Now that you're a parent of a super-cute kitten, it's time to focus on the practical aspects of cat parenthood. You're probably asking yourself questions like, "What litter is safe for my kitten?" or "What can I wash my kitten with?" Even longtime cat parents can use a refresher on these kitten care topics.
From carriers to collars, here are seven things pet parents need to know about what products are safe for kittens:
1. What Litter Is Safe for Kittens?
There are many options for litter material, including clay, pine, paper and even walnut shells. Then there's clumping or non-clumping — which is the safer option for kittens? As Petful explains, there is a very real risk of your kitten inhaling or ingesting clumping litter, either by eating it directly out of the box or getting it stuck in their paws. Once in the intestines, this litter can further clump and cause internal damage. Your best bet is to avoid clumping litter until your kitten can safely distinguish it from food.
2. Which Foods Are Safe?
Kittens younger than 5 weeks that are not able to nurse from their mother should be fed formula or "gruel" (kitten food mixed with formula). After that, you can feed your furry friend kitten-specific solid food, either dry, kibble or wet food. We recommend consulting your veterinarian before feeding any food regardless of age as they will know your kitten's needs best.
3. Which Kitten Shampoos Are Safe?
Cats are pros at keeping themselves groomed, but if you need to bathe your feline friend, using the right tools is key. Opt for a gentle cat-friendly cleanser that's free from harsh chemicals. "Never use dog shampoo," advises the South Boston Animal Hospital, "especially one that contains flea repellents, as those products can be toxic to your cat." Avoid human shampoo and dish detergent — even the most gentle ones can strip your kitty's skin and hair of necessary oils.
4. Which Kitten Collars and Tags Are Safe?
Even if your kitten has a microchip and/or is strictly an indoor cat, provide them with a safe collar and pet tag just to be safe. A pull-away safety collar is best for kittens; unlike the stretchy kind, they won't get their paws or face stuck in a safety collar. Cats of any age may chew on a dangling pet tag and get it stuck in their mouth. Opt for a belt-buckle style tag that sits flat against the collar: your kitty can't chomp on it and it's less likely to fall off.
Tasty Tips
5. Which Cat Carriers Are Safe?
Your kitty may not be in a carrier more than a couple of times a year, but they still need one that protects them during journeys. Choose a hard plastic carrier, recommends the Animal Hospital of North Asheville, because they're durable and easy to clean. Additionally, the top pops off easily in case your kitten won't exit through the front door. They also emphasize that the carrier shouldn't be too big: "Cats should be able to stand, sit and turn around in their carrier. Generally, a carrier should be one-and-a-half times the size of your cat." Not so big that your furry friend tumbles around in it.
6. Which Kitten Toys Are Safe?
Anything can be a kitten toy, from a rubber band to the curtains. Kittens are mischievous, so keep them away from those plastic bags and avoid toys that are small enough to be swallowed, especially those with tiny decorations. Cut off any potential hazards from the toys or swap them out for unadorned catnip pillows, large balls or even wadded up paper. Make sure to remove any string, as this can be a significant hazard to your kitten.
7. Which Flea and Tick Treatments Are Safe?
Never use treatments meant for dogs or other animals, including humans, on your cat. Pesticides in dog flea collars are typically toxic to cats. The Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine advises never to purchase flea or tick treatments without the specific recommendation of your vet.
In general, if you have any questions or concerns about what products are safest for kittens it's always best to consult your vet before using any new products on your kitten. A little research goes a long way in keeping your new fur baby safe, happy and healthy.
Related products
Hill's Science Diet Kitten Sensitive Stomach & Skin Salmon & Brown Rice Recipe
Highly digestible food that is gentle on the stomach. Nourishes skin & promotes lustrous fur.
Hill's Science Diet Adult Indoor Savory Chicken Entrée Cat Food
Precisely balanced nutrition for indoor cats with the delicious taste of savory minced chicken
Hill's Science Diet Kitten Liver & Chicken Entrée
Precisely balanced nutrition with the delicious taste of minced liver & chicken to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Adult Indoor Salmon & Vegetable Medley Cat Food
Precisely balanced nutrition for indoor cats with the delicious taste of savory salmon and vegetables
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Perfect Digestion Chicken, Barley & Whole Oats Recipe Cat Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome for cats age 7+
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Senior Vitality Chicken & Rice Recipe Cat Food
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Grain Free Salmon & Yellow Peas Recipe cat food
Grain free, easy-to-digest food that is gentle on the stomach. Nourishes skin & promotes lustrous fur.
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Senior Vitality Chicken & Rice Recipe Cat Food
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Chicken & Beef Dinner
Gourmet daily nutrition, carefully made. Tasty chunks with chicken & beef in a decadent gravy. Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous fur.
