Frequently Asked Questions
Feeding Your Kitten 101.
Your kitten has been exclusively fed a balanced raw diet since four weeks of age. The recipe is included in your information packet. While feeding raw is beneficial, it is a commitment and not required.
A few days' worth of their current food will be provided to help transition them to the food of your choice. Dry food contains indigestible carbohydrates, so wet food is recommended at least three times daily. Tiki brand wet food is a great option, or any wet food free of fillers, fruits, and vegetables. Cats require only meat and bone in their diet. You can offer occasional raw snacks like liver, heart, or chicken gizzards.
What Are The Correct Feeding Amounts For Maine Coon Kittens?
Kittens should have unlimited access to food until they reach one year old. Offer at least 1/2 cup of food three times daily. If they finish quickly and still seem hungry, provide more. At our home, food is always available.
Between 14 weeks and six months, kittens go through a major growth spurt and will eat more. Ensure they get enough food to support their growth.
Do You Have Any Litter Box Recommendations?
Your kitten is accustomed to ceramic pellets. Young kittens may try to eat clumping clay litter, so we suggest using unscented litter. Strong artificial scents can deter them from using the litter box.
They are used to both covered and uncovered litter boxes. Keep your kitten in a smaller area, such as a bedroom, for the first couple of days so they can adjust. Allowing too much space too soon may lead to inconsistent litter box use.
Should I Get Cat Trees & Scratchers?
Providing cat trees or scratchers in every major room prevents kittens from scratching furniture. If they don’t have an appropriate scratching surface, they may use furniture or carpet instead.
A sturdy, well-built cat tree is recommended. Smaller trees may be outgrown quickly. We recommend CatTreeKing.com for durable options.
What Is The Vaccination Schedule?
Your kitten has received two core vaccinations against:
- Feline Panleukopenia (Distemper)
- Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis (FVR)
- Feline Calicivirus (FCV)
You and your vet can decide on a third dose, though we do not administer one ourselves. Research how over-vaccination impacts the immune system before proceeding.
If vaccinating for Leukemia or Rabies, wait until the kitten is at least six months old and avoid vaccinating during stressful events like spay/neuter surgery.
When Should I consider Spaying & Neutering?
Kittens should be spayed or neutered between five and six months of age.
Do you Recommend Microchipping?
Your kitten has not been microchipped. The procedure uses a large needle, so we recommend doing this during their spay/neuter surgery to minimize discomfort.
Is Flea Prevention Important?
We do not use any flee control products! Due to their raw diet, our kittens are less susceptible to fleas. If needed, we recommend using Revolution (not Revolution Plus, as some cats have experienced seizures from it).
Are Air Fresheners & Essential Oils Safe To Use?
Many air fresheners are toxic to cats, especially plug-ins. Research before using any air fresheners or essential oils in your home.
How Do I Groom My kitten?
A slicker brush and comb work best for grooming. Here is a set we recommend: Brush Set.
For mats, use beard trimmers or pet clippers instead of scissors to avoid accidentally cutting the skin. Recommended clippers: Pet Clippers.
What toi know About Kitten Teething & Bad Breath!
Kittens lose baby teeth between three months and one year, which can cause swollen gums and bad breath. Providing raw chicken gizzards, hearts, or wings to chew on helps with teething and overall health.
Some vets may be overly cautious about sore gums in teething kittens. Their discomfort will resolve as adult teeth come in, so avoid unnecessary procedures like extractions or cleanings.