KITTEN CARE GUIDE

The essentials for a good start in life Asw a ne kitten owner there are many things to consider, and some very important choices to help keep your kitten healthy. To help you navigate the joys of raising a kitten, we are delighted to CONTENTS offer you this guide, packed with valuable information to help get you and your new kitten off to a great start together. CARE Bringing Your Kitten Home 6 For 45 years, breeders, owners and veterinarians throughout At Home Together 12 the world have relied on Royal Canin for nutritional expertise. Kitten Grooming 14 Created by a veterinarian, Royal Canin is renowned for knowledge Kitten Hygiene 16 and respect for cats. Hundreds of scientists and professionals Caring for Claws and Teeth 17 from diverse fields are involved in our research and development NUTRITION programs, resulting in innovative nutritional answers aimed at The Science of Nutrition 20 enhancing the health and longevity of your cat Why Cats Are Different 22 Congratulations on the addition of Digestion and Taste 24 a o kitten t your home. Rest assured Feeding Guidelines for Cats 26 Understanding a Kitten’s Growth 28 that you can trust Royal Canin to Nutrition 30 provide the best health nutrition availableo t get your new kitten off TRAINING to a great start toward a long and Behavior and Training 44 healthy life. Your Kitten’s Home 46 Your Kitten’s Activities 48 Enjoy the wonderful pleasures Your Kitten’s Personality 50 your new kitten will bring. Your Kitten’s Communication 51 Body Language 52 HEALTHCARE Caring for your Kitten 56 Preventive Measures 57 Vaccinations 58 Internal Parasite Prevention 59 External Parasite Prevention 60 FIRST AID First Aid for Cats 64 Emergency Action Steps 66 Poisonous Substances 68 Toxic Plants 69 My Pet’s Information 70 CARE

Bringing Your Kitten Home 6 At Home Together 12 Kitten Grooming 14 Kitten Hygiene 16 Caring for Claws and Teeth 17

Kittenguide Preference Meet the veterinarian and see the facilities. The BRINGING veterinary staff should be friendly and helpful. The veterinarian must be trustworthy and have your kitten home expertise in dealing with cats. Proximity While this is an exciting time for you, it can Choose a veterinarian’s office that is close to be a rather frightening time of adjustment your home. This is not only an issue of your for your new kitten. The kitten will be leaving convenience, but will allow you to get there the security of their mother and littermates quickly in case of an emergency. and experiencing a multitude of new sights, Hours sounds and smells. In the first few months, you will be visiting the veterinarian often, so it is important to make To help you with this exciting transition, the team sure your vet’s hours of operation coincide with at Royal Canin has gathered helpful information your schedule. Many veterinarians have extended to assist in introducing your new kitten to evening or weekend hours to accommodate their new home. Schedule a work schedules. veterinary visit Emergencies Choosing a veterinarian soon after getting Many veterinarians refer to after-hours emergency your kitten It is important to have an initial Keep emergency clinics. Ask if the veterinarian answers after-hours veterinary emergency calls, or refers emergencies to a local checkup after obtaining your kitten and for follow-up care, so choosing hospital numbers clinic. If the vet refers to a clinic for after-hours Trust a veterinarian before your new handy emergencies, be sure to ask where the emergency Royal Canin clinic is located. kitten comes home can save time. If to provide you don’t have a veterinarian, friends nutrition for your or family members with pets can make pet’s needs recommendations. Here are a few tips to help you choose a veterinarian, if you are unable to keep the kitten’s original veterinarian.

Kittenguide 6 • 7 • Remove all indoor plants that are in reach of your new kitten as many household plants are toxic to cats. • Check under the First Aid tab of this booklet and ask your veterinarian for a list of poisonous substances. Making your home safe Kittens have a tendency to lurk in cupboards, Without realizing it, there are many dangers drawers and laundry baskets, and very often that exist inside your home, and oversights can get inside washing machines and dryers. Look jeopardize your kitten’s safety. New habits and for possible hiding places to minimize the risk certain arrangements will help you to protect of accidents. your kitten from possible household accidents. By kitten-proofing now, you can avoid a lot of heartache later. Just as you would with a baby, you need to make sure the whole house is safe from anything dangerous to Hide electrical the kitten. By getting wires and block down at the kitten’s unused outlets level you can assess potential hazards. Limit access to balconies and • Hide any exposed decks electrical wires and Put away block unused electrical pesticides and outlets. medications • Put all pesticides, weed and rat killers and all medications out of the kitten’s reach. • Put away small items such as rubber bands, string, pens, pencils, needles, etc. • Don’t leave plastic bags or things made out of foam lying around. • Close the trash can lid and the toilet seat cover. • Be careful with hot irons.

Kittenguide 8 • 9 Scratching Post Providing appropriate places to scratch will help to avoid damage inside your home. Cat Tree Your kitten’s first things Kittens love to climb up high and twist around between two branches. A cat tree helps to It’s a good idea to have all the necessary items limit excessive rushing about and jumping on before the kitten is brought home. Your list furniture while still allowing the kitten to satisfy should include food, feeding bowls, a litter box, the need for exercise. a bed and toys. All of these accessories are available in pet supply stores: Toys Toys can be either bought, hand made or even Food and Water Bowls just items found around the house. Toys will Choose a small bowl for kitten food (an adult encourage the kitten to interact and play. And cat only eats four to six ounces of food per day) play will keep her entertained so she is less likely and a bigger one for fresh water, which must to cause problems stemming from boredom. always be available. Glass, crystal or ceramic bowls are recommended. Litter Box Select a container that is deep enough and a scoop to remove droppings. There are several different kinds of litter Be prepared boxes, including a covered with necessary litter box that can help items before you to avoid accidental spills bring the kitten home and limit odors. You Use glass, crystal or ceramic will need to find the bowls for food right type of litter box and water for your kitten. Avoid handling Bedding the kitten excessively The kitten will choose their own place to sleep, but it is important to provide a warm comfortable place where the kitten will feel safe (you may want to use the carrying crate you used to bring the kitten home).

