Spreading the joy!

Giving away kittens is an emotional event for both pet parents, kittens and mother cat. It is necessary to make this easier and less stressful for the kittens. Here are a few tips for making it easier for all.

Purrfecting kittens before adoption

• The right age: The kittens should be at least eight weeks before they leave home. Ideally, the kittens should be with their mother for 12 weeks to learn social and behavioural skills.


• Weaned before adoption: The kittens should be properly weaned and able to eat on their own.


• House-trained: Litter-box training is a must. This makes it easier for the kittens in their new home and avoid unpleasant accidents.


• Health chart: The kittens should be dewormed and vaccinated. The new pet parents should be advised on proper kitten care.

Know the pet parents before adoption

• Screen the pet parents: While talking to prospective pet parents, it is necessary to screen them. Ask them about their previous experiences with pets, their home, family members and lifestyle. If you are comfortable, invite them to visit the kittens. If you are not comfortable, please say that you don’t think it is a proper fit and politely say ‘no’. You can also visit the home of the prospective pet parents before giving away the kitten.

Making pet parents and kitten meeting a pleasure

• Don’t stress the kittens: Place all kittens comfortably in a basket for showing it to prospective pet parents. It is stressful for the kittens if they have to be chased around a room while people are waiting to see them.

Purrfect adoption

• Two is better than one: Giving away kittens in pairs is recommended. Kittens are very playful and need company for their healthy development.


• The adoption day: Feed the kittens at least two hours before they leave home. It gives them the chance to use the litter box also. This way, the kittens can settle down more comfortably in their new home.


• Giving away: Tell the prospective pet parents what food the kittens prefer and their daily routine. Always give away the kittens in a secure animal carrier. Place your kitten’s favourite toys and treats in the carrier.


• Avoiding unwanted litters: Giving away a kitten to a good and loving home brings great joy to all concerned. Please advise the new pet parents on spaying/neutering to avoid unwanted litter.


• Responsible pet parenting: Always assure the pet parents that you will take back the kittens in case of any problem. You can always find another pet parent.

(Sudhersena is volunteer at the Blue Cross since 1998 and an avid animal lover, owns nine cats and three dogs. She is associated with a number of animal welfare campaigns and programmes.)

Purring joy…

What would you do if you find an injured cat on the street? Probably you would feel sorry for the cat and wish she gets well. Would you try and take the cat to safety?

One evening, I was taking a walk with one of my friends when suddenly a streak of black ran near our legs. I looked down to see a really thin cat looking up at me and mewing. Before I could think how to reach, the cat started rubbing herself against my legs and purring. I, very cautiously, started petting her and she started purring even more. I picked her up against my friend’s warning that cats can be very dangerous. I took her to the park and sat down on the grass next to her. She climbed onto my lap and I could feel that she felt secure.

Since I have two dogs at home, I was little apprehensive and called my mother outside. My mother also instantly liked the cat. She brought her some milk to drink, which she lapped away hungrily. It was then that I discovered that she was hurt on her hind leg. We took her to the vet, who treated her wounds and gave her an injection. We told him that the kitty couldn’t be left in the streets because we were sure she won’t survive and we couldn’t keep her in the house because we have dogs.

We decided to get one of our dogs and see the kitty’s reaction. But when we got my dog out (I was holding her by collar so that she wouldn’t frighten the kitty too much), the kitty started hissing and struggling to get out of my mother’s arms. The plan failed, but we knew that we couldn’t just leave the kitty on the streets because she looked like a domesticated cat who was abandoned. Since we could not risk the life of this kitty, we decided to leave her at an animal shelter, where she would be cared and may even find a good, loving home. We found a good animal shelter and left our kitty in caring hands.

I only spent three and a half hours with the cat but I feel I have developed a strong bond with her. When I grow up, I would love to work at an animal shelter and spread awareness about animals. I also request all pet parents never to abandon their pets as this is extremely cruel to them. That kitty was lucky to be rescued and sheltered …let’s all make this world a better place for all!