First steps First The essential

guide. in Settling Feeding Health Behaviour Grooming Travelling Caring A new breed of store The ultimate guide everything for your kitten under one roof. to caring for your new kitten.

Cattery At selected stores 02 08 16 28 First steps Settling in Health Travelling

At selected Rewards 02 The joys of a 08 10 things to do 16 Best of care. 28 Car safety for stores Great deserve great rewards new kitten. before bringing 18 Common health your kitten. 04 7 things you need your kitten home. problems for 29  on to know before 10 Kitten checklist. kittens. holidays. Insurance becoming a 11 Getting started. 19 Kitten dental kitten parent. 12 The essentials. care. 06 Kitten’s Nutrition Parasite development. Control 30 Caring Saving Lives Programme 14 20 30 Kitty dilemmas. Feeding Behaviour 32 Tech advances Advice 14 What should I 20 Helping your to streamline feed my kitten? kitten to use your’s and your litter. pet’s life. 22 What is my 33 Bonus vouchers. kitten saying? 35 Kitten moments. 23 Boredom busters for your kitten. 24 A guide to your kitten’s instincts. 26 For all your kitten needs, think Animates. Grooming For more info, visit animates.co.nz 26 Keeping your kitten safe from parasites. 27 How to groom Shop your way your kitten.

In-store Repeat Delivery Online Have your favourite pet products delivered to your door when you need them! How steps First exciting! The joy of a new kitten.

The cuteness, the cuddles and so much love being sent your way.

You’ll probably notice a change in how you do things, too.

You’ll want to give your kitten the best life ever. Become the best parent possible, showing kindness, discipline, love and understanding every single day.

It’s true, kittens make us better people.

In the following pages you’ll find all you need to look after your new family member. These essentials are designed to make your new role easier and to keep your kitten happy and healthy for years to come.

#thepeteffect

Animates

2 animates.co.nz 3 especially when you’re not

7 things you steps First around. Interactive toys that allow you to get involved in need to know playtime are also important and provide a balance of physical and mental stimulation that will help to avoid your kitten developing before becoming behavioural issues. 6. They scratch Scratching is a natural a kitten parent. behaviour and helps them Kitten love keep their claws neat and tidy. In saying that, you’re New parent Sasha probably not going to shares the joy of bubble wrap your entire kitten parenthood. house so your best bet is I adopted Nala as a to get a scratching post kitten. When I brought for your to play on and her home with me she sharpen their claws, this will cried a lot and was very help to save your furniture. shy, but she immediately stuck to my side. I was 7. Introduce other working from home at the time, so I was lucky pets slowly enough to spend a lot of While adapt to new time with her as she put their litter tray in a surroundings quickly, they 4. Not all cats are settled in. After her initial Thinking of adopting a furry feline friend? low-traffic area of the house don’t always warm to other the same timidness, she felt right as they need their privacy, pets at quite the same Here’s what you need to know before While some cats are at home and has too! pace. If you already have welcoming a kitten into your family. lap-lovers, others like to managed to claw every another pet, like a dog, you be free agents and will piece of furniture in the 3. Felines are smart genuinely be happy in their should know you can’t force 1. Have you thought research and understand the house! I never knew I Don’t underestimate cats, own company. While they will pets to like each other, so it’s monetary investment and would be a cat person it through? they’re a lot smarter than often come to you when they best to go slow in the also the lifelong commitment – she has changed my While cats can be fairly you think… and they will try want affection, most cats are introduction process. For to this new little family life for the better. She independent, they do to outsmart you if they get impressively individual and animals, smells are far more member. sleeps at the top of my require a level of care and the chance! They have an important than independent – doing what pillow every night and maintenance, including innate ability to learn appearances, so try getting they want, when they want. starts pawing my face in regular veterinary check- 2. Cats need their quickly, solve problems and your pets used to each the morning after 6am. ups and medical care, own space adapt to their environments. other’s scent before they 5. The power of While people think I am ongoing preventative Some cats are more social This can often be incredible meet face to face. Try parasite treatments, such than others. Either way, it’s playtime obsessive about her, she to watch as they use their Environmental enrichment swapping the blankets or as flea and worming control, important to ensure that their completes my day. I smarts to navigate their is very important for our beds they use before appropriate nutrition and, environment has their own come home and she lives around your home. feline friends, particularly meeting. in some cases, regular space – somewhere they can runs to the door – she That said, it can also get indoor cats. You’ll need lots professional grooming. retreat when they want some makes my house a you into trouble at times. of fun toys to occupy them, It’s important to do your alone time. It’s also good to home.