Kittenguide 10 • 11 furniture. Maintain your existing pet’s (dog and/or cat) privileges, but make introductions soon after your kitten arrives home so that they can AT HOME be properly integrated into the household. together Your kitten’s first nights The first night is often very disturbing for your kitten. It is normal for the kitten to cry the first You are now responsible for your kitten’s health three to four nights. and safety. You have taken the place of the mother and now the kitten will rely on you Children for confidence and protection. Remember that Children often tend to almost smother the your kitten has just been brought into totally new arrival with attention. An adult cat is unknown surroundings. Curb your enthusiasm, perfectly capable of avoiding children when move gently and don’t shout. Avoid handling they don’t want to be bothered, but a kitten is the kitten excessively. A noisy or agitated not. You should explain to your children that atmosphere could cause your kitten to be a the kitten is not a toy, that they need lots nervous and fearful adult. of sleep and that they should not wake the kitten just to cuddle or play. It is best not to allow young children to play with the kitten Handling your kitten when you are not present. Your supervision will ensure the child is gentle with the kitten and aid Remember to handle your kitten carefully. Rough in avoiding scratches. or sudden movement can terrify your pet. Other Cats If you want to carry your kitten, the best way is An adult cat does not always appreciate • You are responsible for to slide one hand, open wide, under the stomach invasion of their territory. Some may show your kitten’s safety with the other under the rear end for bigger displeasure with threatening behavior. breeds. Do not slide both hands under the • Supervise the kitten’s Total acceptance may take several months. front feet. introduction to other pets in the household During the introduction, try introducing Introductions the cats on neutral territory during play • Total acceptance by the or meal times. Separate the cats if any Introducing the new environment, new other animals in the aggression begins to appear. Repeat family members and possible fellow pets house may take several the process until the cats no longer (dogs and/or cats already living in your months mind each other’s presence and begin household) is a very important stage in • An adult should always to share. A hierarchical relationship will successfully integrating your kitten into be present when children then be established between the cats, a their new home. A poor introduction play with the kitten relationship that you must respect. could cause a feeling of frustration and/or • Take care to keep your new Dogs jealousy for your existing pet(s). This must take kitten from becoming A well-socialized dog will easily accept place gradually and gently. You can take certain scared or injured the young kitten. Older dogs may be precautions and make subtle changes to protect less tolerant, but a slow introduction your new kitten from “accidents waiting to happen” • Never pull the kitten’s tail will prove to be worth the effort as you inside your home. or head allow the pets to get acclimated and Isolate the kitten so that they gradually learn accept each other. the way around the house and won’t hide under Kittenguide 12 • 13 Kitten Short-haired breeds With short-haired cats, a weekly brushing is GROOMING sufficient. Before brushing, you can massage against the hair direction with a glove brush, which will eliminate dead hair and stimulate Along with sleep, grooming is one of the kitten’s top the skin. Brushing is done with a soft brush, priorities. Kittens will start to groom themselves preferably one with natural bristles so as not to from the fifteenth day of life, mainly with their damage the coat. particularly rough tongue, but also with the help of their paws. The front paws are moistened with the Mid- to long-haired breeds tongue and serve as a washcloth going as far as the ears. The back paws are very flexible, allowing the Mid to long-haired breeds need daily brushing. kitten to groom all of their back and also the ears. A few minutes a day helps to avoid the formation Short-haired breeds include: of knots and tangles and to eliminate dirt and Abyssinian, American Shorthair, parasites. A large toothed metal comb is the Brushing and combing your kitten Burmese, Chartreaux, Cornish Rex, most suitable tool for grooming these breeds. Japanese Bobtail, Manx Be careful with the comb. A comb penetrates Grooming your kitten will soon become a treasured Long-haired breeds include: the coat better than a brush but there is a time of exchange and sharing between you and Balinese, Maine Coon, Persian, greater risk of irritating the surface of the skin. your kitten. In addition, a beautiful coat reflects Ragdoll, Turkish Angora Choose your comb carefully. not only their good health but also the care and attention you give to them. Comb your kitten in the direction of their hair and then against their hair so as to gently remove You should get your kitten used to being brushed dead hair and eliminate small knots. When a as soon as possible. This ritual will quickly become knot is difficult, act gently and patiently a time of shared pleasure and companionship. It rather than pulling hard and tearing is a good idea to end the brushing session with a Areas behind the out a tuft. cuddle or a game. ears and neck are the most prone to Areas behind the ears and neck Brushing is not just a luxury; it’s a necessity. knots and tangles are prone to forming knots Removing the dead hair that accumulates in the Weekly or daily brushing is needed and require special attention fur prevents your kitten from swallowing it. Too depending on your because the kitten isn’t able to much licking can cause hair to build up in the cat’s hair length reach those areas themselves. stomach resulting in problematic hairballs. Start grooming You should finish the grooming Hairballs can cause digestive problems like early to get your with the tail, brushing along its vomiting and diarrhea. kitten used to being brushed length (with the hair and against the hair) for maximum volume.

Kittenguide 14 • 15 KITTEN CARING FOR hygiene claws and teeth

Not all cat breeds have the same tolerance for water. Clipping your kitten’s claws Because bathing is recommended for medium and long-haired coats, you must get your kitten used to Kittens use their claws to mark their territory. water at an early age. To avoid the damage that this can cause, without prohibiting their natural instincts, it is recommended that you cut or have your Giving the first bath veterinarian cut the tips of the claws. The first bath should be a pleasant experience. Before doing this yourself, ask your veterinarian Take extreme caution not to frighten your kitten. to explain which part of the nail you can cut Begin by moistening the kitten with a warm, wet without risk. washcloth or sponge. If they react with hostility, reassure the kitten and repeat this action until Clipping the claws is not painful for the kitten, the kitten accepts it. Rinse them thoroughly. but it is very important that you begin this practice at an early age, so the kitten will trust and allow After filling the bottom of the bathtub or Get your kitten you to do so. sink with water at 96-98° F, place your used to kitten in it while reassuring them by taking baths Your veterinarian can show you the best way to stroking and talking to them. Then wet Do not use trim your kitten’s claws. hair dyes to the back, making sure that you don’t color your pour water into the eyes or ears. Avoid kitten’s coat Caring for your kitten’s teeth wetting the head. It is important to use Avoid a special cat shampoo formulated for your wetting the head. Milk teeth appear from the third to sixth week, Use only shampoo kitten’s skin and hair (available in pet supply second teeth from four months. Tartar tends made for cats stores). Never use hair dye on your kitten’s fur. to build up on the teeth over time causing inflammation of the gums and bad breath, Wash their coat, concentrating on the dirty parts which in extreme cases can lead to the teeth and rinse thoroughly with clean water. It is imperative falling out. A Dental Exam is part of routine vet that all shampoo be rinsed from the coat. Towel care and it is important for your veterinarian to dry with a warm, clean cloth and, depending on evaluate your cat’s dental health at least yearly. your kitten’s hair length, you might want to use a hair dryer to finish drying. Early dental care is key to maintaining good oral health. Getting the kitten used to regular tooth brushing and oral care at an early age ensures acceptance.

Kittenguide 16 • 17 NUTRITION

The Science of Nutrition 20 Why Cats Are Different 22 Digestion and Taste 24 Feeding Guidelines for Cats 26 Understanding a Kitten’s Growth 28 Nutrition 30

Kittenguide Health nutrition

Our research and knowledge has enabled us to provide the most precise nutritional answer for cats through: THE SCIENCE • Formulas that take into account the cat’s lifestyle of nutrition and their energetic needs with precision • The most palatable formulas available • High-quality ingredients selected with Your kitten’s health matters. At Royal Canin, we utmost care believe that it is our deep understanding of the cat that allows us to bring them a superior food. Each • Highly digestible formulas cat has individual needs — because of their age, lifestyle, specific sensitivities and breed — and We are specialists in the field of health nutrition therefore requires special nutrition in order to stay and take into consideration the characteristics of at peak health. cats requiring a tailored nutritional approach. Our passion for increased nutritional precision has led to collaborations with breeders, veterinarians Advances in our understanding and nutritionists. Our approach is supported by of nutritional health the knowledge and expertise of scientists around Good nutrition the world. From mere survival, which is can increase a cat’s Our Nutritional Approach giving the minimum required life expectancy Choosing a nutritional approach means combining for the cat to stay alive, the Royal Canin foods in a single food a complex jigsaw of just the concept of the complete diet meet the specific needs of age, breed, right amount of about fifty nutrients to supply was developed to provide the lifestyle and the most effective nutrition for cats of different maintenance of a healthy, active A veterinarian sensitivities ages, breeds, lifestyles and specific needs. lifestyle. Thanks to our increasing can advise you on the appropriate diet knowledge of how the body functions for your kitten if The Ingredients Approach and to the study of the health they have special The ingredients approach consists of mixing benefits of individual nutrients (plant needs together raw dietary materials to make a food extracts, minerals, unique proteins, etc.), with no consideration for a balanced nutritional we have now moved on to the concept of content. This approach is less accurate and nutrition, which is providing an optimal balance therefore less respectful of the cats’ needs. of nutrients to maximize the cat’s ability to utilize food for energy, cell growth, maintenance and defense against disease.

