Has your youngster been begging for a cat? This can be a hard decision to make. Our feline pals definitely enrich our lives with their affectionate cuddles, entertaining antics, and silly quirks. However, they do need a lot of care. Fluffy can also be, well, a bit cantankerous. Here, an Aurora, CO vet offers a few thoughts on having both kids and kitties.
Benefits
Kitties are wonderful pets. They can actually be quite beneficial for kids. Fluffy can definitely entertain her young humans, and is often quite willing to provide cuddles and purrs on demand. Those affectionate snuggles are great for children. We all know that purring cats are a huge comfort on bad days. Our feline buddies can also teach children about friendship and love, which helps them become kind and empathetic. There are some physical benefits as well. Kids that grow up with pets often have stronger immunity systems and fewer allergies than those who don’t.
Things To Consider
Is your child begging for a cat? Be sure that you are willing and able to take over Fluffy’s care if needed. Kids, unfortunately, sometimes beg for pets, then lose interest in caring for them. Kitties may be cute and cuddly, but they aren’t toys. They need TLC to thrive! Also, make sure that your children know to treat our feline friends gently and with respect. They’ll be rewarded with years of love, cuddles, and purrs. The bond we form with our pets is very special, and can even be life-changing!
Ground Rules
Teaching children the do’s and don’ts of interacting with cats is very important, even if you don’t have a furball. Make sure the kids understand basic kitty communication and body language. For instance, if Fluffy is flattening her ears and lashing her tail, she is definitely not feeling cuddly. Kids often really enjoy playing with kitties, or giving them treats. This is fine, but pay close attention. Children may not understand what toys and foods are and aren’t safe for cats. Keep in mind that koung kids sometimes frighten kitties, by moving quickly and/or making loud noises. They also can be, well, a bit clumsy. We strongly recommend supervising all interactions. You don’t want your youngster learning the hard way that Fluffy hates having her tail pulled!
Please contact us, your Aurora, CO vet clinic, anytime. We’re dedicated to offering great veterinary care!
