Summer Kitten Care

While we may still have a few weeks left before the official start of summer, things are already pretty hot around here. If you’ve just adopted—or perhaps been adopted by—a kitten, you’ll need to keep an extra close eye on little Fluffy over the next few months. Baby cats are extremely fragile, and can get into trouble very quickly in hot weather. A Metairie, LA vet offers some seasonal kitten care tips below.

Tiny Shadow

Kittens often think of their humans as second parents. It may not take long for little Fluffy to decide that she doesn’t want to let you out of her sight. The danger here is that it’s easy for cats to follow their people into places like sheds, garages, and attics, and then get left behind. Keep a close eye on your pint-sized stalker!

Keep Fluffy Indoors

This one really applies all year long. We can’t overstate how much safer Fluffy is when she’s kept inside. Kittens are particularly vulnerable outdoors, because they can easily get lost or hurt. They’re also more at risk from some predators, such as snakes and birds of prey, than adult cats are. If your feline pal is a baby, you have the upper hand, as you can just raise her as an indoor pet.

Cool Beds

Make sure little Fluffy has a cool spot to relax in, Hammock beds are a good option for this: the air moving below them helps them stay nice and cool. You can also point a fan at your furry pal’s bed or put a frozen towel in it for her to lay on.

Grooming

Extra fur and dander will make your kitten’s coat hot and itchy. Get little Fluffy used to being brushed now, while she’s young. Use treats and compliments to sweeten the deal.

Schedule

Bonding is crucial at this stage. Keep in mind that our feline friends always feel more comfortable when they’re kept on steady routines. Play with little Fluffy every day! Just do this in the mornings and evenings, when it’s cooler out.

Cold Snacks

Make sure your furry buddy always has cool water. On sweltering days, drop an ice cube into her bowl, or offer her some chilled sodium-free chicken broth. 

Do you have questions about your pet’s health or care? Please reach out to us, your Metairie, LA animal clinic, anytime. We’re here to help!