Nothing has more ‘awww’ factor than a litter of pups or kittens. With their big eyes, playful games, and tiny tails few can resist picking one up for a cuddle.

Although they are endlessly cute, there are some points to consider before you pick up your new friend.

Puppies

It’s important to think about how large a pup will get when he’s fully grown. Choose a breed that suits your lifestyle. Small dogs don’t necessarily need less exercise than larger dogs, so read up on the breed traits before you choose.

Bedding:
Puppy safe bedding is important. Pups love to chew, so their beds need to be made from safe material.

Collar: They will need a puppy collar that doesn’t slip off and a suitable lead when you venture outside.

Puppy Food: Talk to your breeder or pop into our shop for advice about good quality puppy food. Make sure you don’t over-feed them, especially when it comes to treats – overweight pets have a host of expensive medical issues!

Parasite Control: Puppy specific flea, tick and worm control is a must. Don’t use leftover dog treatments as the chemicals are too strong for pups.

Vaccinations: It’s best not to take your pup outside until their vaccinations are complete.


Kittens

Thoroughly naughty in every way, kittens are great fun to be around because they think they are fearless lions on the Serengeti plains. Here are some considerations for young Tiddles:

Bedding: Put cosy bedding in a place that’s accessible to your kitten, but away from children and other pets.

Kitten Food: It’s best to continue with your kitten’s current diet to avoid an upset tummy. Change it gradually if you want to feed them something different.
Kittens can’t tolerate cow’s milk, so try specific kitten milk instead, although once weaned from mum they don’t need it as part of their diet.

Parasite Control: Flea, tick, and worm control is very important. If a kitten is overrun with fleas she may become anaemic and need urgent vet treatment.

Neutering: A female kitten can breed from the age of 4 months. Unless you want three litters of kittens every year get a neutering appointment booked! Some people are caught out by assuming brothers and sister kittens won’t mate – they will! 

 

Rescue Pups and Kittens

There are many puppies and kittens in rescue care. It’s worth considering a second hand pet as many are homeless through no fault of their own. Beware private advertisements online because they may be farms that unscrupulously breed for profit.

 

Overall, enjoy your bundle of fluff! They grow and learn rapidly, so set training and rules in place from the first night home. You might even succeed with a puppy!