Pets & Vets
Animal behaviourist Sarah-jane White on introducing a kitten to the outside world.
ONE of the most exciting things about getting a new kitten is taking them outside for the first time and seeing their reaction to the great outdoors.
Here are a few tips on how to introduce your kitten to the outside world in a way that is safe, gradual and stress-free.
Kittens should be vaccinated and microchipped before you venture out.
It’s a good idea to put them in a harness and keep them on a leash initially.
This will help you keep track of them and prevent them from running off or getting into trouble.
The first time you take your kitten outside, keep the session short.
Take them out for no more than 10 minutes and choose a quiet spot without too much stimulation.
You don’t want their first experience of the outdoors to be overwhelming, so a busy park or street corner is not ideal.
A quiet back yard or even just your front porch should suffice.
Before going out into your garden, make sure to cover up ponds, close up any gaps and put away any tools or fertilisers as these all pose hazards to your exploring kitty.
Once you’re in your chosen spot, let your kitten explore at their own pace.
If they seem scared or skittish, offer reassurance but don’t try to force them to do anything they’re not comfortable with.
Let them sniff and get used to their surroundings in their own time.
Gradually increase the duration of each session over time.
When you’re confident, let them off the leash, but keep an eye on them.
It’s a good idea to teach your kitten to come when you call them.
You can do this by tapping their bowl and calling their name when you feed them.
Be patient. It takes time for a kitten to get used to all the new sights and smells of the world.
Neuter your kitten if you are going to let them roam the neighbourhood. You don’t want any fluffy surprises. ■