This Kitten Care Guide contains excerpts from Everything you need to know about the role played by Nutrients in the health of Cats and Dogs, D. Grandjean, a comprehensive nutritional information book reviewing the necessary food elements required for the health nutrition of dogs and cats. The author, Professor Dominque Grandjean, is the director of the Sports and Breeding Medicine Unit at the National School of Veterinary Science in Alfort, France. Kittenguide 20 • 21 organs are very different from our own. A cat’s Why Cats are characteristics include: DIFFERENT • Jaws made for cutting and not chewing • No pre-digestion with saliva • Strong stomach acid to help digest prey People haven’t always known how to feed swallowed whole their cats correctly. We’ve come a long way since cats were given milk to drink, which It is impossible to feed our cats adequately with was never appropriate for these lactose the same food we eat. It won’t be cooked enough, intolerant animals. But our cats face it will be too rich in carbohydrates, and will be another threat: the anthropormorphist ill-suited to their lifestyle and morphology. tendency. Anthropormorphism means Our love for our cats must not involve forcing projecting human characteristics unnatural dietary behavior upon them. (including our own eating preferences) onto our pets, but the food with enjoy just isn’t appropriate to feed to Cats have a weak our cats. sense of taste Cats eat Our fondness for our cats their food in can sometimes lead us small portions to make poor nutritional throughout choices on their behalf. Your cat’s the day Those foods that we consider dietary needs are treats may actually harm our different from your own feline companions. Human beings are omnivorous, have a sense of taste, enjoy variety and attach a lot of attention to their food. It seems quite natural to think we are doing the right thing by giving our cat a diet close to ours. Cats are carnivorous, have a weak sense of taste and don’t require much variety in their diet. Nearly 10,000 years of domestication hasn’t changed them into omnivores. A carnivore’s

Kittenguide 22 • 23 Digestion and TASTE

While a newborn kitten has a digestive tract suited Weight Ratio of to the digestion of milk, their digestive capacities Taste Buds Olfactory Cells Digestive System will evolve until they can no longer digest lactose (milk sugar). For proper growth, they must receive Cat 500 60-65 million 2.8% - 3.5% balanced quantities of proteins, fat, carbohydrates, Dog 1,700 70-200 million 2.7% - 7% vitamins, minerals and trace elements in the form Man 9,000 5-20 million 10% of a type of food that suits the physiological and digestive characteristics of felines. What this means They are fairly insensitive They are very They have a low for your kitten to different tastes sensitive to odors digestive capacity With 60 to 65 million olfactory cells, a cat’s sense of smell is acute, and they are very sensitive to odors, but their Kittens can sense of taste is not so well-developed. digest milk, Fewer taste buds mean that a cat but adult cats are Optimal palatability is less receptive to taste than to lactose intolerant To feed your cat correctly you must first stimulate smell and texture. Due to the low Cats have their appetite. It is the smell and texture of the awareness of different flavors, a fewer taste buds than cat does not require much variety in dogs and people food, rather than its taste, that makes them decide whether to eat. their food. Cats do not require We have paid special attention to the palatability much variety in of our foods by exercising complete control over their food a range of factors, including: • A formulation using rigorously selected ingredients • Precisely designed kibble textures, shapes and sizes • Thoroughly developed flavors • Perfect preservation Because of our recognized expertise in palatability, the foods in the Feline Health Nutrition range make the difference with even the fussiest of cats.

Kittenguide 24 • 25 Food transition period (1 week) FEEDING GUIDELINES for cats 75% usual food 50% usual food 25% usual food 100% + 25% new food + 50% new food + 75% new food new food Feeding guidelines

Growth is a delicate period affecting the well being and good health of the adult cat. Many Transition Foods Slowly factors influence growth, and good nutrition Ask the person you obtained the kitten from plays a major role. about their feeding methods (number of Feeding your meals per day, rationed or ad lib) and Food for the kitten and for the adult cat kitten table scraps types of meals. Any sudden change in must take into account specific digestive can result in the type of food may provoke digestive characteristics unique to their different life obesity upset which may include (soft stools stages. Only specially balanced foods are able or diarrhea). A transitional period for Transition slowly to guarantee all the nutrients necessary for changing from one food to another to new foods your cat’s well being, whatever their age, breed must be observed over one week by Make sure or level of activity. your kitten has gradually mixing the new food with the old food until you are feeding the Don’t Overfeed access to fresh new food exclusively. Follow the guidelines recommended on the bag, clean water as this will help prevent excess weight gain, Make Sure Fresh Water Is Always Available which could affect the kitten later in life. If you Whatever type of food you give your kitten, make think your kitten is over or underweight, sure they always have a bowl of fresh clean water. consult your veterinarian for specific feeding recommendations. Most importantly, allow your kitten to eat in peace. Avoid Table Scraps Feeding table scraps must be avoided if you want to maintain a balanced diet. Your cat will identify your meals with their own food and will continually beg at the table during your meals or while you are preparing them. An unbalanced diet can also lead to obesity.

Kittenguide 26 • 27 kitten’s life. These simple operations have been linked to several life-changing benefits, including: • Longer life expectancy • Preventing unwanted litters Understanding a • Friendlier demeanor toward humans and other animals • Less fighting and marking among male cats KITTEN’S The same hormonal changes that lead to all of these benefits for spayed and neutered cats GROWTH can also cause energy requirements to drop by 30%1 and appetite to increase by 20%2 within The growth period is the most important stage the first 48 hours after surgery3. in a cat’s life. Not only do they learn their future behaviors, but their body is molded into their This combination has a tendency to lead to eventual shape and size. Many factors influence weight gain. In fact, spayed and neutered cats growth and good nutrition plays a major role. are 3.4 times more likely than other cats to be overweight4. Growth in the cat takes 8-15 months, depending on sex and size of the breed. The larger the cat, A kitten You should consult your veterinarian the longer it will take to reach their adult weight. increases their regarding ideal body weight and condition birthweight for your kitten. Since males are usually larger, he will take 5 to 7 times longer to reach his adult weight. By the time a during the first eight Nutrition kitten reaches their adult weight, they will have weeks of life Males have a higher Between the fourth and twelfth week multiplied their birth weight by 40-50 times. growth potential of life, the immunity transferred to Between the than females the kitten in their mother’s first milk Factors specific to the kitten 4th and 12th weeks, (colostrum) gradually wanes. At the the kitten begins to same time, their own immune defenses Breed lose the immunity they received in their are not yet fully functional. Specific nutrients Like the majority of living species, the bigger mother’s milk during this period can help protect your kitten the breed, the longer the growth period. against infectious diseases. In addition, as their Sex muscular and skeletal systems continue to The male has a higher growth potential than the develop, they have very high energy requirements. female and their growth takes several weeks longer. They will therefore be heavier than females. Factors specific to the environment

