Handling kittens

[dab_20]

Speaking from my own experience, when Mattie Grace's babies were born, I handled them from the very beginning. The more you handle them, the better socialized they are and easier to place. Just watch Mama's body language. Talk softly to her while you're handling the babies. This will reassure her that she can trust you.

Thanks very much. Oreo is a barn cat and we are moving her inside. She isn't just an ordinary barn cat because she's SO friendly and loves people, even strangers.

[kitimom]

I, like Moo, have handled them from the git go. I helped Cheese birth her babies and she always let me hold them.

[catmandu]

Just be very careful with Kittens that small as thier bones are still forming.
I never touched Gary and Ivon,except to move them into the Spare Bedroom.
I know that they are so tiny and cute at that age.

[Maya & Inka's mommy]

The most omportant thing is to let the meowmie-cat "smell" her kittens as soon as they are born. Once that is over, she won't reject them, I think.

[rg_girlca]

Yes, you can hold them, but very gently in the palm of your hand and not for too long. If the kitten starts to mew, mama can become very agitated over it.

[rg_girlca]

I remember you asking about what litter to use once the kittens are old enough to teach them how to use the litter box. First off, you have to make sure the litter box is low enough. They should sell litter boxes specifically for kittens at any pet store. Also, the best litter to use for these widdle ones is clay litter. Do not use any kind of scoopable litter or Crystal at all, as kittens have a tendency to eat some of the litter and it is not good for their system.
It can cause some serious health problems for them.

Also, here are some pictures to show you how to tell a female from a male.

[dab_20]

Thanks. And thank you rg_girlca for answering that question!

[Jessika]

Like others have already stated, I have ALWAYS handled the kittens from day one. Maybe not a lot, and definitely watch mom's body language. Maybe do it in a quiet, closed room, don't make sudden movements, etc.

Also remember if mom gets too stressed she may move the kittens, so keep them somewhere where there is not a lot of traffic, and closed off to other animals.

Make sure to wash your hands before handling them though so they don't get sick