4 animates.co.nz 5 14-16 weeks Your kitten’s At 14-16 weeks of age, steps First your kitten can have their third booster vaccination. From here, your veterinarian, in consultation with you, will development. determine your feline friend’s long-term vaccine program. The recommendations will be 12 months onwards Your cat is now considered an Bringing a kitten into your home is an important and exciting milestone. guided by your cat’s lifestyle adult! They’ll need to switch to It’s only the first of many as your pet grows into an adult cat. and environment. adult to better suit their metabolism. They’ll need: Six to eight weeks • Adult cat food - we suggest Kittens should have their At this time, a kitten to choose from our range of will require their first veterinary health check Superior Nutrition brands. and the commencement of second vaccination. This is typically • New collar and bed, based on their vaccination program given between 10-12 their growth. between six and eight weeks of age. weeks of age, which will help protect them from disease and illness. Kittens Six to 12 months are usually fully weaned by From month six onwards, your kitten eight weeks old, which is why is in an adolescence stage, which can they are not available for last until they’re 18 months old. You adoption until after this time. should be worming your kitten routinely every three months from this point onwards. This age is also an important milestone for desexing your Newborn kitten. All pets should be desexed Kittens at this stage rely between the ages of four and six solely on their mother until months, as it has a range of benefits. they’re three or four weeks They’ll need: old. A kitten at birth will • Flea and worming treatment weigh around 100 grams. 10 to 12 weeks • Dental care essentials (see page 19) Between 10-12 weeks most kittens will • A trip to the vet. Find your nearest go off to their new home! See the Kitten Animates Vetcare clinic at Checklist on page 10 for all the items your animatesvetcare.co.nzanimate kitten will need. Keep your kitten indoors for six weeks after you first get them Two to six weeks home. Your kitten will start to come out of Feel free to chat to your local A kitten’s eyes will start to open and their sense their shell and exhibit playful behaviour. Animates team to find everything of smell and hearing will improve. This is when an This is the time that they require their your kitten needs at every stage. intestinal worming regime starts. They require worming second booster vaccination. Find your Head to animates.co.nz/pettalk to every fortnight until 12 weeks of age, then monthly nearest Animates Vetcare clinic at find more information on kittens. until six months old. Their first teeth start to come in. animatesvetcare.co.nzanimatesvetcare. co.nz 6 animates.co.nz 7 1. Remove dangerous That said, they’re bound Prepare your home obstacles Your kitten’s to have the odd accident just like any other pet, so it’s for the arrival of your Your kitten is a curious little first night pet who will want to play and best to be prepared. Have new kitten. Getting They may find it hard to explore. Your job is to make cleaning products on hand settle in. To help, here your home in order sure that dangerous items, that are pet-friendly, as are some tips: will make sure your such as cords, are out of it’s the best way to avoid • Set up a designated mishaps with chemicals. kitten has a safe and harm’s way. space for their bed – secure environment. this may be the laundry. 8. Don’t forget their

2. Store chemicals • Make sure they can in Settling securely snuggle into blankets. food Make sure you are well Make sure you store any • Ensure they have stocked with food and treats. dangerous chemicals such access to water and as bleach or floor cleaner out their litter tray (not next Initially, keep your kitten on of your kitten’s reach, as their to each other). the food they were being fed prior to adoption. If you want curiosity can easily get them • Give them a bed to call into a lot of trouble. their own. to change your kitten’s food, you should transition slowly. • If your kitten cries Make sure you look for food 3. Organise their bed overnight, ensure they Kittens spend a lot of time have all necessities that’s specially formulated sleeping, up to 16 hours per e.g. they are fed and for kittens. If you’re not sure day on average. All this rest warm. Settling in can what’s best consult your local helps with growth and be scary, take the time Animates store or Animates development. It’s essential to comfort your kitten Vetcare clinic. Treats are also and be patient while that you provide a important, as you can use they adjust. comfortable bed to snuggle in them to reward your kitten that’s warm, cosy and safe. • If your kitten is for good behaviour. struggling to settle, you may want to consider 9. A scratching 4. Gather the toys a crate for them to Kittens need lots of toys sleep in. post is a must to play with as they are Scratching is a natural extremely active – have a behaviour so you don’t want variety of toys on hand to kitten checklist and it’s to discourage it. Instead, keep yours entertained. best that you find a litter reward them when they and tray that your kitten is scratch in the right place. 5. Prepare your kids comfortable with sooner Have a scratching post in If you have young children, it’s rather than later, so they can place from day one and really important to explain start using it. You may need make sure your kitten knows 10 things to do that they must be gentle with to trial a number of varieties that it’s okay to scratch the new kitten. Children will of litter before you find the away on it, rather than your want to snuggle and play. At best one for your kitten. furniture. first, this has to be limited as Natural litter types such before bringing your kitten needs a lot of rest as paper, pine or clay are 10. Pick up a carrier and may feel overwhelmed. recommended. A good kitten carrier is essential for getting your 6. Find a good litter 7. Be ready for new kitten home and taking your kitten home. and tray accidents trips to the vet. Litter is an essential on the Kittens are very clean pets. 8 animates.co.nz 9 Feather Teaser Your kitten checklist. 50cm Everything you need to prepare for the arrival of your new kitten. Trouble & Trix Glamourpuss brush The essentials Useful items

Food – Superior Nutrition for your Bowls – It’s important for your kitten kitten’s development. If your kitten to have their own bowls away from

isn’t already eating Superior Nutrition other pets for stress free feeding. in Settling food, introduce it to them slowly to Also remember to keep their litter avoid an upset tummy. tray away from bowls. Hill’s Science Diet Durapet Kat Attack Wet and dry kitten food Litter, litter liners, tray and scoop – Cat door – Once your kitten has Scratch post milford Stainless bowls Talk to the team in-store for advice settled in over 6 weeks or so, you can and saucers on what litter and tray is best for you train them to use the cat door. and your kitten. Brushes and combs – Keeps their Collar and ID tag – Personalise your skin and coat in good condition and Getting started. kitten’s collar with their name and prevents matting. Animates has everything you need to ensure your contact details. Treats – Reward good behaviour. your new family member is settled and happy. Flea and worming treatments – Don’t forget to book your kitten in for a free health check Emerald Pet Visit “The Spot” in-store for advice – Available in spray or dried with Animates Vetcare (see vouchers page 33). Dental cat treats on the best treatment for your kitten. form, this can encourage your cat to So phresh use their scratch post. Cat litter Carrier – Essential for safe travelling with your kitten. Get them used to it Stain and odour remover – For easy from a young age. clean up of accidents. Aristotray Litter tray and Bed – Warm bed so they feel Microchipping – Identifies scoop comfortable and safe. your kitten so you can be Mix & match contactable and they can Cat toys Scratch post – Can help save your make their way home. furniture and encourages your kitten to explore and play. Kong change and may not be available at all stores.

