Number 1 priority these days in catteries? Prevent the consequences of stress. This is of the utmost importance for kittens. Especially when they are leaving your cattery to go to their new owners’ place.
Key points
Kitten owners need to be educated about how they can optimize both the physical and mental health of their new pet.
The uterine environment during pregnancy has significant effects on the future behavior and development of the individual kitten, and a balanced diet for the pregnant queen is essential.
Human contact and handling are very important in kittens before 9 weeks of age, as this helps them to develop socially acceptable behaviors.
Hand-reared kittens appear to be more likely to develop fearful and aggressive traits towards both people and other cats, and show less aptitude for learning.
Stress and its consequences…
Stress leads to production of cortisol that decreases the efficiency of the immune system. Potential consequences? Upper resp, diarrhea, urinary problems, skin issues even… No doubt, it can dramatically impact the kitten’s health.
Something we should always try to prevent!
Fortunately there are a few things that can be done to prevent this from happening during the transport to the kitten’s new home:
- Make sure the kitten did not eat right before leaving. Especially when it is going to be a long ride home;
- Cats live in a world of odors: in the carrier that will be used, put a towel or something that belonged to the kitten and that carries its familiar scent. If you provide the carrier, you can even make sure that the kitten has spent some time inside before leaving your cattery;
- Use pheromones inside the carrier. It is recommended to put some (there are sprays and wipes) inside 15 minutes before leaving.
What are YOUR tips on the matter?
Those are simply tips that can help you win big here. And we believe it is something important to discuss with the new kitten owners beforehand. It should be one of your priorities, not a simple point of detail.
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