Genes Hygiene The sire and dam contribute equally to the Poor hygiene at birth will affect the mother’s kitten’s genetic code. Size, corpulence and any health and the litter will suffer on account of it. morphological feature can influence growth. Sleep Spaying & Neutering Growth takes place, as in all young animals, Certain hormones synthesized by the kitten during sleep. Although, after two months, the direct their growth. Early neutering or spaying kitten needs less time for sleeping, so the quality does not affect the ultimate size (height, bone of their sleep plays a very important role. structure, musculature) of the adult cat; this

is determined by genetics. However, spaying 1 Source: Belisto, 2009 2 Source: Fettman, 1997 and neutering has the potential to change your 3 Source: Kanchuk, 2003 4 Source: Scarlett, 1994

Kittenguide 28 • 29 For older kittens

Between four and six months, the rate of growth slows down to allow the skeleton to strengthen and muscles to develop. However, a kitten’s NUTRITION energy needs during this period remain high. for kittens KITTEN (Kittens up to 12 months old)

The kitten’s nutritional needs are specific A balanced nutrient content supports the healthy growth of bones and muscles and features a tiny, during the first weeks of their life and will easy-to-eat kibble. change as they grow older. Royal Canin has nutritional solutions to address the different needs of kittens based on their age, lifestyle or breed. KITTEN INSTINCTIVE™ For young kittens (Kittens up to 12 months old) Nutritional From weaning to four months, a needs of kittens This small, thin slices-in-gravy food is perfect for kitten will grow very fast. The kitten are different from kittens’ tiny mouths and is specially formulated to develops their skeleton and increases adult cats be instinctively preferred by kittens. their birth weight by 5 to 7 times Very young by the age of 8 weeks. Their energy kittens aren’t ready for needs at this stage are very high and Diets can dry food milk teeth appear. For spayed/neutered kittens be formulated to support a healthy From four to five weeks of age, the gastrointestinal KITTEN SPAYED/NEUTERED kitten begins to wean from mother’s milk (Kittens from 6 to 12 months old) to solid food. This food is first offered in tract either the form of gruel (prepared by adding a Controlled fat levels help maintain a healthy weight, little warm water or kitten milk replacer to dry while added protein, antioxidants and prebiotics help spayed and neutered kittens thrive. kibble) OR an appropriate canned wet formula.

MOTHER & BABYCAT (Queens during gestation and lactation and young kittens from weaning to 4 months old) Meets the high energy needs of the pregnant mother For Persian kittens while helping to protect the natural defenses of the young kitten and features a tiny, rehydratable kibble Persian Kitten for easy weaning. (Persian kittens up to 12 months old ) Protects the kitten’s natural defenses while a unique BABYCAT INSTINCTIVE™ kibble makes it easier for the Persian kitten to grasp (Weaning and intense growth in young kittens and chew their food. from 1 to 4 months old) This extra-soft mousse helps ease the transition from mother’s milk to solid foods and is specially formulated to be instinctively preferred by young kittens. Kittenguide 30 • 31 SPAYED/NEUTERED APPETITE CONTROL 7+ (Cats from 7 to 12 years old) This moderate-fat formula features a unique fiber NUTRITION blend to help cats feel fuller longer and antioxidants for spayed & for increased vitality. neutered cats

Spaying and neutering

Spaying and neutering are common procedures SPAYED/NEUTERED 12+ (Cats over 12 years old) that have the potential to change a cat’s life. These simple operations have been linked to With increased antioxidants to fight aging and nutrients several life-changing benefits, including: longer for joint support, this formula is perfect for helping your life expectancy, preventing unwanted litters, cat age gracefully. friendlier demeanor toward humans and other animals, and less fighting and marking among male cats. The same hormonal changes that lead to all of these benefits for spayed and neutered cats can SPAYED/NEUTERED also cause energy requirements to drop by up (Cats over 1 year old) to 30%1 and appetite to increase by 20%2 within the first 48 hours of surgery.3 This combination A perfect complement to our dry formulas, moderate energy levels and balanced vitamins and minerals has a tendency to lead to weight gain. In fact, help adult cats maintain a healthy weight. spayed and neutered cats are 3.4 times more likely than other cats to be overweight.4

KITTEN SPAYED/NEUTERED (Kittens from 6 to 12 months old) Controlled fat levels help maintain a healthy weight, while added protein, antioxidants and prebiotics help spayed and neutered kittens thrive.

SPAYED/NEUTERED APPETITE CONTROL (Cats from 1 to 7 years old) 1 Source: Belisto, 2009 A unique blend of fibers helps spayed and neutered 2 Source: Fettman, 1997 3 Source: Kanchuk, 2003 cats feel fuller longer, and the donut-shaped kibble 4 Source: Scarlett, 1994 slows ingestion.

Kittenguide 32 • 33 NUTRITION for indoor cats INDOOR Beauty 35™ (Cats over 12 months old) Health nutrition for indoor cats An exclusive nutrient combination enhances natural coat color and helps support a beautiful and healthy Cats living exclusively indoors lead a tranquil life. skin and coat. The indoor cat spends more of their time eating and sleeping than taking any form of exercise. They have only moderate energy requirements. A food adapted for only occasional play should allow them to maintain an ideal weight. INDOOR Intense Hairball 34™ (Cats over 12 months old) ® INDOOR Adult 27 A specific blend of fibers encourages elimination (Cats over 12 months old) of hair swallowed while grooming and supports Limit stool odor and hairballs with this moderate- healthy digestion. calorie formula designed for less active indoor cats.

INDOOR Light 40™ INDOOR Mature 27™ (Cats over 12 months old) (Cats over 10 years old) This high protein diet with moderate fat levels may Supports the aging cat with powerful antioxidants, help to prevent excess weight gain and maintain while softer kibble protects sensitive teeth and gums. lean muscle mass.

Kittenguide 34 • 35 Cats natural preferences

NUTRITION Some cats choose foods based on aromas, while other cats choose foods based on flavor and texture for special needs cats or how the food makes them feel after they eat it. To meet the natural preference of every cat, even Cats with special needs the pickiest, Royal Canin has developed three exclusive nutritional solutions for fussy cats. Sensitivities of variable severity at certain periods in a cat’s life are due to a variety of factors such Based on the latest research in palatability, these as changes in environment, diet, seasonal, or products are designed to respond to a cat’s special features related to each individual cat. individual preferences.

