Kittens are adorable, soft, and sweet or so they seem.
Most children will wish for one of their own pretty kitties but many kids also have the false assumption that kittens and cats will lay quiet when pulled, pushed, and dressed up for tea like the good picture books portray.
Is a cat or kitten the right pet for your child? Let's take a look at what makes cats so special.
Kittens and cats can be frisky and unpredictable.
That doesn't make them a poor choice for a child's pet but it is a characteristic that may be overlooked when choosing a pet.
Kittens and cats also have sharp teeth and nails that can slice like a razor if not trimmed or removed.
That adorable, soft, and sweet kitten or cat can get easily spooked while on your lap and take a flying leap using your thighs as a spring-board.
The result can be scratches right through your clothing.
Kittens also think everything is a play thing.
So when a child makes quick movements to pet the kitten or cat, they may be in for a surprise attack from soft paws hiding those sharp claws.
Kittens and cats are also instinctively hunters.
Animals that hunt have sharp teeth to help catch prey...
alias mice.
If you don't believe this, watch a kitten or cat with catnip filled felt shaped mouse toys and watch the antics of hunt and kill.
This also doesn't make a kitten or cat a bad choice but knowing the characteristics of these animals help you to make an educated choice for your child.
Kittens and cats are some of the least expensive animals to have as pets.
Their food comes in dry form or canned, they need fresh water, and they need a clean kitty pan with cat litter.
They are independent and require little maintenance.
If they have the above items, you can leave them overnight or a day or two and they will survive fine.
Most cats don't have anxiety when the owners leave like dogs or puppies.
This a great point in their favor.
Think about the age of your child and how well he or she understands instructions about being gentle with the cat or kitten and being safe.
Consider how much the vet bills might be for neutering or spaying, shots, and worming.
Cats can live indoors without the need for a yard and they survive nicely in small living quarters.
Keeping in mind that cats and kittens can be sneaky, frisky, timid, bold, and very independent they can make a wonderful pet for your child.
Along with those other characteristics kittens and cats can also be sweet, loving, cuddly, and devoted.
Just watch out for those unpredictable hair balls, (or did I forget to mention that.
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