For some kittens, this settling in period might be over within hours, while for others it could take days or even weeks. For very timid cats, the process could even take 4 to 6 weeks. Just rest assured that this is normal, and be patient.
Where should my kitten sleep on the first night? In the first few nights, have your kitten close to you in a warm and cosy spot next to your bed. Kittens like to feel sheltered and secure so putting them above the ground, if possible, can also make them feel safer.
Some kittens bond with their caretakers in a matter of days, while others need more time to feel comfortable. Kittens that are more fearful or timid might need several weeks to bond with you. No matter how long it takes, the key is to be patient and continue going through the steps to connect with your kitten.
Bring home the comforting scent of his current home by petting his mother and siblings if they are present. Better yet, bring along a towel and rub his family members or even the inside of his kennel to carry these old scents to your kitty's new home. Familiar smells warm the heart and steady the nerves.
In general, a kitten between 8 weeks to 4 months can be left alone for about 4 hours. After 6 months, they can spend close to 8 hours on their own.
Kittens are often very anxious during their first night and it's normal for them to cry during the following two or three nights too. Here are some tips to help your kitten relax. For their health and well-being, kittens need a lot of sleep in a quiet place where they can relax and feel secure.
It's almost inevitable that your kitten will cry for at least the first couple of nights when you bring them home. Remember, they've just been removed from their mum and littermates and they're bound to feel a little bit lonely. The best thing you can do is keep your kitten feeling as safe and warm as possible.
In conclusion, when your cat meows at night, you must ignore it completely and perfectly in order not to encourage the behaviour. Keeping the cat busy at night may prevent it from getting hungry or finding creative ways of getting your attention.
No Yelling, Threatening, Or Physical Punishment.
Punishment teaches a kitten nothing, except how to avoid the punishment. It is far better, and far more humane, to teach the kitten what to do rather than to punish it for something it is doing.
To earn a kitten's trust, speak to it gently in a loving manner. Provide it everything it needs, including food, water, a cozy crate, and a litter box. Bring your kitten treats and interact with it regularly. Over time, you and your cat will develop a happy, trusting relationship.
Cats, while often independent creatures, still crave attention and love, in addition to their obvious nutritional needs of fresh water, clean litter, and food. If you decide to bring a cat or kitten into your home, you should be prepared to spend at least 20 minutes a day giving your cat loving one-on-one attention.
It is advisable to bring the kitten home with some bedding; this will act as a familiar object when everything else is new. The initial twenty-four hours should be a calm period of adjustment so it's probably best for any children in the household to understand that the kitten should be left alone for a while.
Please note: A cat should never be locked out all night. Also, ensure that cats have access to shelter in the day time, either providing a kennel or access to a shed. Even simpler would be to put in a microchip cat flap which only lets cats in that have their chips programmed into the cat flap register.
In general, a happy, healthy, well-adjusted kitty shouldn't need nightly crating. If your kitten or cat is having difficulty making proper use of its litter box, it might be best to keep your cat in a crate at night while you train her to use the litter box.
Play and exercise. An exhausted kitten is more likely to sleep through the night. Schedule a play session close to their last nap of the day so they can exhaust all the extra energy before going to bed.
Kittens younger than six months are developing rapidly both mentally and physically and crave a strong bond with their humans. Being separated from them for long periods leads to loneliness and anxiety, resulting in various health and behavioural problems.
Kittens under 4 months old should not be left on their own for more than 4 hours at a time. If because of your lifestyle, your cat will need to get used to time alone, begin training your kitten by gradually increasing the amount of time you are out of the house.
Food will play an essential role in kitten socialization. Offer them “treats” often. It is especially effective to offer them a couple of spoonfuls of human baby food a day (meat only). Kittens LOVE baby food! Start by putting a little bit of baby food on their mouth or nose if they will not come to you.
Your new cat will need to be in their safe room for at least three days, but some may need longer. Once you feel your cat is comfortable and confident in their room, it's time to open the door and let them explore the rest of the home. We suggest doing this one room at a time.
No matter what, you shouldn't ignore your cat's vocalizations because they can be indicating that there is something wrong. However, if your cat is meowing because they desire food or attention, you can refuse to indulge in this behavior. Do not give your pet their food until they stop meowing.
Kittens younger than four months of age should not be left alone for more than a couple of hours. Over four months, they can handle up to five hours. When they turn six months, they should be able to handle your 8-hour workday. Keep in mind that each cat is unique.
Key Takeaways: On the first night, your kitten should sleep with you ( in your room or bed is ok) However, if you have a newborn kitten or a very small kitten is best to not sleep with them as you could squish them. Before bedtime, play with your new kitten!