How to be a good owner to a new kitten or puppy

I recently got a new kitten, her name is Velvet. She is so cute with her giant eyes! 

Before I got Velvet, I had to plan what all she needs and how much it will cost so that I could be prepared.  I also thought about medical expenses like vaccines, dewormer, and spaying.  Puppies and kittens should be dewormed each month when they get their first round of vaccines and at least twice annually after that.  Deworm your pets more often if they are outside, mousing, or have not been dewormed in a while.  It is not uncommon for kittens and puppies to have worms passed from their mom.  

​Velvet is a long haired cat so I knew I needed to get some brushes to discourage matting and I will probably want to give her some preventative hairball treats.  I made sure to get her a large litter box that will be one and a half to two times the size she will be full grown. Right now she eats Purina Essential Care Kitten food which is a food and company I trust, and that is really important to me as a pet owner.  Velvet will be fully vaccinated and dewormed because it is my obligation to ensure she stays safe and the necessary preventatives be taken. 

Velvet is a crazy little kitten. She has learnt that she can climb up the back of the couch.  This is something I do not want to encourage.  It is important that I keep her nails trimmed and also know how to trim nails.  If you don’t know how to trim your pet’s nails let me know, I will help you. 

It is important to provide enrichment for Velvet so she doesn’t get destructive when I am at work so I got her a cat tree and plenty of toys. I also want to get her a window seat so then she has her own spot in the house. Did you know that animals feel anxiety when they don’t have a designated spot just for them?

When Velvet is about 6 months old, she will be spayed and will also be switched to the Purina Dental Health food to help reduce plaque and tartar on her teeth. Let’s be honest this is better than trying to brush your cat’s teeth!  

There is a lot to think about when getting a new puppy or kitten. It is easy to get wrapped up in the cuteness of a new baby but it is important to remember the great responsibility that you are taking on being a pet parent. A good way to save on some costs is to look on Buy and Sell sites for gently used or free items. It is always good to potentially reuse items that other people don't need anymore but you cannot rely on others to give you everything you will need and there are other expenses like vaccines, deworming, and neutering/spaying to be planned for as well.  A kitten or puppy won't cost you as much as a baby but they are still pretty expensive cuties. 

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