| As
creatures of habit, cats thrive on routine. They sleep in the
same sunny spots during the day, gaze from the same window at the
outside world and eat the same food day after day. Now that you've
introduced your new kitten to your home, you'll need to establish a
regular feeding routine that works with your schedule and helps
maintain your pets good health. Follow these tips to make mealtime
manageable and meet your kittens needs.
1.
Maintain your kittens
current
diet. When you first bring home your new pet, feed him the same food he
was eating at his previous home. If you plan to change the food, do so
gradually, mixing it with the kittens current diet. A sudden change can
cause upset stomach and diarrhea.
2.
Feed a high-quality,
complete kitten
diet. Such foods are specially formulated to meet the kittens unique
nutritional needs, containing the proper balance of protein, vitamins
and minerals. Your veterinarian can help you choose a food appropriate
for your new pet.
3.
Consider your pets tendency
to eat
small amounts at a time. Don't interpret your kittens habit of nibbling
small amounts as finicky eating behavior. Ask your veterinarian if you
should leave food out at all times, or offer small amounts several
times a day.
4.
Feed your kitten at the same
time
and same place each day. Your pet will quickly adjust to a feeding
schedule. Start now to establish regular eating times this can help
prevent future 4 a.m. wake-up calls from your pet!
5.
Provide plenty of fresh
water at all
times. In addition to a nutritionally complete food, your new pet needs
access to fresh water to help maintain his health.
6.
Don't offer treats from the
table.
Human foods can upset your kittens stomach and also upset the
nutritional balance provided by his regular food. Over time, too many
treats can also cause your pet to gain weight.
|
Domestic
Cat