Products shown are indicative only, subject to Catnip spray Toys – Kittens need toys for chase, play and to stimulate their minds.

Red dingo Cattery Kitten collars with bell Advantage Providing a comfortable and safe home Covering all your vet care needs - Flea treatment offering consultations, vaccinations, away from home for your kitten. Talk to your local Animates team wellness programmes and Playmate to find everything your kitten laboratory testing. Find your nearest clinic and cattery at Pet carrier needs, at every stage. 10 animatesvetcare.co.nz 11 Pet Insurance As your newest, small family member, The your kitten will need a number of trips to the vet in his/her first year. Taking out pet insurance may save you on consultations, surgery and medicines. Kittens and cats adopted

essentials. in Settling from Animates come with 30 days There are plenty of life-admin tasks you can put off for a few free cover. months, but the paperwork for your new kitten isn’t one of them.

90% Of cat owners in New Zealand don’t have pet insurance*. For more on pet insurance, head to animates.co.nz

Your healthy pet Purebred kittens checklist If welcoming a new purebred kitten Registered breeders, pet to your family, get to know their feline adoption centres and the family tree. Breeders should come Animates Saving Lives with papers that show they’ve been programme will take care of a registered with the relevant breed kitten’s first vet health check, association or club. Ask the breeder for vaccination, flea and worm the registration and vet records of your treatments, and microchip before kitten’s parents, including certificates they can go home with you. showing they’ve been screened for *Source: Companion Animals in New Zealand 2016,

The New Zealand Companion Animal Council Inc. common hereditary diseases. Be sure to get a record of the vaccination and parasite prevention treatments so Microchipping and registration you know when to Microchips are a small device about the size of a grain of rice. They are implanted in book your kitten the soft scruff of the neck by a veterinarian. They have a unique microchip number in for their next that when registered, links to your contact details. A microchipped and registered dose. You’ll also missing pet is three times more likely to get home when lost. Register your need copies for microchipped pets with the New Zealand Companion Animal Council, a your kitten’s first not-for-profit lost pet database. cattery vacation.

