January 28, 2008
Bonding with a New Kitten
Most people are so excited when a new kitten enters the home. They want to provide the best care possible, and they also wish to form a special attachment with a pet they expect to keep for a lifetime. Just a few simple tips will help create a strong bond between the kitten and its new owner.
First, a constant grooming routine will aid in forming the attachment. Brushing gives the new kitty a shinny smooth coat, but it does more than that. As the owner brushes and strokes the kitten, it adapts to his touch and smell. For the first few weeks, it would be best to stay away from perfumes or to wear the same one when grooming the new animal.
By taking the time to train a new kitten to allow its teeth to be brushed, the owner not only establishes a healthy habit, but he also gains the trust of the newest member of the family.
Next, in order to form a special relationship with a kitten, an owner must take the time for some form of play each day. He might choose to use toys, balls, scarves, or his own socks, but he need to spend some time actually physically involved in a cat’s natural play responses. This might even be as simple as lying in the floor while the cat plays with his hair, sniffs his toes, or jumps across his belly.
Finally, a kitten needs to feel secure in his new environment. Owners might achieve this goal by preparing a place where the kitten is always fed. The kitten needs to see the owner physically prepare the food and put it into the dish. A safe snuggly place to sleep should also be made available. If a cushion, blanket, or towel is used, it is nice if it has been handled by the new owner so that his smell still lingers.
Many other factors can add to the ease of bonding between a kitten and its new owner, but as long as the owner demonstrates love and slowly allows the animal to adjust, the two can become lifelong companions.



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