SPECIAL 33 SELECTIVE 31™ (Cats over 12 months old) Aromatic Attraction (Cats over 12 months old) Highly digestible proteins promote healthy digestion for the cat with a sensitive GI tract. Formulated with a carefully crafted aromatic profile for picky cats that choose a food based on how it smells.

ORAL SENSITIVE 30™ SELECTIVE 34/29™ (Cats over 12 months old) Savor Sensation (Cats over 12 months old) Unique kibble size, shape and texture provide a brushing effect to help reduce plaque formation and Features two formulas with distinctly different flavors slow ingestion to help support digestive health. and textures for cats that choose a food based on how it feels in their mouth.

HAIR & SKIN 33™ SELECTIVE 40™ (Cats over 12 months old) Protein Preference (Cats over 12 months old) Helps to support the skin barrier while working to maintain a healthy, beautiful coat. A unique balance of protein, carbohydrates and fats for picky cats that choose a food based on how they feel after they eat it.

Kittenguide 36 • 37 Ragdoll (Ragdoll cats over 12 months old) Maintains the beauty of the Ragdoll’s semi-longhaired coat while a unique kibble shape specially designed for the Ragdoll’s broad jaw makes it easier for them NUTRITION to grasp and chew their food. for pedigreed cats

Specific breeds Siamese (Siamese cats over 12 months old) Persians, Maine Coons, Ragdolls and Siamese Added protein content preserves muscle mass, aren’t just ordinary pets. They’re special animals while a unique kibble encourages chewing and with totally unique nutritional needs. Royal Canin slows ingestion. breed specific formulas are designed specifically to address those needs while supporting optimum health and beauty.

Persian Kitten (Persian kittens up to 12 months old) NUTRITION Protects the kitten’s natural defenses while a unique kibble shape makes it easier for the Persian kitten for cats with outdoor access to grasp and chew their food.

Outdoor cats

Persian Cats with outdoor access can lead a very active (Persian cats over 12 months old) life. When outdoors they can run, climb trees Almond-shaped kibble is easy for flat faced Persians and explore their territory. These cats have a to grasp, and a special formula helps reduce hairballs high energy expenditure that varies with the and maintain a long, beautiful coat. seasons and the frequency of going outside. A cat that goes outside puts their immune system under heavy stress, especially when in contact with other animals. They may contract a contagious disease, pick up parasites, or even Maine Coon ingest poisons. Dry foods are specially formulated (Maine Coon cats over 15 months old) to help maintain your cat’s good health and correct weight. Promotes healthy joints and a shiny coat, and the special large kibble encourages chewing and ADULT FIT 32™ slower ingestion. (Cats over 12 months old) Formulated to support the natural defenses of active cats that have exposure to the outdoors.

Kittenguide 38 • 39 WET NUTRITION ULTRA LIGHT (Cats over 12 months old) for cats This reduced-calorie formula with added protein is designed to support a healthy weight while maintaining muscle mass. A perfect complement to ® Royal Canin dry formulas INTENSE BEAUTY (Cats over 12 months old) Only Royal Canin® Feline Health Nutrition™ canned wet formulas are designed around a This formula is instinctively preferred by adult cats and cat’s nutritional needs and instinctive preferences. is formulated to support your cat’s coat looking healthy and beautiful coat. By using Macro Nutrient Profile science, Royal Canin has designed nine formulas that contain the optimal balance of fats, proteins SPAYED/NEUTERED and carbohydrates that cats instinctively prefer (Cats over 12 months old) based on their age, lifestage or special needs. Moderate energy levels and balanced vitamins and To learn more about the Macro Nutrient Profile minerals help adult cats maintain a healthy weight. science in Royal Canin canned wet formulas, visit www.royalcanin.us.

DIGEST SENSITIVE BABYCAT INSTINCTIVE™ (Cats over 12 months old) (Kittens 1 to 4 months old) This highly palatable formula contains a moderate This extra-soft mousse helps ease the transition from calorie level for weight maintenance and highly mother’s milk to solid foods and is specially formulated digestible proteins to reduce stool odor. to be instinctively preferred by young kittens. INSTINCTIVE 7+ KITTEN INSTINCTIVE™ (Cats 7 to 12 years old) (Kittens 4 to 12 months old) Formulated to support older cats’ vitality, this formula This small, thin slice-in-gravy food is perfect for contains nutrients that are instinctively preferred kittens’ tiny mouths and its specially formulated to by adult cats and soft slices are easier on sensitive be instinctively preferred by kittens. teeth and gums.

ADULT INSTINCTIVE™ AGING 12+ (Cats over 12 months old) (Cats over 12 years old) An optimal balance of protein, carbohydrates and This canned formula is instinctively preferred by fats helps maintain an ideal weight and is formulated senior cats and helps support their joints, kidneys, to be instinctively preferred by adult cats. teeth and gums.

Kittenguide 40 • 41 TRAINING

Behavior and Training 44 Your Kitten’s Home 46 Your Kitten’s Activities 48 Your Kitten’s Personality 50 Your Kitten’s Communication 51 Body Language 52

Kittenguide Behavior AND TRAINING

The essentials of your kitten’s education take Unfavorable environment place during the period from birth to the age of six months. In fact, most behaviors are acquired by If the environment in which the kitten has the age of three months, thanks to the mother’s developed is low in stimulus (for example in dominant role, as well as siblings. an isolated place), it is advisable to take them The kitten learns in two different ways: they start away as soon as they are eight weeks old and by imitating their mother’s actions, and then try to bring them into contact with other cats. they learn by themselves by means of You need to socialize your kitten by offering experimenting. In this case, they act and them as many external stimuli as possible: face the consequences of their actions. handling by different people, confrontation with If the kitten finds the response noises of different intensities, and contact pleasant, they tend to favor the action. You are partly with other animals. Integration into the responsible for new home will take longer, but the results So, when you adopt a kitten, your your kitten’s will be the same. contribution to the foundations of education It may take longer their education is limited but still to train a kitten makes you responsible. You have that has not been to complete their education, in the properly socialized context of their new environment, Kittens need and correct any unwanted behaviors. a stimulating environment Favorable environment

A favorable environment includes surroundings where your kitten socializes easily and familiarizes themselves with people and the environment. If the kitten has been raised with the mother, it is advisable to leave them until weaned. Education will be more complete and your kitten will fit more easily into the new home. A kitten that has been handled by several people from a very young age will be more curious and open to life. Similarly, familiarization with different noises of everyday life allows the kitten to become comfortable in the environment of their new home.

Kittenguide 44 • 45 Some kittens have not learned this litter box lesson previously, if this is the case, you can help teach the kitten. Place the kitten in the Your kitten’s litterbox. Dig a hole with the paw and then show the kitten how to cover what they have excreted. Repeat this exercise once or twice and the HOME kitten should start to do this behavior.

