Kittens & KIDS

Kittens ought to get along with young children; after all, they’ve got quite a bit in common! However, it’s wise to remember that both kids and kittens are still in the process of learning and will need adult supervision — separately and together. Follow our top 10 tips to ensure a harmonious relationship.

1 Draw up house rules for behaviour around the kitten, teaching your little one about how to act around him before you bring him home.

2 Make sure your kitten has a designated space within the home and that your child understands that when he is eating, using his litter tray, and curled up in his bed that he is not to be touched.

3 Always supervise any games or handling, offering your child a clear demonstration on how to gently stroke your kitten — and not to overdo it. No matter how cute a kitten looks, he should never be woken for cuddles or playtime. If he seems receptive, play but don’t persevere if he seems disinterested or anxious.Wait until he’s fully awake and active.

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If you are expecting to have your children’s friends over, plan ahead and place your kitten in his safe area, behind a closed door, at least until they are calm and quiet. Don’t allow your child and others to crowd him.

5 For safety’s sake, encourage family members to always wear socks and/or slippers so toes are kept covered, out of sight, and away from kitten temptation.

6 Children can easily be frightened by a kitten who plays with his claws out. Use toys that allow some distance between themselves and the kitten — like soft toys or small feathers dangling from fishing rod-style toys — keeping little hands out of harm’s way.

7 Keep a kitten out of your child’s bedroom at night — at least until they are used to one another.

8 Although it can be a useful practice to feed your cat a treat from your fingers, for children it’s safer to place the treat on the floor in front of the kitten.This will avoid fingers from being inadvertently nipped.

9 Teach young children the signs of an unhappy cat — ears back, a swishing tail, ruffled fur, hissing, and growling.

10 Make sure your kitten has a high vantage point that he can use to retreat to and watch your youngster’s activity from a safe distance.