How to Care for Your New Kitten

Authored by the Pet Expert Team 

First, start socialization early. Very early. The most important socialization period for kittens is between two to seven weeks old; it’s how they learn to take care of themselves and interact with people and other pets in the future. That being said, it’s a good idea to take it slow when introducing your kitten to other cats and pets in the household. Introducing your kitten to children similarly focuses on taking it slowly and emphasizing gentle interactions, and we detail more specific advice in our article. 

Authored by the Pet Expert Team 

There are many reasons why a kitten might not want to eat, like not feeling well (due to illness, vaccinations, or teething, for example), stress around change in food or housing, or general pickiness. We break these down and give next steps if your kitten stops eating in our article. 

Authored by the Pet Expert Team 

Yes, every cat and kitten needs vaccinations, especially if they go outside or are around other cats. Visit our article to find out why and which vaccinations they need. 

Authored by Dr. Annie Valuska, Purina Pet Behaviorist

Kittens need at least two to three 10-minute play sessions each day, though you can usually tell from your kitten’s behavior if they’re getting enough! 

Authored by Dr. Annie Valuska, Purina Pet Behaviorist

The best toys for a kitten are the ones they’re willing to play with. Experiment with toys of different sizes, textures (furry, feathery, fabric, smooth, etc.), noises, and movement patterns (e.g., through the air, along the ground, towards or away from the kitten, hiding and reappearing, etc.) until you find the combination that gets your kitten excited to play! 

Authored by the Pet Expert Team 

It depends. When making the decision to get pet insurance, it’s important to consider the cost, the coverage, your budget, your pet’s current health and more. For more detailed advice on insuring your cat or kitten, visit our guide. 
 

Authored by the Pet Expert Team 

It can be common for kittens to be shy or hide from you, based on their personality, health, previous socialization and experiences leading up to this point. If you’re wondering why your kitten may be afraid of you or how you might bond with them, we’ve compiled information and advice on how you may help in our article. 

Authored by Dr. RuthAnn Lobos, Purina Veterinarian

Absolutely, cats can go outside! It’s great for their enrichment, but it needs to be done with supervision and restraint — a harness and leash is best. It’s also important for them to have their full rounds of vaccinations. Internal and external parasite prevention medication is also critical, even if they stay indoors all the time. Fleas, ticks, mosquitoes and other pests can make their way inside your house and put your unprotected cats at risk.