To live in harmony with your kitten, it is essential Rest area to understand the organization of their territory and basic activities. Once their territory is defined, Your kitten prefers to rest in a warm spot. A your kitten will spend most of the time sleeping. space near a heat source (heating vents, sunny When not sleeping, the main occupations will window, etc.) is best. Being close to you is be playing, eating and cuddling. always important, so the kitten’s bed should not be too far away from your living area. However, A cat’s territory is exclusive and quality is more your bedroom may not be the right place unless important than space. you intend to have them stay there always. You will not be able to take away from your adult cat Your kitten will identify your home as their what you allowed them to do as a kitten. territory. Inside your home, the kitten organizes their life around four key areas. You must Introduce the kitten to the new bed or make the respect this organization without disturbing them, transport carrier accessible with the same bedding or you risk causing certain behavioral problems for familiarity. in your kitten.

Eating area

This must be removed from their litter box and from your own eating area. Avoid your kitchen or your dining room so that your kitten does not confuse your plate with their dish and sample your meal. This could lead to a nutritional imbalance. 4 2 Play area 1 Feeding area: food and water Lounge dishes should be placed well away from your kitten’s litter tray. This is the biggest area. It must be conducive to 1 Hall 2 Sleeping area: put her basket playing, racing about, and climbing up high (tables, Kitchen 3 somewhere warm (e.g. a sunny window) cupboards, shelves, the backs of furniture, etc.). Storage room and not too far away from the center of family life. 3 Hygiene area: you should put your kitten’s Litter box litter tray in an easily accessible spot, well Bedroom away from her food and water dishes and the This must always be easily accessible by your family rooms. The litter tray must be cleaned regularly and often. kitten and should be distant from their food dish 4 Play area: your kitten needs a suitable place to and your living area. run around in, with high objects like tables, cupboards, shelves and sofa backs that she can jump up on. From five to six weeks old, a kitten will use the litter box, often spending a lot of time covering their stool. Kittenguide 46 • 47 Your kitten’s ACTIVITIES

Exercise is essential for your kitten’s well being. It provides a means to channel energy into toning muscles, rather than using that energy for destructive purposes. Favorite exercises are those which allow them to climb, perch, jump, sharpen the claws and play with toys (ball of paper, toy mouse, hard ball with bell, etc.) Play Playing is a major part of the kitten’s socialization. Playing encourages exploration of their surroundings and develops physical capabilities. Playing is also an antidote to isolation. Sleep For the cat, playing and hunting are two closely A kitten has two distinct sleep phases, deep and linked activities, and a toy is often identified as light sleep. the prey. Your kitten’s natural hunting instinct may lead to aggressive behavior. Don’t hesitate Deep Sleep to reprimand the kitten and make sure they Until the kitten is eight weeks old, they are in a understand such behavior is not acceptable. state of deep and continual sleep, a phase during which the hormones essential to growth are Roosting secreted. At two months old, the continuity of Your kitten loves being up high. sleep decreases and your kitten alternates Being at the same height as your between light and deep sleep. face makes them happy. They can rub against you, as with Exercise can Light Sleep an equal. If your home does keep your kitten From two months old, the sleeping rhythm will away from not have enough places gradually change towards that of the adult cat, destructive that are high and safe, try activities i.e. 16 hours a day on average, split into several to make some by changing Adult cats periods throughout the day. During this phase your surroundings a little or sleep 16 hours of light sleep, your kitten sleeps with one ear by providing a cat tree. a day on average listening and is attentive to the slightest noise. Never wake This first light sleep is generally followed by a deep your kitten from sleep in which your kitten is completely relaxed. deep sleep

Kittenguide 48 • 49 Your kitten’s COMMUNICATION Your kitten’s The image of solitary feline in no way reflects the kitten’s ability to communicate with fellow PERSONALIT Y pets or with people. The kitten demonstrates extraordinary talents of communication. They also use different methods of communication These tests are simple and quickly help you to depending on whether they want to make them- become familiar with your kitten’s personality. selves understood to people or other animals.

Aluminium Foil Ball Test Language with people Roll a ball of aluminum foil in front of your kitten. Kittens While your kitten does not understand your If they are slow to react, they may be expressing communicate with language, apart from certain words, they are fear or great indifference to outside movement. their bodies very sensitive to your body language and Noise Test and facial expressions postures. They can understand what you are Clap your hands loudly with the kitten seeing Kittens use their whiskers to feeling (sorrow or joy) and even anticipate you. If they act curious while staying calm, your communicate with what you are going to do. kitten has been brought up in a full and other animals stimulating environment. If the kitten runs away, Kittens can Your kitten is continually communicating you must very quickly expose them to the understand what with you through a full and explicit body noises of everyday life, so they may become you are feeling language of great variety. accustomed to the sounds of your household. Facial expressions Socialization Test Observe your kitten from a distance: The shape of the eyes and the position of the ears If your kitten runs to play with your shoelaces are accurate indicators of what they want to express. or rubs up against you, they have been well Neutral cat socialized. Ears upright and open, If your kitten is nervous and tries to run eyes round. away when you approach, they may not have IMPORTANCE been properly socialized or has a more timid Angry cat OF WHISKERS personality. It is essential to start this phase Ears straight twisted to the Never cut the whiskers. again, provide toys and play with your kitten. sides, eyes puckered. A cat uses their whiskers Dominance Test for the tactile exploration of their surroundings. A kitten that easily allows their tummy to be Aggressive cat Their whiskers are also stroked while lying on their back has perfectly Ears down, pupils round used to communicate assimilated your parental authority — they will be and dilated. docile and good tempered. If the kitten struggles with other animals. or tries to scratch, they have not accepted Happy cat your authority and handling them may provoke Ears open and forward unexpected reactions like biting when stroked. upright, eyes half closed, pupils in slits.

Kittenguide 50 • 51 Sounds

Purring Kittens start to purr when first feeding from their mother and it expresses huge satisfaction as well as total dependency on the mother. When your kitten purrs with you, they are showing submission BODY and contentment. language Growling and Hissing This is intimidation and can be used in an attack. Meowing Movement There is a huge variety of meows, each with their own meaning. You will learn to recognize them Rubbing Against You by observing your kitten. They are connecting with their territory. With this movement, the kitten deposits hormonal secretions Territory markings from the glands under the ears against your ankles. This act of sharing scent shows you that your Your kitten’s habit of marking territory is a natural kitten feels good and includes you in their territory. behavior and means of communication. It is made by depositing scents, hormonal secretions Kneading or scratch marks. When the kitten kneads their paws at you for long periods, they are expressing intense Scent Deposits pleasure. Your kitten is revisiting the joy Marking with urine and/or feces is by far the A kitten may most common. Mainly males do this, after stress they felt when feeding from their mother. identify you with (transport, intrusion of another animal, etc.). This The same push-pull movement was their mother used around the mother’s breast to There are many territorial marking is intended to inspire fear stimulate the flow of milk. The copied types of meows, and make any intruder go away. The spray of movement indicates that the kitten each expressing urine is horizontal and powerful and generally something identifies you with their mother. marksa vertical surface (base of wall, etc...). Marking different Hormonal Secretions Rolling on the Ground territory is a When the kitten rolls on the ground as soon natural behavior Specific hormones, known as pheromones, play as they see you, they are showing submission. a major role in a kitten’s sexual and territorial This position is only possible with people around behavior. The kitten marks a place another animal whom the kitten is totally relaxed; this is an act of (dog or cat) has rubbed against. This gesture submission associated with an earlier moment is an invitation to share territory and a sign of of relaxation. acceptance which can only take place when the kitten feels completely confident. Tail Waving Scratch Marks When the kitten moves their tail, they are These marks that your kitten may leave on your expressing irritation. If you are stroking your kitten furniture or walls have no precise explanation. It and they start to wave their tail, stop immediately. is not known if the scratch marks are combined They are telling you that they don’t like what with possible secretions coming from glands next you’re doing. to the paw pads, regardless they mark territory. Such markings, which may also be a form of exercise, can sometimes turn catastrophic when the cat is afraid and becomes anxious.

