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Confinement for a Feral Kitten - what are the options?
By: Alfred
Feral kittens are terrified of most everything, and that
will include you. Some kittens will become so frightened
that they will go into shock, which is dangerous to their
health.
It is important that you take your kitten/s to a
veterinarian to be checked out for any diseases before you
take them home. To protect yourself and your other cats
should you have any, you should wear an apron or smock, wear
protective gloves and wash your hands after
handling the
feral kitten. This will prevent any disease from spreading.
If you caught the kitten in a cage then you should transfer
the kitten to a prepared crate or carrier. The crate or
carrier should have room enough for a
small litter box, a
food dish and a cat water bowl. Some
cat carriers have the
ability to fill food and water dishes without opening the
carrier, which will reduce the kitten's fear.
You want to put the cat crate or carrier where it is quiet and
out of the way. If you have no such place in your home, at
least put the kitten into the quietest room and cover most
of the cage so it feels hidden and safe. If you have small
children make sure that they can't get to the kitten/s.
Kittens seem to be an irresistible "toy" to children and
these kitten/s are easily frightened and can die if they are
over-frightened or roughly handled.
You want your kitten to be calm and comfortable. For the
next week you should make an effort to spend a lot of time
with the kitten. Sit next to the crate or cage and talk
softly to the kitten. Do not attempt to pet the kitten; this
is too familiar at this stage of your relationship.
This week is to get the kitten used to the sound of your
voice, the way you move and your scent. You can help speed
this process along by using an old shirt that you no longer
want for the kitten's bedding.
Always be slow, gentle and patient at this stage. If you
notice your kitten becoming over-excited and frightened by
your presence then you should leave and come back at a later
time. The point is to get your kitten used to your presence
so that you become an everyday part of its life.
