Puppy & Kitten Care

Essential care for your new baby pet

Welcoming a Puppy or Kitten: The First Weeks

The first months of a puppy or kitten's life are critical for their lifelong health and happiness. Early care, nutrition, and socialization set the stage for a confident, well-adjusted adult pet. This guide covers the essentials for a safe, healthy start.

First Weeks at Home

Prepare a safe, puppy/kitten-proofed area with bed, water, and litter box or potty pads.
Keep the environment calm and predictable. Avoid overwhelming your new pet with too many new experiences at once.
Supervise interactions with children and other pets. Teach gentle handling and respect for boundaries.

Nutrition: Feeding for Growth

Feed a high-quality, age-appropriate puppy or kitten food. Consult your veterinarian for brand and portion recommendations.
Puppies: 3-4 meals per day. Kittens: 3-4 meals or free-choice feeding until 6 months.
Fresh water should always be available.
Avoid giving milk to kittens (unless orphaned and using kitten formula).

Socialization: Building Confidence

Gently expose your puppy or kitten to new sights, sounds, people, and other pets in a positive way.
Use treats and praise to reward calm, curious behavior.
Avoid forced interactions or overwhelming situations.

Training Basics

Start with simple commands (sit, come, gentle) and litter/potty training.
Use positive reinforcement: treats, praise, and play.
Keep sessions short and fun. End on a positive note.

Health Checks & Vaccination

Schedule a veterinary exam within the first week of adoption.
Follow your vet's recommended vaccination and deworming schedule.
Monitor for signs of illness: lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite.

Safety Tips

Puppy/kitten-proof your home: secure wires, block off unsafe areas, remove toxic plants and foods.
Supervise outdoor time. Use a harness/leash for puppies and a secure carrier for kittens.
Never leave young pets unsupervised with small children or other animals until trust is established.