Kittenguide 52 • 53 HEALTHCARE

Caring for your Kitten 56 Preventive Measures 57 Vaccinations 58 Internal Parasite Prevention 59 External Parasite Prevention 60

Kittenguide PREVENTIVE CARING FOR measures

your kitten Care of nose and ears

Cleaning Your Kitten’s Nose The first visit to the veterinarian is not a simple Some cats may have dry nasal secretions in the consultation, but an in-depth examination. corner of the nostrils. You can easily remove these This comprehensive health check-up will evaluate with a warm, wet cotton ball or tissue. your kitten’s physical condition and will address Important: any health concerns. A dry or snotty nose indicates you should consult In the event your kitten was given to you, this may your veterinarian. be the first visit, and a time for all the necessary Cleaning Your Kitten’s Ears

vaccinations and checks. Your veterinarian will The basic rule is to touch the ears as little as complete your kitten’s health record and will Consult a possible. If there is an obvious and unpleasant give you useful advice on grooming and specific veterinarian if looking discharge, you need to consult your behaviors common to their breed. your kitten’s nose veterinarian for a precise diagnosis. He or she is dry or snotty Ask your veterinarian if you need to bring in a will recommend the appropriate treatment stool sample or any paperwork from the purchase Touch the ears and ear solution. or adoption. as little as possible Important: Microchips When cleaning the ears, never use cotton can help reunite swabs, nor a water or alcohol based solution. lost pets Permanent identification

Cats may be identified by the insertion of a tiny microchip under the skin. Identifying your kitten will aid in finding them if lost or involved in a natural disaster. Qualified veterinarians insert microchips, which contain information on both the cat and the owner and can aid in a quick return home.

Spaying or neutering your kitten

These operations can be performed from the age of 6 months (and sometimes even earlier) and protect kittens from many infectious diseases. Consult your veterinarian for more information.

Kittenguide 56 • 57 INTERNAL parasite prevention

VACCINATIONS Internal parasites, such as worms and protozoa, affect kittens more often than adult cats because Vaccinations help prevent contagious and their immune systems are not yet fully developed. sometimes fatal diseases. Some are mandatory, Your veterinarian will advise you on deworming while others are only recommended, and may and necessary treatments. vary according to the location, age, lifestyle and immune status of the kitten or cat. Vaccinations are most effective when they are given at fixed Protozoa dates with booster vaccinations at specific times. Only your veterinarian can identify these The feline vaccines include: parasites and prescribe the appropriate • Distemper (FVRCP) treatment. There are two micro-organisms • Feline Leukemia (FeLV) that commonly infect kittens: • Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) Giardia • Rabies Vaccinations Fix onto the mucous membrane of the small Generally speaking, kittens are help prevent the intestine, causing diarrhea, incomplete digestion, spread of contagious vaccinated starting at eight to nine and a gradual loss of bodyweight. diseases Booster weeks of age. For optimal immunity, Coccidia vaccinations these vaccines should be administered Are also parasites of the digestive system. at intervals of three to four weeks are necessary for until kittens are 16 weeks old. Initial optimal protection vaccinations Worms Any adult cat or kitten older than 16 should begin weeks of age receiving an initial between 8 and 9 Your kitten should receive regular deworming vaccination should be administered two weeks of age treatments during their initial vaccination doses of vaccines at an interval of three to series. Your veteri­narian can make specific four weeks apart. Adult revaccination occurs recommendations for routine deworming based one year after the end of the initial series, on your cat’s lifestyle (indoor, outdoor, etc.). then follows the protocol recommended by Two types of worms are frequently found in kittens: your veterinarian. Round Worms Rabies virus vaccines are usually administered These worms lodge in the kitten’s small intestine, between 12 and 16 weeks of age as a single dose, where they form balls and can cause intestinal with revaccination occurring one year later. obstructions. They can be detected by the presence Adult revaccination may be annually or every three of eggs in the kitten’s stool or on anal areas. years, depending on local and state statutes. Tape Worms Tapeworms fix onto the walls of the intestine and cause bloating, diarrhea and sometimes damage to the coat. Their presence can be detected in the stool. They look like grains of rice.

Kittenguide 58 • 59 Ear Mites This ear infection is caused by mites living in the EXTERNAL ear canal. The presence of an abundant, blackish and waxy discharge and the shaking of the head parasite prevention or rubbing with the paw is usually a sign of ear mites. Treatment: follow your veterinarian’s advice. External parasites found most commonly on kittens Ticks are fleas, ringworm, ear mites and ticks. Ticks are picked up almost exclusively outdoors. If you have a cat that goes outside, check your Fleas cat regularly for ticks. They prefer to attach The prevention of fleas is a much easier task than themselves around the neck and ears. Ticks can treatment. Flea prevention involves using either cause inflammatory reactions where they are oral or topical medications recommended by a attached. When removing a tick, be very careful veterinarian at regular intervals. Prevention to remove the tick’s head. should be all year long, but most importantly during the spring and summer months. Kittens For advice on removal and prevention, please and adult cats can be sensitive to many over- contact your veterinarian. the-counter medications, some of which may be very harmful. If your kitten already has fleas, they, as well as their environment, may need to be treated in order to resolve the problem. Treatment of the environment includes vacuuming; treatment of the kitten Flea prevention may include topical medications to is easier than kill fleas and oral medications to treatment treat parasites the fleas can carry. If your kitten Please seek veterinary advice for goes outside, proper medications and other products check regularly for environmental care. for ticks Ringworm is Ringworm a fungal infection In spite of the name, ringworm is not a worm, but a contagious fungal infection which affects the skin. Ringworm is difficult to diagnose because of the numerous signs it can induce. It is resistant, widely spread and contagious. Ringworm can affect humans and almost all animals. Treatment is long and complex and you should follow your veterinarian’s advice carefully.

Kittenguide 60 • 61 FIRST AID

First Aid for Cats 64 Emergency Action Steps 66 Poisonous Substances 68 Toxic Plants 69 My Pet’s Information 70

Kittenguide FIRST AID for cats Handling and transportation • Don’t assume a cat won’t bite or scratch. Even if you provide your cat with everything they • Don’t try to comfort an injured cat by hugging need — regular grooming and veterinary check-ups, them. Don’t put your face near their head. an appropriate diet, lots of love and care ­— accidents • Wrap the cat in a towel. can still happen. It’s important to be prepared for • Perform any examinations slowly and gently. these situations. Knowing what to do may save your Stop if the cat becomes agitated. cat’s life. Read this section carefully and review it periodically. Keep this guide handy in the event of an emergency.

