, dewormed, microchipped, and the first month of Revolution for prevention. Between 13 and 14 weeks the kittens should be ready for their new home. We keep them for an additional ten days to see out the healing process of surgery but other than that they are ready to go.

My New Home

When adopting a kitten, it is important to have your home ready for your new baby. Depending on where you are adopting your kitten from you will need to check with your breeder, veterinarian, or local shelter to help prepare for the new kitten. A few things you might ask would be:

• What type of food has my kitten been eating? This is important. If you all of a sudden change the type of food they are eating it can easily upset their bellies and cause loose stool.
• How often is my kitten being fed and what times? Remember the kittens do best on a schedule so for the first few weeks try and gradually adjust them to your lifestyle and what will work best for you long term. 
• What kind of litter is my kitten used to? Make sure that the kittens only use a natural non-clumping litter. 
• Can I have some sort of toy, blanket or towel that my kitten has had to keep my kitten comfortable when coming to its new home? When your kitten arrives at its new home it is going to be much different from what it has been used to. Smell, noises, tastes. It is nice for the kitten to have something that is familiar to it from before so it can help calm their nerves and realize its new home isn't so bad after all. 

These are just some basic things to ask for when adopting a new kitten. We also recommend that you keep the kitten in a small area at first so it doesn't get lost. Keep a litter box, food, and water dish nearby so it isn't scared to use the potty or get something to snack on. It is also important to keep the kitten warm. Being in a new environment can cause the kitten stress. When kittens stress their immune systems can weaken making it easier for them to catch a cold or get sick. Staying warm can help with that and we use small heating pads for all of our kittens. They like it nice and cozy. And most important have fun with your new kitten. Once it gets settled in it will be full of energy and wanting lots of attention! 

I will go into more detail about preparing your home for your new kitten in a later blog post but this gives you a pretty good idea. 

What are some of your favorite kitty toys?

Until Our Next Cat Convo

-Amanda

Growing Kitty Week Six, Seven, and Eight

Happy New Year!

Hello 2018. Just wanted to say Happy New Year to all of our friends, followers and fellow cat lovers! This year we have some awesome things in store that we can't wait to share! Cheers to a New Year!

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Week Six, Seven, and Eight

We are starting to wrap up on the major developmental stages so I am combining these next three weeks together. Many things are still changing but not as in depth as the first few weeks. 

Week Six

In week six the kittens are running, playing, pouncing, and entertaining everyone around including themselves. They are learning how to do things on their own so mom gets a little break. Kittens should be eating four small meals a day and fully trained to use the litter box. Their teeth are coming in nicely and their eye color can start to change this week. Vaccinations are considered safe at six weeks of age but some vets prefer to wait until 8 weeks. We vaccinate at 6, 9, and 12 weeks, that way by the time the kitten is ready for its new home it is fully vaccinated for the first year. 

Week Seven

The Kittens should be completely weaned by this time. They can groom themselves as well as each other which makes their sibling bond stronger. They should be mostly self-sufficient but run to mom and each other for comfort and relaxation. At this time, it is also important to start messing with their paws and ears as well as introducing them to grooming. Running water and using normal household items are good to start at an early age. These noises can be frightening so this will help ease them into the idea of bath time. 

Week Eight

Week eight has a lot going on. This week they should be weighing in around 2 pounds which is said to be safe enough to spay or neuter them. We like to alter the kittens at 12 weeks just because most things can be done at one time which makes it less stressful on the kittens. Their teeth should be aligned where they need to be and are as sharp as ever. Kittens are completely weaned and will start to look more like adult cats. They will not grow nearly as fast as in the prior weeks, but will more or less start to fill out and develop muscle tone from all that horsin' around. Kittens should be kept on a routine just like children, sleeping and eating around the same time every day. Socializing is still very important and if a kitten is unsocial at this age it will be very difficult to get it to come around but it can be done with some time and patience, especially with higher generation savannah's. 

Show us some of your growing kitty pictures!

Until Our Next Cat Convo

- Amanda

Growing Kitty Week Five

Well Hello Week Five

Week five the kittens are becoming more and more dependent. They are starting to eat solid foods and should be mostly litter box trained now. Running and playing with their litter mates is on top of the priority list. 

Mom I Got This

Starting at week five moms will start weaning their kittens. This will be a slow process over a period of several weeks so mom still needs to be around. Kittens should be introduced small amounts of wet food. The food needs to be a high-quality food that mom should already be accustomed to. Make sure it is specified for kittens or all life stages and the ingredients are things you can actually read. It is always best if the first ingredient is meat like turkey or chicken and not a byproduct. With Savannahs, we recommend a high protein food but all cats are obligate carnivores so more protein will never hurt any domestic cat. The kittens will watch and learn from their moms when it comes to eating wet food. They will mock what she does as she is the best teacher.

Spaz-tastic

Kittens are very rambunctious and their balance is much better now. They are running and playing with all of their litter mates and mom even joins in on the fun. They are very curious and are getting into anything and everything. Kittens also are trying everything they can get in their mouths so it is important to have any harmful substances put away. This would include any cleaner or chemical, small objects as well as any clumping litter. Don't forget that the kittens need to have a natural litter that will not upset their bellies if ingested.  

See Me Now

Week five the kittens eye sight is completely developed. They are stabilizing on all four legs and using their tail to balance them out. They can now retract their claws at will so make sure you start playing and massaging their paws so they are used to nail trims. They are about 18-20 ounces now and their premolars are starting to come in making it much easier to chew that new solid food. Socializing the kittens is still very important and should have playtime for at least 2-3 hours per day. 

What type of kitten food do you feed your babies?

Until Our Next Cat Convo

-Amanda