To find out more information visitanimalregister.co.nz

12 animates.co.nz 13 Visit animates.co.nz for more on feeding your kitten

Kittens develop rapidly, Check the range available diets are expensive consideration and a cost both physically and and select a food marked as compared with other brands. per day is calculated, they mentally. You need a “kitten” diet. These diets Due to their high digestibility compare favourably, Superior Nutrition to are specifically formulated to and high calorific density, especially when the quality What support this growth and meet the needs of cats less your cat needs a smaller of the ingredients and the help strengthen their than 12 months old. Be aware portion to meet their benefits are factored in. immune system. that the quality of the range nutritional needs. When this should I will vary. In most instances, fact is taken into Choosing these foods will you will pay more for Superior give your kitten the best Nutrition that contains possible start. the best-quality vitamin and Benefits of Superior Nutrition feed my mineral ingredients. They also optimal health. When you first get include DHA, which is A higher-quality • Digestible ingredients your kitten important for developing diet is vitamin-rich, Feeding nutritionally dense with that help avoid hairballs kitten? You shouldn’t change your brain function. These foods quality proteins, fats and lead to smaller, kitten’s food in the first contain real meat, such as and carbohydrates for firmer and less-smelly few days in their new chicken, as the first healthier cats that need waste. Deciding what to feed your kitten is an home. Moving house and ingredient. As a rule, kittens less in their bowls (smaller • Promotes skin and important decision. Here’s everything you changing families is very should get about 30% of serves) and leave less in coat health. need to know to ensure your kitten has a stressful and can affect their energy from protein, so the litter tray (less waste • Helps to support the your kitten’s digestive provide a diet that contains a healthy and nutritionally balanced diet. to clean up). best possible gut health system. Keeping them on quality source of protein. • Support for developing the diet they’re used to will Check the label and look for Choose from our range of immune systems. reduce the chance of a balance of real proteins, Superior Nutrition brands • Encourages strong stomach upsets or fats and oils, minerals, at Animates or Animates joints and lean muscles. diarrhoea. When you are vitamins and carbohydrates. Vetcare, including Hill’s • Wet foods optimise ready to change your For advice on what food is Science Diet kitten water intake for cats, kitten’s diet, do so over the best for your kitten, talk to food (pictured), and which is vital for their course of seven days, your local Animates or your kitten will reap the urinary tract health. gradually introducing their Animates Vetcare team. rewards. new food mixed with the These include: old one. Wet and dry mix- • Formulated for specific Turn to page 33 to find a voucher feeding breeds, life stages for kitten food. Choosing their food It’s a great idea to offer both and health conditions. wet and dry food to ensure • Quality ingredients Did you know? the best possible nutrition • No added artificial and to ensure proper Day 1-2 Day 3-4 colours or flavour Cats are obligate 25% new 50% new hydration. If you decide to enhancers. carnivores and feed a mixture, ensure you • DHA to enhance brain require much more convert the feeding and nervous system protein in their requirements so you don’t development. diets than dogs. Day 5-6 Day 7 overfeed your pet. 75% new 100% new • Blend of vitamins and minerals for What about the cost? You may think higher-quality 14 animates.co.nz 15 First steps It’s recommended to take You can reduce the risk of zoonotic your kitten to your local disease by: Animates Vetcare or local vet within a week of bringing them home. The veterinarian will perform a full physical examination and discuss the best preventative healthcare Cleaning out litter Disposing of faeces plan with you, which will trays regularly. in the tray quickly. include your new kitten’s vaccination schedule. Monitor your kitten’s behaviour around the house before their first vet visit so that you can discuss any behaviour or health Washing your cat’s Isolating unwell cats. concerns that you may bed often. have. For tips on a safe trip to the vet, see page 28. Health Vaccinating SOAP your kitten Your kitten’s vaccination schedule should begin between six and eight Washing your Did you know? weeks of age. Kittens’ hands frequently and Wearing gloves when immune systems are very cleaning your children’s gardening in case of Purring has healing hands after playing. powers. Scientists susceptible to disease, contact with faeces. have discovered that which is why it is so the frequency of important to safeguard cats’ have the them from potentially fatal and environment. You will transmission of disease from potential to promote diseases. receive a vaccination cats such as toxoplasmosis, healing in their owners. Vaccination schedule: card that helps log due to their vulnerable • First vaccination their vaccinations. immune systems. This is why between 6-8 weeks old parasite prevention and • Second vaccination Why your cat’s general hygiene is so between 10-12 weeks old health matters important and why keeping •  Third booster to you your cat healthy keeps your between 14-16 weeks old While it’s not common for family healthy. See page 26 Best of care. Cats need booster humans to catch diseases for more info. vaccinations to ensure from cats, it can happen. A healthy kitten is a happy one, so it’s important to give long-term immunity. Your These types of diseases Turn to page 33 To find your local them the best start to life. Here’s everything you need to to find a voucher veterinarian will recommend are referred to as zoonotic for your kitten’s Animates Vetcare an ongoing plan for diseases. Small children know about visiting the vet with your kitten. free health check. clinic, visit vaccinating your kitten and pregnant women are animatesvetcare.co.nz based on their lifestyle more susceptible to the 16 animates.co.nz 17 Share pics of your kitten smiling on Instagram and tag #animatesnz Common health Kitten dental care. problems for Just like people’s teeth, cat’s teeth need to be looked after to ensure they stay in tip-top condition. Here are some pointers for kittens. your kitten’s best dental health. As your kitten starts to settle as a reward. First, let them Dental in with you, they should start taste the toothpaste then, As kittens’ immune systems are still developing health kit to become accustomed to using a nice soft finger brush, and they’ve just moved homes, it’s really important having their mouth examined. gently rub the paste over their to watch out for any worrying symptoms. This will help you maintain teeth. Start slowly and work their dental hygiene and your way up to brushing their Cats are good at hiding that they’re make it easier for the teeth. Brushing every day is unwell. This makes it difficult to tell veterinarian to inspect their ideal for optimal health. when your furry friend is exhibiting teeth further down the track.

any symptoms that you may need Once they are comfortable Don’t forget about Health to be worried about. If your kitten is with this, you can put a plan their gums unwell, you may notice a lack of in place. Your kitten’s gums should look energy or a change in behaviour. pink and healthy, not irritated What are the other signs you Look to their diet and sore. An important part of shouldn’t ignore? Your kitten’s Superior Nutrition looking after your pet’s teeth is dry food helps to protect their to massage their gums to Symptoms that can teeth from plaque and tartar. stimulate good oral health. C.E.T. Home indicate your kitten is sick: Over time, a diet of wet foods Dental Kit • Lethargy alone can lead to gingivitis Spotting dental • Diarrhoea and even loose teeth. This is problems in cats • Vomiting why we recommend a mixed If you see your kitten rubbing • Sneezing diet, as well as dental treats their mouth with their paws or • Runny eyes and nasal that have the seal of licking their food rather than inflammation approval. Just be careful chewing, they may have a • Unable to defecate you’re not overfeeding them. dental issue. You • Trouble urinating should also • Loss of appetite Brush their teeth watch out for If brushing your kitten’s teeth, drooling, a sore you need to use a specific mouth, sudden cat-friendly toothpaste. decreased If you notice any of the symptoms above or anything out of the ordinary, speak with your local Animates Vetcare clinic to make an appointment. Using a chicken- or appetite and Seek treatment for your pet before it turns into something more serious. beef-flavoured option will bleeding gums. help your kitten see brushing

18 animates.co.nz 2119 Helping Helpful hint it’s important to your kitten keep their litter tray clean and ready for them to use litter. to use.

While kittens take to litter trays fairly intuitively, getting this right is important. Follow these six steps and your kitten will be using the litter tray in no time.

