Puppies and kittens are so cute! It’s exciting to become the new owner of a furry companion that will make life seem less lonely. But wait! Pet ownership comes with the important responsibility of ensuring your puppy or kitten gets the care and attention they need to thrive.
Seeking help from seasoned pet owners around you is a great place to start learning about pet care. However, nothing beats a veterinarian's expert opinion at Cochrane Animal Hospital in Morgan Hill, CA. With our help, you’ll have all the information you need to love and care for your pet. Below are the puppy and kitten care basics we advise pet owners to start with.
Get Appropriate Gear
Pet gear helps keep your pet safe, comfortable, and healthy. As a new pet owner, below are some must-have gear and accessories.
For Puppies:
- A crate for toilet training
- Leash and collar
- Dog bed
- Food and water bowls
- Puppy toys
- Brush and comb
For Kittens:
- Cat brush
- Scratching pad
- Litter box
- Cat bed
- Food and treats
- Food and water bowls
- Kitten toys
- -Cat carrier for easy transportation
Matters Regarding Nutrition
Puppies and kittens may seem small, but their nutrition needs are enormous. At this stage in their life, consider buying special pet food formulated for kittens and puppies. Kittens should keep eating kitten food until they are nine to twelve months old before you can transition them to adult cat food.
Conversely, dogs can also consume puppy food until nine to twelve months. However, larger dog breeds should continue taking puppy food until two years. Remember to leave enough fresh water for your pet daily. The right nutrition helps your pet build its defenses while ensuring steady mental and physical growth.
Prioritize Healthcare
Your puppy or kitten is young and quite vulnerable to infections and diseases. Our veterinarian recommends proper vaccinations for pets during the first week you acquire them. Vets also help you create a routine care schedule that helps keep your pet safe and free from parasites like ticks and fleas.
We also give you a time frame to decide when to schedule spaying and neutering for your puppy or kitten. The vet visit is your chance to ask as many questions as possible and get clarity on things that may confuse you as a new pet owner.
Training
Training is categorized into two: bathroom training and physical exercises. The phrase "you can’t teach an old dog (or cat) new tricks" holds true here. Therefore, consider instilling social discipline and bathroom manners while your pet is still a puppy or kitten.
During bathroom training, you must be patient and expect your pet to make a few mistakes before getting it right. Alternatively, create a daily exercise routine that helps your pet release pent-up energy and build a stronger bond with its owner. While intensive exercises are excellent for active puppies, cats are great with toys and indoor activities. Physical training is imperative for your pet’s somatic and mental development.
Get More Puppy and Kitten Advice in Morgan Hill, CA
Standard veterinary advice insists on routine care for pets as the best foundation to guarantee your puppy or kitten a long, healthy, comfortable life. While you try to find your way around adjusting to living with a pet, the above are important basics to get you started. Contact Cochrane Animal Hospital today at (408) 778-7783 to schedule an appointment. We’ll point you in the right direction regarding puppy and kitten care.