Hill's Science Diet Adult Chicken & Spinach Casserole Cat Food
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Tender Ocean Fish Dinner Cat Food
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Salmon & Vegetable Entrée Cat Food
Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous fur
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Chicken, Vegetable & Rice Stew Cat Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Hill's Science Diet Perfect Weight Salmon & Vegetable Canned Cat Food
Over 70% of cats lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Hill's Science Diet Adult Tender Tuna Dinner cat food
Delectable chunks with tender tuna smothered in a rich gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Hairball Control cat food
Natural fiber comfortably reduces hairballs
Hill's Science Diet Adult Indoor Ocean Fish Entrée Cat Food
Precisely balanced nutrition for indoor cats with the delicious taste of savory minced seafood
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Salmon & Tuna Dinner
Carefully made, gourmet daily nutrition. Tasty chunks with Salmon & Tuna in a decadent gravy. Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous fur.
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Indoor Chicken Recipe cat food
Healthy digestion for easy litter box clean-up
Hill's Science Diet Adult Hairball Control Ocean Fish Entrée Cat Food
Precisely balanced nutrition to help avoid the formation of hairballs with the delicious taste of savory minced ocean fish
Related articles
Helpful Tips for Bathing & Grooming a Cat
Part of keeping cats healthy is ensuring they are clean and well-groomed. Get tips on how and when to bathe and groom your cat.
Should I Get My Cat Groomed by a Professional?
Cats often do a lot of grooming themselves, but learn some sticky situations where consulting a professional groomer might be the right call.
Cats and Christmas Trees: How to Keep Both Safe
While it might be nearly impossible to separate your cat from your Christmas tree, learn ways you can combat her curiosity and keep her out of harm's way.
Why is My Cat's Meow Silent?
If you're wondering, "Why does my cat meow without sound?" read on to discover what a silent meow actually means (as well as the other types of meows).
The Science Behind Your Cat's Traits
Curious to know more about your cat? From how fast she runs to how high she can jump, learn what science has found out about your cat's distinct traits.
All About Your Cat's Sleeping Habits
Learn all about your cat's sleep schedule, why she seems to be most active during twilight hours and what it means to be a crepuscular kitty.
Suggestions for Grooming & Bathing Your Cat
Grooming is an important part of your aging cat's well-being. Learn tips to keep her looking good with these grooming tips for older, mature adult cats.
Do Cats Really Have Nine Lives?
Learn all about the ancient proverb of cats having nine lives, including its origins & where it came from, its meaning, and why the number nine was chosen.
Is Your Cat Scooting on the Carpet? Anal Glands May Be the Culprit
Find out why a cat scooting on carpet could be a sign of inflamed anal glands and what you can do to help relieve your cat's agitation.
What Is a Munchkin Cat?
Learn all about munchkin cats, including how to spot one, typical features & characteristics, personality, and any special care requirements.
Important Information on Food Allergies & Intolerance in Your Cat
Understand how food allergies and intolerances present themselves in cats, and what you can do to prevent and care for cats with allergies.
Ways to Maintain Your Cat's Healthy Coat
Learn the visual signs that your cat is healthy including what to look for in her skin, ears, and eyes, as well as as signs you should call your vet about.
Food Allergies, Intolerance & Your Cat's Sensitive Stomach
Learn about how food allergies might be responsible for your cat's sensitive stomach & vomiting, and how trying a hypoallergenic cat food can help.
Pain Relief for Your Cat: Dangerous Medications to Avoid
Know the risks of giving your cat over-the-counter pain medications, and how to properly care for their pain.
Cat Life Hacks: Making Life Easier for You and Your Cat
Has your cat care routine gotten stale? Spice it up with these helpful cat life hacks, including tips to help manage cat hair, scratching & litter boxes.
Heart Disease in Your Cat: How Nutrition Can Help
Heart diseases can manifest in cats similar to humans, so it is important to catch the warning signs early and consult your vet. Learn more now.
Senior Cat Problems: What You Should Know About Aging Cats
Get to know the problems often associated with aging cats, so you can help them get the most of out of their remaining years.
Understanding Your Overweight Cat
If you have an overweight cat, learn how this condition can affect your cat's health and tips for choosing the best cat food for weight loss.
Why Does My Cat Keep Unrolling Toilet Paper?
Cats and toilet paper are a mischief-making combo. Learn why your cat is so fascinated with unrolling toilet paper (and how you can help them stop).
Are Cats Protective of Their Humans?
Dogs are well-known for their loyalty, but are cats protective too? Learn whether cats defend their people and how to deal with an overprotective kitty.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.