SPCA New Zealand

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Advice & welfare

Kitten Socialisation

​Kitten socialisation is the process of introducing a kitten to a variety of different experiences, environments, people, and other animals in order to help them become a confident and friendly adult cat.

Kitten socialisation is the process of introducing a kitten to a variety of different experiences, environments, people, and other animals in order to help them become confident and friendly adult cat.

Kitten socialisation typically begins when the kitten is around 2-3 weeks old and continues until they are around 7 weeks old, although it is important to continue giving them positive new experiences throughout their lives.

Socialisation involves giving your kitten positive introductions to new things. Use treats and praise to encourage calm and confident behaviour. Wands toys can be helpful to encourage timid kittens to relax and play.

Kittens should be gradually and safely introduced to different people of all ages, including children, as well as to different types of animals, environments, sights, sounds, and smells.

The socialisation process can involve bringing your kitten to different experiences like being in a cat carrier and traveling in the car.

Before they have completed their core vaccinations, kittens are vulnerable to disease. To keep them safe, avoid letting your kitten coming into contact with unvaccinated cats or areas where unvaccinated cats may have been.

Check out our socialisation checklist below!

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