1. Find the right litter 3. Find the right spot tray first up Place the litter tray in a You should look for a tray quiet spot out of the way of that’s large enough for your household traffic for privacy. kitten to move around in The best place is in a corner and one that they can climb of a room, away from their into easily when it’s time to food and water bowl. go. Some kittens like more 4. Control their space privacy, so you can also

When you bring your new Behaviour choose an enclosed litter tray. kitten home, it’s best to territorial behaviour and 2. Choose the best allocate your pet a smaller inappropriate urination in the Finding the best litter litter for you space like the laundry until long run. they get used to their new Choosing the right litter 6. Reinforce their Pine litter Crystal litter highly absorbent, quickest for your kitten is just as home – this will also help with good behaviour Pine litters are made These 100% silica crystals to absorb moisture and important as the tray itself. toilet training. It will also keep If you want your kitten to from 100% sustainable are non-clumping, most economical. Cat litter is available in a them close to the litter tray quickly learn how to use wood in the form of long-lasting, lightweight, Non-clumping litter avoids variety of materials and each when they need to go and their litter tray, you should shavings compressed into non-toxic and very mess outside the tray have their pros and cons. encourage them to use it. get in the habit of physically pellets. It is compostable, absorbent. This is not while being absorbent and Options vary from natural 5. Keep in mind placing them inside it when biodegradable and made recommended for young economical. varieties, such as recycled they first wake up in the If you are introducing a from sustainable resources. kittens in case it is ingested. paper or pine, which are the morning, a few minutes after new kitten into a home that If you have any questions, safest options for kittens to eating and drinking, and already has a resident cat, Paper litter Clay litter feel free to ask a friendly clay litter, which forms clumps after play. Gently encourage you need to make sure that Made of recycled paper, This variety is available Animates team member when wet for easy removal, them with your words, rather each of the cats have their it is chemical-free and in both clumping and for advice on choosing the and crystal litter. than raising your voice. own litter tray. This will help ultra-absorbent while non-clumping varieties. best litter for your cat. to prevent any unwanted suitable for composting. Clumping clay cat litter is

20 animates.co.nz 2321 Did you know? Learning to decode kitten language Cats have developed Boredom around 24 different vocalisations in order to I’m happy communicate with us. • Tail extended straight up. • Eyes half closed. busters for • Pupils narrowed. • Purring. What is my • Whiskers naturally your kitten. to the side. • Kneading a soft surface. kitten saying? • If their tail starts to quiver, Kittens are playful little things that need don’t think your cat’s lots of mental stimulation. Make sure you afraid or anxious, they are offer them lots of toys to beat boredom. While having a chat with your cat may sound actually telling you that far-fetched, it turns out you and your kitten they’re extremely content! have a language all of your own. I’m angry Kittens seem to pack a lot to communicate with other or irritated 3 great of personality into their cats, except when fighting. • Tail swishing rapidly. kitten tiny bodies! Your kitten Your kitten will use their • Ears flat on their head. toys will use a combination of voice to let you know what • Whiskers curled forward. vocalisations and body they need. When it comes • Constricted pupils. language to tell you what’s to their body language, going on in their world, it’s remember that not all cats I’m feeling just a matter of learning to are the same and to look at Play together defensive Behaviour There are a number of toys on offer that will let interpret them. your cat’s body language • Rolling on their back and as a whole – that way, you you and your kitten play together. Teaser toys on a exposing their stomach Cat talk won’t take what they’re string and toys on a rope will involve you in the game (this can sometimes It’s been established that trying to tell you out and let you have heaps of fun with your kitten. This mean your cat is content. kittens only use their “” of context. play time will help you bond with your new pet and Scratching post, teaser toy That said, if they extend to talk to their humans. They establish a strong friendship. and mix & match toys don’t really use their voice their claws and bare their teeth, it usually means e! they’re uncomfortable). Solo play Up to scratch at m P • Hissing or growling. You’ll want to give your kitten a range of toys Providing your kitten with a scratch • Ears flat on their head. that let them entertain themselves. Toys should post or scratch toy is a great idea. You • Tail between their legs be offered on a rotational basis, offer your kitten can encourage your kitten to use their three or so at a time and swap them out on a scratch post by spraying the toy with (or a ‘bushy’ tail). regularly. This keep toys ‘new’ and exciting. Balls, catnip spray and/or playing chase • Crouched down low tunnels, and toy mice are just the start of the using a teaser. It is best to buy the to the ground. huge selection of toys on offer at Animates. You largest scratch post or pad that you can even find electronic toys that will keep your can afford as you really want your cat kitten stimulated for hours. However, not all toys to be able to stretch out in a natural should be left unattended with kittens. scratching position. animates.co.nz 22 23 It is generally accepted that purring is an emotional A guide to your response for cats. A cat’s is one of the tools they use to express their feelings, particularly when they are feeling relaxed and happy. Cats also purr when they’re distressed, afraid or in pain, and even when giving birth, so it could be a self-soothing behaviour rather kitten’s instincts. than exclusively a show of contentment. It’s probably a means of communication, too. Purring starts when kittens are just a few days old, leading some to speculate they’re “talking” to their Descended from wild cats, our domesticated mother and encouraging her to feed them. kittens come with their fair share of personality Why quirks – it’s only natural! do cats purr? Scratching and kneading is normal behaviour cats Kneading is when a cat have inherited from their rhythmically alternates pushing wild ancestors. You can their paws against a soft surface, manage your cat’s scratching and such as the sofa, a rug or your lap. kneading by enriching their Kneading is one of your kitten’s more peculiar environment with accessories and behaviours that actually serves a number of Why toys. When our nails get too long important purposes for cats. Kneading begins do cats we clip them with a nail clipper – a virtually from day one, when a kitten kneads knead? cat can’t do that. The feline their mother’s teats to help stimulate milk solution for nails that are too long production. While behaviour experts aren’t is to start scratching on entirely certain what drives cats to knead something, as this is natural cat

