An ordinary kitten will ask more questions than any five year old!!  - Carl Van Vechten

Kittens and other pets can make wonderful companions and teach children compassion, responsibility, & understanding of another living, breathing creature.

Before bringing a kitten home, sit down with your children and discuss with them the proper ways to interact with a kitten and talk about the care of the kitten and consequences of not giving the kitten proper care and of handling them improperly. 

Set up a spot in the home, usually were kitty eats, sleeps and has a litter box, that is the kitties sanctuary.  The spot that the children respect and kitty can go to eat in peace or take a nap.  Kittens especially need undisturbed nap time, and a quiet space that they can go to find that. 

Thank you Tony & Brooke  for these wonderful photos of Isabelle & Masimo!!

Children should not be expected to "be in charge" of the kitten.  Part of feeding a kitten is monitoring that she is eating properly and young children should not have that amount of responsibility.  They should however be able to help with everything, from feeding to taking the kitty to the vet.  This is a excellent way for them to learn more about the care of their new addition.

Set up ground rules:  Children must understand that they can not pull on tails or ears or bother her while she eats.  They must also understand how to pet the kitten properly and that treating the kitten roughly or cornering the kitten may cause the kitten to hiss, scratch or even bite in fear.  Explain how sharp the claws and teeth are.

Do not allow the kitten to be picked up unnecessarily.  Encourage the children to sit on the floor quietly, maybe with a feather toy to play with the kitten and let the kitten approach them.  The kitten will hold far less fear of a toddler or young child sitting quietly than a child running after her, grabbing at her.   (Excited children can scare or unintentionally injure a kitten.) You want them to start off on the right foot, and we have found the way to a bengals heart is through play!!  Teach them to never hit the kitty with the toy and to move it about softly, not banging the toy on the floor.  Interactive toys are wonderful for the kids, the kitty, and even the adults!!

Monitor small children & kittens until you are sure that they will play appropriately!

Show the children how to pick kitty up properly.  With one hand supporting the chest and the other the back legs.  If they are to young, have them sit on a chair and put the kitten in their lap (supervised).

Teaching your children the basics of looking after their pet will reward them for years to come.  The family pet will be a best friend that provides unconditional love and teaches friendship, responsibility and loyalty!

Thank you to the Hatchers for these fantastic photos!!