Introducing a Cat to Your Children

Are cats and children a good mix?

So, you had a cat in the family when you were a kid. And you are thinking that the addition of a cat into your home would make a terrific family pet, and would give your children the pleasure of loving and caring for an animal.

Most likely you'd be right.

But, just because you have nothing but pleasant memories of growing up with a much loved feline pet doesn't mean that things always go faultlessly well.

There are things to remember and steps to take before introducing a cat to your children.

First thing make sure that your children would want a cat as a family pet. Most probably they will enthusiastically welcome the idea, but make sure that they understand that caring for a living breathing creature has responsibility attached to it as well as pleasure.

Be prepared to assume all the responsibilities of taking care of the family cat yourself. Children can, and should, be taught to take care of some of the chores if they are old enough, but if they lose interest it will be up to you.

No matter how laid back or tolerant your cat is you should never leave a toddler unattended with a cat. Even older children should be under your supervision until you are quite sure that the cat and your kids respect each other.

Try to have a place that your cat can retreat to when he or she does not want the attention of kids (or adults for that matter.) Sometimes children do not understand when a cat does not want to play or be petted and a room, or someplace that your cat can be alone when it feels the need to can save disharmony.

Children need to be told just how sharp the claws and teeth of a cat are, don't let them find out by painful experience! Explain that cats can bite and scratch if teased, stressed or over excited. Show you children how to play gently with their pet and preferably with the sort of cat toy that keeps the cat at a little distance, such as a catnip mouse on a string.

Kittens may not be the best choice for very young children. A toddler may not be able to understand just how fragile a kitten is and that an over enthusiastic hug could harm their pet. A kitten is also less able to tolerate the rapid movement and gleeful shouting of a very young child than is an adult cat. An older cat, two years and up, would be more likely to be laid back about the attention of a toddler and certainly more robust than a kitten.

Demonstrate to your children the proper way to hold a cat. Show them how to gently pick kitty up with one hand supporting the chest and the other the back legs. If your kids are to young to learn how to do this they should be dissuaded from trying to pick up your cat. Tell your children to beware of a cat's sensitive areas such as stomach, tail, ear and paws.

A strong bond can develop between kids and cats and this can teach them love and respect for animals that can last for the rest of their lives. Teaching your children the basics of looking after their pet will reward them for years to come.

About The Author

If you have a pet related web site and you wish to reproduce the above article you are welcome to do so, provided the article is reproduced in its entirety, including this resource box and live link to http://www.best-cat-art.com/cat-breeds.html Information about your favorite cat breed.

---

Are Your Fish Sick?

Keeping a fish tank is a wonderful and relaxing hobby,... Read More

Dont Let Ticks Ruin Your Dogs Good Time!

Nobody likes ticks.In fact, when it comes to ticks I... Read More

Seeing Past Cuteness When Selecting the Best Dog Breed For You: Part 3 of 3

Are there so many great dog breeds out there that... Read More

How To Find a Lost Cat

Losing your cat is a worrying experience, use these 'How... Read More

Questions to Ask When Choosing a Dog for Family Life

Dog's come in all shapes and sizes ? out of... Read More

Dog Training Collars: Teaching Your Dog Basic Obedience and Breaking Bad Habits

Dog Training CollarsHaving a pet means having to provide for... Read More

Life with the Rat Terriers

I am a happy owner of two rat terriers. They... Read More

Can Cats And Dogs Live Together As Friends?

Can cats and dogs live together without constantly being at... Read More

Pet Doors: Giving Your Pet Freedom to Come and Go as They Please Helps Solve Behavior Problems

Pet DoorsAre you considering installing a pet door for your... Read More

Petting a Dog is Good For Both of You

Studies have shown that regularly petting a dog brings a... Read More

How To Adopt A Shelter Cat - Your New Cat Will Thank You For Reading This Article

If you are thinking of adding a feline to your... Read More

Ear Mites in Dogs: Quite Earritating

Does your dog have that sheepish look? It could be... Read More

Housetraining Tips for Your Dog or Puppy

Puppies need to go to the bathroom after they play,... Read More

Dog Boutiques ? Perfect Pampering for Your Pooch!

Believe it or not boutiques for dogs are everywhere. Nowadays,... Read More

Three Important Litter Box Considerations

There are three important litter box considerations to account for... Read More

Are You Ready for a Boxer?

Are you ready for a Boxer?The answer is "no" if... Read More

Crate Training Your Puppy

Teaching your puppy crate training is the first and best... Read More

The Top Ten Reasons You Can - And Should - Hold an Equine Educational Event

Boarding, Breeding, Training & Showing Stables:1. You need to fill... Read More

Whats the Best Diet for a Pregnant Cat?

Pregnant cats have to eat for two, three, four, five,... Read More

Cute Cat Names ... And How To Find Them

Cute cat names? Max is popular, Lady a favorite for... Read More

Using Dog Leash Training to Control Your Pooch

Many pet owners don't like using a leash, for a... Read More

How to Buy a Purebred Dog

If you decide you want a purebred, make sure it's... Read More

All Natural Dog Cookies ? Because Your Dog?s Health and Happiness is So Important

Traditionally, a doggie treat was just that, a treat that... Read More

My Fathers Daughter

My dad was an avid animal lover. We grew up... Read More

Loyal Companions Promote Longevity

Have you ever wondered what a dog thinks, or if... Read More

The Geriatric (Older) Dog

Dogs mature and age at much different rates, usually according... Read More

Tips to Help Solve the Three Most Common Dog Barking Complaints

Many dog owners find themselves frustrated, deeply concerned and even... Read More

Crate Training Dogs: The Right Way and the Wrong Way - Part Two

Part2: Does your puppy want to be crate trained?Yes! in... Read More

Puppies, Kittens, Rabbits, Hamsters, Fish Tanks, Exotic Pets and Bird Houses!

Pet's, any kind of pet can be a welcome addition... Read More

Westies Puppies - How to Prepare for Your Westie Puppy

Just like when you bring home a new baby, you... Read More

What Type of Cat Food is Really Best For Your Cat?

Which cat food should you feed your cat to be... Read More

How To Protect Your Pets From Fleas And Ticks

Fleas are wingless, blood-sucking insects that feed on dog, cats,... Read More

How To Install An Emergency Brake On Your Horse

Imagine being on a horse and he bolts. You pull... Read More