beyond kittenhood, it’s widely thought they behaviour. The act of scratching Behaviour instinctively associate massaging a soft removes the old nails and allows surface with the cosy comfort of a mother’s the new ones to emerge. To help nurturing. Some adult cats even lick or suckle protect your furniture, your cat will the surface they’re kneading. The belief is that Why need a scratching post. Make sure kneading is both an expression of do cats it’s tall enough for them to stand contentment and a self-soothing mechanism. scratch? up on their hind legs with a Cats are thought to knead to help themselves sturdy base so it won’t fall over. relax and unwind. Ensure it’s covered in a tactile Why do material, like carpet or sisal, there cats mark are even options with platforms their and hidey-holes for play. Kittens make themselves at home by territory? Remember: the more fun you marking territory. You may see them rubbing their make it, the better chance it’ll be face and body repeatedly against your legs, walls, flooring used for scratching, rather than and furniture to spread their scent. If a kitten is having your couch! trouble settling in, they may begin marking territory with urine instead of using the litter box. Kittens may be more likely to do this if they’re feeling anxious. If you’re worried about your kitten’s behaviour, visit your nearest Animates Vetcare clinic or see your local vet. 24 animates.co.nz 25 Keeping your kitten safe from parasites. How to

Kittens are susceptible to fleas and worms. The good news is that they can be treated and often prevented. groom

Fleas Worms How can I prevent While we normally associate Worms are nasty parasites parasites? your kitten. warmer weather with fleas, that can affect kittens Over-the-counter these parasites are resilient all and some worms can be prevention can be year-round. If you don’t treat transmitted to humans. administered as a tablet, While cats are superb self-groomers, regular your pet with parasite Symptoms that may identify spot-on or spray. These brushing by you will keep your kitten’s coat prevention regularly, they are that your kitten has worms products have unique extra shiny and healthy. at higher risk of health include weight loss, diarrhoea, benefits with some problems associated with weakness and an enlarged providing protection from pesky parasites. The flea stomach. Kittens should be more than one parasite lifecycle can be difficult to wormed every two weeks until including fleas and beat. Flea eggs go from larvae 12 weeks old, then monthly intestinal worms. Some Starting slow from being brushed once a formulated for cats - not dog to pupae stage and will stay until six months old, and every brands are safe to use on Regular grooming is week. Consistent brushing shampoo, human shampoo present in your kitten’s fur and three months following that. kittens from four weeks of important for maintaining stops their hair from or other soaps, as these can environment (including However always refer to the age and will protect your your cat’s health. Most cats matting, removes loose contain ingredients that can bedding and toys), waiting for leaflet provided with your cat from a range of love to be brushed, especially fur and reduces the risk of be harmful to cats. the ideal temperature to treatment for recommended parasites. Be sure to check if this is a habit that’s irritating hair balls caused hatch. Maintaining year-round dosage and treatment on the packet though. developed from an early age. by excessive self-grooming. Your kitten’s nails flea prevention will help to intervals. Ringworm is also a Make sure your kitten feels For the best results, use a Clipping the nails of kittens avoid an infestation during concern. It is not a worm, but comfortable being patted all comb first and work it from and cats that go outside peak seasons. a fungus on the skin that can over and is slowly introduced front to back within the line is not recommended as it be contagious to humans. to their combs and brushes. of fur. Loose fur can then be leaves them unable to climb Keep your first grooming removed with a slicker brush trees, get away from danger

sessions short – only five to or a rubber mitt. or protect themselves. Grooming ten minutes – then gradually Having a scratch post will Flea and worm increase the time until your Can you give your help the nails stay in good solutions pet is used to the routine. kitten a bath? condition and prevent them Visit ‘The Spot’ at your We do not recommend to getting overgrown. local Animates store, Grooming basics bath your kitten as it can for all the flea and If you have any Grooming your kitten remove essential oils. It is If you feel unsure, ask worm requirements for concerns about your depends on their coat and generally, only necessary your Animates Vetcare your kitten. kittens health, visit whether they have long if your kitten is muddy or clinic or see your your Animates Vetcare or shorter hair. For long- if recommended by a vet. local vet for advice clinic or see your haired cats, we recommend If you do need to wash on clipping your local vet. brushing every day. Short- your kitten, make sure you kitten’s nails. haired breeds may benefit use a shampoo specially 26 2927 Kittens on holidays.

As much as you love your kitten, there will come a time when you have to go away and leave them behind. There are lots of options so you can have peace of mind on your trip.

