5 Key Kitten Questions Answered for New Owners

Kittens are adorable, but caring for them requires different knowledge than for adult cats. If you9re thinking of bringing a kitten home, below are five important questions and answers to guide you in giving your new pet the best start.

1. When is the best age to get a kitten?

Kittens should ideally stay with their mother until 10 to 12 weeks of age to ensure proper socialisation and health. While some rescues and private sellers may let kittens go home as early as eight weeks, earlier separation can lead to behaviour and health issues since important development and conditioning occur with the mother and littermates.

For kitten buyers seeking pedigree kittens, reputable breeders usually keep kittens until they9re at least twelve weeks old, as this allows time for necessary vaccinations which typically start at 12 weeks. Patience at this stage is crucial for a well-adjusted, healthy kitten who will be part of your family for many years.

2. Are all kittens born with blue eyes?

Yes, kittens are born with blue or bluish-grey eyes because their irises are not fully developed. The true eye colour generally begins to change from four to five weeks of age and continues gradually until sometimes as late as six to nine months. Breed influences permanent eye colour; for example, Siamese kittens retain blue eyes, while others may develop green, gold, or copper hues.

While it9s commonly believed that all blue-eyed white cats are deaf, this is only true for some. Blue-eyed white kittens should be tested for hearing to ensure their wellbeing, but many hear perfectly normally.

3. Is it true that string and balls of yarn are dangerous for kittens?

Strings, yarn, and craft items can be hazardous to kittens. Teething kittens often chew on these materials and may swallow lengths of string or wool, risking intestinal blockages that require emergency veterinary surgery.

Kittens also can become tangled, which might cause injury or strangulation. Therefore, it's vital to supervise play with such toys and always store them securely when not in use. Avoid leaving ribbons, gift wrap, knitting projects, and plastic bags accessible to curious kittens. Using covered bins helps prevent rummaging accidents.

4. How should I introduce a new kitten to my older cats?

Introducing a new kitten should be a slow, supervised process to avoid stress for all involved. Instead of leaving the kitten loose immediately, place them in a secure metal pen in the shared living space so resident cats can see and smell the newcomer safely.

Over several days, supervised short visits can gradually increase. Feeding separately and allowing retreat to the pen helps the kitten feel secure. Initial cautious sniffing and hissing are normal. Patience is key to a harmonious multi-cat household.

5. Can wild-born kittens be tamed into good pets?

Wild-born or feral kittens can often be socialised successfully if rescued young and handled gently. The earlier in life they are rescued, the better their chances to adjust to domestic life. Older feral adults are much less likely to adapt.

Domestic cats that have become feral usually wish to return to a home environment and, with patience, can also make loving companions. If you9re adopting from outdoors, working with a local rescue or vet guidance can help ensure a smooth transition.

Enjoy your new kitten, who will grow quickly and bring years of joy when raised with care and kindness.