Читать книгу 77 Things to Know Before Getting a Cat - Susan Ewing M. - Страница 41

There’s nothing cuter than a kid and a kitten, but children—especially young ones—need to be supervised when they are with the new kitten or cat. A child doesn’t always understand that he or she may be hurting a kitten, so it’s up to you to keep all parties safe. Don’t let your children sit on the cat, pull his ears or tail, or poke his eyes.

Pay attention to your cat. If his ears are back, his tail is thrashing, or he’s hissing or growling, he’s had enough. Remove him from the situation. Don’t let children interfere with your cat when he is eating or sleeping. Crating your cat or putting him in a room by himself will give everyone a chance to calm down.

Encourage your children to sit on the floor to play with the cat or kitten and teach them the proper way to pick up the kitten: with one hand under the chest and the other supporting the hindquarters. Also, remember that, while an adult cat may have learned to play nicely, with claws sheathed, a kitten is more likely to scratch. Supervise playtime. Encourage using toys on poles so that the kitten’s claws connect with feathers or fur, not skin. You don’t want your child to get hurt.

Another good way to help strengthen the bond between your children and the kitten is to let them help take care of him. Even a small child can fill a water dish or scoop food from a can. Remember, though, that even though your children may enjoy caring for the kitten, it’s up to you to make sure that the kitten isn’t neglected because the children forgot or were too busy.

If you don’t have children at home, but children visit from time to time, it’s a good idea to introduce your kitten to some children. You want him to grow up to be a cat who is comfortable around both adults and children. Maybe there are some neighborhood children who’d like to meet your kitten. Just remember to supervise all interaction. You want this to be a positive experience for both the kitten and the children.

If you’re adopting an older cat from a shelter or rescue, the volunteers may be able to tell you whether he is good with children, but maybe not. Always err on the side of caution. Make introductions slowly. Make sure the child understands to move slowly and quietly. The best way to make the introduction is for the child to sit quietly and let the cat come to him or her.

Make introductions with the child sitting on the floor.

No matter if you bring home a kitten or an adult cat, you must teach your children to handle the new pet gently.