Car safety Use a boarding staff on hand should or cat-sitter, to either cattery or vet they become ill. Boarding stay with your cat for the A boarding cattery is a catteries tend to offer larger duration of your holiday, for your kitten. facility that looks after cats quarters, as well as extras or visit every day. The when their parents cannot. like enclosed outdoor play great thing about having There are catteries in all areas, though costs are someone care for your cat major cities and towns, likely to rise along with the in your own home is that While you may not be planning to and many vet clinics, such degree of luxury. they won’t be stressed out Tips for a stress-free by being taken away from take your kitten for lots of road trips, car journey as Animates Vetcare, also offer cat boarding services. Use a professional their usual environment. it’s important to make them • Line the carrier with something The main advantage of cat-sitter comfortable to maximise their soft like a towel or bed. boarding your cat with The next best thing to you Ask a friend safety when they are in the car. • Feliway spray the carrier prior a vet is that there are being at home is hiring a If cost is a factor, you could to putting your cat in to experienced medical professional pet minder, consider asking a trusted alleviate stress. friend, neighbour or family The first step to your most importantly, safe • Bring some treats to reward member to mind your cat kitten’s car safety is during the commute. good behaviour. while you’re away. Ideally, their cat carrier. You’ll Your kitten’s carrier • If your cat does not ask someone who is able need to take your kitten can be seen as a place spontaneously enter the carrier, to stay at your place and to the vet regularly, so of refuge by them, so calmly place them into the maintain your pet’s normal you need to ensure your make sure their first carrier through the opening. diet and routine. If your kitten is comfortable introduction to it is as • Secure the carrier on the back cat will need to go to a with the experience and anxiety-free as possible. seat of your car with the different house, check that seatbelt, or against the front it’s escape-proof and take seat, and cover it with a towel. lots of home comforts to Feliway spray • Drive smoothly, without loud help them settle in, such music, talking to your cat in a as familiar toys or a crate Feliway uses a special scent soothing voice; the calmer you or cat carrier they can that is a replication of the are the less anxious your cat retreat to if they’re feeling pheromone cats leave will be. If possible, keep Handy tips overwhelmed. Travelling naturally when they are windows closed for extra safety. feeling comfortable in their Ensure your cat has • If your cat is reluctant, wrap environment. This scent is an up-to-date ID To find your nearest them gently in a towel that odourless to people and other tag, also check their Animates Vetcare has their scent or Feliway animals and will help to keep microchip details Cattery visit spray on it. your cat calm during car trips. are up-to-date. animatesvetcare.co.nz

28 animates.co.nz 29 Why do cats sleep so much? Cats seem to spend their Kitty entire days sleeping, most likely after pouncing on your chest at the crack of dawn. The average cat naps for 15 hours a day, with kittens dilemmas. and older cats sleeping even longer. So why does your pet keep such strange hours? during the night and asleep comes down to their body Bringing a kitten into your home is a big step and Cats may not spend a lot of during the day. This is not temperature – once wet, you’ll be faced with the odd challenge. Here are some time awake, yet when they strictly true. In fact, the they find it hard to feel kitten-related frequently asked questions. do, they use lots of energy. majority of domestic cats are warm again. Whether they’re stalking a most active at both dusk and bird, chasing string or using dawn rather than only at How long do their scratcher, your cat night. Because of this, cats cats live? exerts a lot of energy laze around during the day, Contrary to the popular in short bursts. This means particularly when the sun is saying, cats don’t have nine they need recovery time. at its hottest, and are most lives. Their lives are getting active in the early morning longer though. A cat is Why do cats bring and in the early evening considered senior at nine you dead things? hours of twilight. Whereas big years of age. Thanks to Domesticated cats have cats in the wild, from which nutritional and medical retained their wild hunting our domestic feline advances, it’s not instincts and it’s impossible companions descend (lions, uncommon for cats to live to take them away. When tigers etc.), are typically beyond the standard your cat brings a mouse or a nocturnal hunters. So, if your lifespan of 12 to 15 years of bird and presents it to you, cat is displaying nocturnal age. Animates Vetcare has they are demonstrating their characteristics, it means had feline patients as old as natural survival instinct to they’re channelling their inner 21 years of age. By taking hunt. The best way to curb lion! good care of your pet’s this behaviour is to stimulate health, you can increase their natural hunting habits. Why do cats hate their chances of living to a By giving them plenty of toys water? ripe old age. Providing your and indoor play activities, For an animal so adamant cat with a Superior Nutrition such as balls, wands, on being clean, it’s a diet is important for automatic interactive toys wonder that most cats maintaining a healthy and plenty of opportunities don’t like water. While many weight and delivering the for climbing and scratching cats explore their water nutrients they need. You Did you know? you’ll be keeping them bowls with their paws, and can help ward off entertained, making them become curiously bewitched life-threatening illnesses Cats aren’t just less likely to turn their around dripping faucets with regular trips to your remarkable because of attention elsewhere. and showers, most don’t local Animates Vetcare for their quirky personalities appreciate being wholly – each cat’s nose has a all your pet’s vaccinations, unique pattern, similar to Are cats nocturnal? drenched in water. While boosters and general a human fingerprint. A lot of people believe that there are a few reasons check-ups. Caring cats are nocturnal, or active for this, the main one 30 animates.co.nz 31 20% off 20% off Superior Nutrition Kitten wet food Tech dry kitten food advances to streamline your’s and your pet’s life. 20% off 10% off One cat item One cat item Technology has come a long way! of choice of choice Us humans have enjoyed some Excluding food and flea treatments Excluding food and flea treatments pretty incredible advances and the pet world is no different. Here are some top tech buys for kittens.

Interactive cat toys Electronic feeders Microchip % To keep your cat entertained, Motion-activated bowls help cat flaps 10 off you can find a huge variety of keep smells locked away and Keep your home secure amazing electronic toys. The flies off. The Surefeed Sealed with a cat door that Flea or worm treatment Frolicat Bolt toy is an interactive Pet Bowl opens when it detects only opens when it laser light that provides hours your pet using motion sensors. registers your pet’s of fun. Simply hold Bolt in This keeps the food fresher and microchip - no stray your hand or place it on a flat prevents wet food from drying cats can sneak inside! surface. Turn it on and watch out, making it more palatable A SureFlap Pet Door To find your local Animates store visit animates.co.nz your cat pounce, chase, and for your kitten. Connect & Hub takes bat at the laser patterns! that a step further. The latest technology works with an app that can also be operated remotely. Settings can be adjusted to lock or Complimentary Cattery unlock the pet door Health Check and anytime. You can also Pay for 3 nights and know when your kitten $30 off Professional get your 4th free is at home and monitor Services long-term activity.

