When you get your Cat/Kitten home

Initially, you should keep your cat or kitten confined to the house for at least 3 weeks, so it can get used to its new surroundings. Chimneys, open widows, and carelessness with doors are particularly hazardous at this time.

Do not be tempted to take your kitten to the vet immediately for vaccinations, until you are satisfied it is lively, eating well and its motions are reasonably firm.

It should be explained to young children that cats and kittens need a lot of sleep and should be treated with care. They are not toys: they have claws and teeth and occasionally use them in play.

Kittens eat little and often, and have usually been weaned at the sanctuary on tinned and dry kitten food. We usually only give cats and kittens water to drink.

The litter tray should be placed in an easily accessible, quiet place away from the

cat/kitten feeding area. Encourage kittens to use the litter tray immediately after a meal. We use the wood based litter in the sanctuary.

If there are other pets in the house, particularly dogs, introduce them slowly and make sure someone is present at all times.