Development
Your kitten's rapid first-year changes, physically and mentally
Kitten development
In the first year of their life kittens go through a phase of rapid changes, both physical and mental. Proper teaching is a chance to strengthen the bond between you as well as an investment into an emotionally stable and well-behaved adult cat. From the very beginning teach your cat how to behave at home and around other animals and people.
Litter training
Using the litterbox is the first and basic skill your kitten has to master in their new home. Cats are very clean pets and their instinct to bury their faeces is very strong — wild cats do it, to mask their smell. Most cats from breeders or shelters shouldn't have too much trouble getting used to a new litter box, as most of the time kittens are already trained. At the beginning try to avoid strongly scented litter — cats have very sensitive noses and intense scents can discourage a kitten from using a litter box. Once you bring your kitten home, immediately show him where the litter box is, you can even gently place the kitten inside. If your kitten uses the litter box, praise him for doing so and offer a reward, preferably a tasty treat. Kittens usually have to use the litter box after a meal or a nap — at first, you can carry your kitten to the litter box when he finishes his food or wakes up. Always praise and reward a kitten for using the litter box.