32 animates.co.nz To find your nearest Animates Vetcare clinic visit animatesvetcare.co.nz 33 20% off kitten wet food 20% off Superior Nutrition dry kitten food Offer valid from 3 December 2018 until 31 December 2019. Retail sales Offer valid from 3 December 2018 until 31 December 2019. Retail sales only. Discount is off full retail price. Cannot be used in conjunction with only. Discount is off full retail price. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or promotion. No rain-checks, customer orders or lay- any other offer or promotion. No rain-checks, customer orders or lay- bys. Not transferrable for cash. One voucher per person. One time use bys. Not transferrable for cash. One voucher per person. One time use only. Includes Hill’s Science Diet, Royal Canin, Wellness, Wellness Core, only. Includes Hill’s Science Diet, Royal Canin, Pro Plan, Nutro, Wellness, We love seeing your kitten Dine and Fancy Feast kitten food. Present voucher on redemption. Holistic Select, Nutrience Infusion, Nutrience Grain-Free and Black Hawk Grain-Free. Present voucher on redemption. pics! Here are some of our animates.co.nz checkout code: KITTENWET animates.co.nz checkout code: KITTENSUP Store to use - Ramsys Processing: F8 > Sales Price Change > Apply % favourites from Instagram. Store to use - Ramsys Processing: F8 > Sales Price Change > Apply % Discount > 20% > Voucher as reason > KITTENWET as Reference > OK Discount > 20% > Voucher as reason > KITTENSUP as Reference > OK Store to use - LS Processing: Store to use - LS Processing:

5090682241230 5090680578437

5090682241230 5090680578437

10% off one cat item of choice 20% off one cat item of choice Offer valid from 3 December 2018 until 31 December 2019 on a cat Offer valid from 3 December 2018 until 31 December 2019 on a cat prod- product only. Retail sales only. Discount is off full retail price. Cannot be uct only. Retail sales only. Discount is off full retail price. Cannot be used in used in conjunction with any other offer or promotion. No rain-checks, conjunction with any other offer or promotion. No rain-checks, customer customer orders or lay-bys. Not transferrable for cash. One voucher per orders or lay-bys. Not transferrable for cash. One voucher per person. One time use only. Excludes food and flea treatments. Excludes pets, services Purr-fect person. One time use only. Excludes food and flea treatments. Excludes pets, services and gift vouchers. Present voucher on redemption. and gift vouchers. Present voucher on redemption. animates.co.nz checkout code: KITTEN10 animates.co.nz checkout code: KITTEN20

Store to use - Ramsys Processing: F8 > Sales Price Change > Apply % Store to use - Ramsys Processing: F8 > Sales Price Change > Apply % Sweet dreams all! Discount > 10% > Voucher as reason > KITTEN10 as Reference > OK Discount > 20% > Voucher as reason > KITTEN20 as Reference > OK @arthur_frank_dot Store to use - LS Processing: Store to use - LS Processing: kitten

5090678102347 5090681589746 5090678102347 5090681589746 moments.

10% off flea and worm treatment Offer valid from 3 December 2018 until 31 December 2019 Retail sales only. Discount is off full retail price. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer Share your precious kittens or promotion. No rain-checks, customer orders or lay-bys. Not transferrable for cash. One voucher per person. One time use only. Veterinary products supplied by Animates Vetcare. Present voucher on redemption. with us by tagging @animatesnz and #animatesnz in your caption. animates.co.nz checkout code: KITTENFLEA

Store to use - Ramsys Processing: F8 > Sales Price Change > Apply % Discount > 10% > Voucher as reason > KITTENFLEA as Reference > OK Store to use - LS Processing:

5090679989893

5090679989893

To find your local Animates store visit animates.co.nz

Complimentary health check and $30 off professional services Cattery Offer valid from 3 December 2018 until 31 December 2019. Offer valid for new clients Offer valid from 3 December 2018 until31 December 2019. only at an Animates Vetcare clinic. Complimentary health check is valid for one Offer valid for new clients only at an Animates Vetcare Cattery. animal only and limited to a 15 minute appointment - any medications, vaccines, For full terms and conditions please visit tests, x-rays, surgery or further treatment plans will incur additional costs. $30 off professional services can be used for a consultation, desexing, vaccination health animatesvetcare.co.nz/vet-care-promotions check, microchipping or dental clean & polish. It can not be used for medications, Winter fashion has vaccines or products. For full terms and conditions please visit animatesvetcare.co.nz/vet-care-promotions never seen such style! COMPLIMENTARY HEALTH CHECK EZYVET PROCESSING: apply discount. @liamthelioncat i237015 Ramsys Processing: charge as normal, scan barcode for tracking purposes only. Pop in and EZYVET PROCESSING: apply discount. Ramsys Processing: charge as normal, scan barcode for tracking purposes only. i237014 check meowt!

$30 OFF PROFESSIONAL SERVICES EZYVET PROCESSING: apply discount. Ramsys Processing: charge as normal, scan barcode for tracking purposes only.

i237036 ‘Like’ us on Facebook for more cute kitten pics, competitions and upcoming events.

To find your nearest Animates Vetcare clinic visit animates.co.nz 35 Notes.

36 animates.co.nz animates.co.nz

Nutrition | Advice | Insurance

animates.co.nz/vetcare

Vetcare | Cattery