Checking vital signs Supplies for a Remember to call your • Use rectal, not oral, thermometers for cats. Kitten First-Aid Kit veterinarian immediately for Newer human digital thermometers are best. • Alcohol-based disinfectant any medical emergency. • Heart rate can be checked by placing a hand • Antibiotic cream over the cat’s chest. • Antiseptic solution • Respiration can be measured by observing • Bandaging materials: the flanks. gauze pads and rolls, self-adhesive elastic wrap, • Measure both rates for 15 seconds, then tube socks for slipping over multiply by four to get the rate per minute. an injured paw Make sure the cat is in a calm, resting state • Cotton balls to ensure normal rates. • Eye dropper • Extra blankets, towels and pillows Normal Vital Signs • Hydrogen peroxide Heart rate: 160 – 240 beats/minute • Petroleum jelly Respiration: 20 – 30 breaths/minute • Rectal thermometer Temperature: 101° – 102.5° F • Blunt end scissors • Towels • Transport crate • Tweezers

Kittenguide 64 • 65 The following situations generally require veterinary attention. These action steps are designed to help you stabilize your pet while veterinary help is being obtained. EMERGENCY Call your veterinarian immediately for any medical emergency. action steps

Bleeding Heat Stroke Limping Unproductive Vomiting Urination Apply a clean cloth Place in cool shaded Observe your pet and Examine vomit for 1 or sterile gauze to 1 area with a fan. Take 1 attempt to localize Repeated straining 1 blood or other clues the wound. rectal temperature. If injury. 1 in the litter box and as to cause. over 104° immediately inability to urinate is a call your veterinarian. If the bleeding Call your veterinarian. true emergency. If poisoning is 2 doesn’t stop call 2 2 suspected, bring a your veterinarian. Transport to a pet Cover any wounds with Call your veterinarian sample of the suspected 2 hospital. 3 a clean cloth. 2 or emergency clinic. poison, preferably in Don’t apply a tourniquet Continue to monitor See Bleeding. its original packaging, unless instructed by temperature. Proceed immediately to the veterinarian. your veterinarian. 3 to veterinarian. Abdominal pain, Possible causes: enlarged stomach and Possible causes: Broken limb or digit; acute arthritis; 3 Excessive heat and/or lack of unproductive vomiting injury to footpad; dislocation; sprain; Possible causes: shade; overexertion; lack of water are serious signs. muscle soreness Urinary crystals or stones; mucus Call your veterinarian plugs; bladder inflammation; stress immediately.

Possible causes: Poisoning; abdominal injury; motion sickness; disease; overeating; fear; brain injury; parasites

Call your veterinarian immediately for any medical emergency. Kittenguide 66 • 67 TOXIC POISONOUS plants substances Remove all indoor plants that are in reach of your new kitten as many household plants are toxic to cats. A list of common harmful plants is below or you can ask your veterinarian for Vomiting is commonly caused by the ingestion of harmful substances. There are many items a complete list. that are known poisons to cats. Just like with children, make sure these items are locked up so your kitten can’t get into them. For more information on poisonous substances, or for an item that isn’t listed here, please consult the Pet Poison Helpline at 1-800-213-6680 or Systems Affected by Toxic Plants www.petpoisionhelpline.com. Lower G.I. Tract Upper G.I. Tract Nervous System • Alfalfa • Caladium • Belladonna Signs Common Poisonous Household Substances • Amaryllis plant and bulbs • Calla Lily • Bleeding Heart • Beech • Christmas Rose • Buckeye • • Acetaminophen (Tylenol) • Laxatives Vomiting • Bird of Paradise • Dumb Cane • Cardinal Flower • Antifreeze • Lead • • Black Locust • Elephants Ear • Chinaberry Diarrhea • Anticoagulants • Lye • Box • Four O’clock • Coriaria • Aspirin • Phenol • Difficulty breathing • Castor Bean • Jack-in-the-Pulpit • Datura • Bleach • Matches • Crown of Thorns • Philodendron • Golden Chain • Abnormal urine • Boric Acid • Metal Polish • Daffodil plant and bulbs • Skunk Cabbage • Henbane (color, aroma or odor, • Brake Fluid • Mineral Spirits frequency) • Daphnia • Indian Tobacco • Chocolate • Mothballs • English Ivy • Jessamine • Salivation • Dandruff Shampoo • Nail Polish and Remover Cardiovascular System • Euonymus • Jimson weed • Deodorants • Foam • Almond Pits • Weakness • Honeysuckle • Marijuana • Deodorizers • Paint • Apple Seeds • Hyacinth plant and bulbs • Mescal Bean If your cat should ingest • Diet Pills • Paint Remover • Apricot and Cherry Pits • Iris • Moonseed something harmful, contact • Disinfectants • Rat Poison • Foxglove • Jerusalem Cherry • Morning Glory a veterinarian or poison • Carburetor Cleaner • At-Home Perm Solution • Hydrangea control center immediately. • Nightshades • Periwinkle • • • Larkspur Drain Cleaner Photographic Developers (including tomatoes) • Poison Hemlock • • • Lily-of-the-Valley Dry-Cleaning Fluid Pine-Oil Disinfectants • Pencil Cactus • Rhubarb • • • Monkshood Dye Rubbing Alcohol • Poinsettia • Tobacco • • • Oleander Fire Extinguisher De-Icers for Melting Snow • Potato • Yew, all varieties • • • Peach Pits Fungicides Shoe Polish (green parts and eyes) • Water Hemlock • Furniture Polish • Sleeping Pills • Precatory Bean • Yellow Oleander • Pills (Coumadin) • Snail or Bug Bait (Rosary Pea) • Gasoline • Suntan Oil with • Snow-on-the-Mountain • Hair Coloring Cocoa Butter • Spurge • Herbicides • Tar • Tulip plant and bulbs Highly Toxic, Possibly Fatal Toxic Plants • • Turpentine • Wisteria plant and bulbs Insecticides • Daylily • Easterlily • Yew, all varieties • Kerosene • Windshield-Wiper Fluid

Call your veterinarian immediately for any medical emergency. Kittenguide 68 • 69 My pet’s INFORMATION

Information

Pet’s name:...... Breed:...... Sex:...... Date of birth:......

Feeding information

Formula name:...... Change to adult food at: ...... months Food portions: ...... Cups/Grams: ...... Times per day Provide clean, fresh water at all times

Medical information

Allergies:...... Special medications:...... Special conditions or instructions:......

Emergency care givers

Name:...... Name:...... Address: ...... Address: ...... Phone: ...... Phone: ......

Kittenguide 70 • 71 For 45 years, Royal Canin has been researching and formulating nutrition that puts cats first. But just because we’ve been successful in the past doesn’t mean we aren’t constantly looking to the future. Through constant study and observation, we work hard every day to create innovative nutrition formulated specifically for your cat.

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© Copyright ROYAL CANIN SAS 2013. All rights reserved. Credits photos : Y. Lanceau, F. Duhayer, J.-M. Labat-Rouquette September 2013 M310741