Keeping your kitten safe and sound throughout the year
The changing seasons bring new adventures for your kitten, but also certain hazards. Follow the steps below, and she'll be able to enjoy the highlights of your calendar as much as you do.
Making Christmas merry for everyone
Follow these tips to keep your kitten safe and sound over Christmas.
Your Christmas tree will be very interesting to your kitten! Make sure it's well anchored so she can't knock it down
Baubles and decorations can be a major hazard. Try to use ones that are unbreakable and not too small.
Don't hang chocolate items from your Christmas tree - this is just too tempting to your kitten. Remember chocolate is very bad for her.
Holly, mistletoe and yew are poisonous.
Christmas crackers, party poppers and champagne bottles all go off with loud bangs which may frighten your kitten.
Tasty Tips
Keeping Summer cool for cats
Ever noticed how much your kitten loves warmth? How she always seems to find the sunniest, cosiest spot to snooze in? Follow these simple tips to keep her safe throughout a long, hot Summer.
Cats are not renowned for being 'sensible' about the sun. Your kitten will probably make a beeline for the sunniest spot in your garden on a summer's day and you need to make sure she doesn't get heatstroke. Try to encourage her to go into the shade during the hottest part of the day.
Greenhouses can be a real danger to your kitten. She may go in there to enjoy the warmth and then get trapped inside if the door shuts behind her.
It isn't just people who get sunburn. If your kitten is white or has a pale nose or ears, she may need sunblock. Get some advice from your vet.
It's not everyone who loves fireworks
You may think that fireworks are great…. but your kitten is likely to hate them. Here's how to make your celebrations safe and bearable for her.
Even if you normally allow your kitten outside, firework night is one time she should definitely be kept safely in the house.
The noise of the fireworks can be terrifying for your kitten. Keep her as far from it as possible. It's a good idea to leave the radio or TV on to distract her.
Close the curtains. Your kitten does not want to see the fireworks!
Watch out for lilies
Lilies can be lethal to cats. All parts of the plant are poisonous to them. In fact, a cat doesn't even have to eat any to be affected. If they brush past a lily and then the pollen is groomed from their fur, this can still be dangerous. Your kitten could suffer blindness, vomiting, renal failure, paralysis and may even die. If you suspect your kitten is affected, take her straight to the vet.
Really you should try to avoid having lilies in your home. But if you do use them in flower arranging, place the flowers well out of reach of your kitten. Make sure that any loose pollen or discarded leaves are safely cleaned up, and wash your hands thoroughly before handling your kitten.
Related products
Kitten Food
Hill's Science Plan Sterilised Kitten Cat Food with Salmon is specially formulated with ActivBiome+ Multi-Benefit Technology. This food is carefully formulated for the developmental needs of kittens, so they get the best start in life & grow to their full potential.
Kitten & Mother Tender Mousse Cat Food
Hill's Science Plan Kitten & Mother Tender Mousse Cat Food with Chicken & Turkey is a complete premium pet food for kittens from weaning until 1 year old and for pregnant and nursing cats. Formulated with chicken, turkey and other specially selected ingredients to support gut health and optimal growth. It comes in a soft mousse texture they'll love.
Hypoallergenic Dry Cat Food
HILL'S SCIENCE PLAN Hypoallergenic Adult cat food with egg & insect protein is a complete pet food for adult cat 1–6 years old. It's formulated for cats with delicate skin and stomach, with limited high quality novel protein sources & no grain.
Kitten Food
Hill's Science Plan Sterilised Kitten Cat Food with Chicken is specially formulated with ActivBiome+ Multi-Benefit Technology. This food is carefully formulated for the developmental needs of kittens, so they get the best start in life & grow to their full potential.
Related articles
How To Tell If Your Cat Has A Skin Condition
Learn how to spot the signs of a skin condition in your cat and the steps to take for their wellbeing. For comprehensive care advice, visit Hill's Pet.
Free of hairballs
While hairballs are a common occurrence of cats, there are steps you can take to help them manage their problem and keep them healthy.
Your Overweigth Cat: When Bigger Isn't Better
Learn the different factors that might be contributing to your cat's weight gain, and how bigger doesn't always mean better.
Cat Weight Management
South African vets say more than half the patients they see are overweight. Learn more about managing your cat’s weight.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.