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*Direct human involvement in feeding is phased out over this period, in favour of play.
*Direct human involvement in feeding is phased out over this period, in favour of play.
*If possible the kitten should be shifted towards activity or automatic feeding. Activity feeders can be made out of old plastic drinks bottles with holes cut in [so that dried food rolls out]. Electronic feeding bowls that automatically uncover a portion of food, or which dispense a small activity ball containing food every hour are another good way to reduce human involvement in feeding.
*If possible the kitten should be shifted towards activity or automatic feeding. Activity feeders can be made out of old plastic drinks bottles with holes cut in [so that dried food rolls out]. Electronic feeding bowls that automatically uncover a portion of food, or which dispense a small activity ball containing food every hour are another good way to reduce human involvement in feeding.
In cats the primary sensitive period of socialisation is very early, running from approximately 2 to 7 weeks of age. During this time the majority of cats, especially pedigree ones, are with the breeder on their premises and therefore the duty for ensuring that kittens come into society as acceptable companion animals rests largely on the breeder’s shoulders. The potential genetic influence on feline temperament through the boldness trait of the tomcat is a topic that has received a lot of attention in recent years and it is now generally accepted that the temperament of both the queen and the tom are important when deciding on breeding programmes. The fact that kittens can be reliably identified on the basis of the behavioural reactions of the father is evidence for a genetic factor and the boldness trait is believed to be important in enabling kittens to cope with interaction with their environment, both social and physical.
Puppy parties are now a relatively common feature of general practice, but rather less provision is offered to kittens. It is possible to organise kitten parties, although the risks of infectious disease are greater than for puppy parties and the kittens will almost certainly have finished their socialisation period at the time of the party. What may be easier, more practical, and equally worthwhile is to offer clients an educational evening on cat behaviour, to cover aspects of environmental enrichment, handling and social interaction so that kitten owners can properly understand and mould their cat’s behaviour.