Kittens and Children

What You Need to Know Before They Become the Dynamic Duo

From mischief in the goldfish bowl to lazy summer days spent snuggling on their favorite spot, kids and kittens have always seemed to be drawn to each other like mud puddles and new shoes. However, if you are considering a fuzzy friend for your favorite little someone, there are a few things to keep in mind before you bring home your new pet. From health concerns to mommy mishaps, read on to discover everything you need to know about your soon to be dynamic duo before they pounce through the halls of your home together.

Does My Child Have Allergies or Asthma?

"What's New, Pussycat?" That's the question every parent needs to ask their family doctor before bringing home any furry friend. If you suspect that your child has new onset allergies your pediatrician can conduct an allergy panel on your little one to determine his or her triggers. The test is relatively painless and can save you a world of sneezes and wheezes.

And don't worry. If your child does have allergies or asthma, often times a doctor will not dismiss the idea of a pet; he will simply give you the right preventives to make living with your new pet both fun and healthy for your child.

* Healthy Hint: Did you know that children raised with an indoor pet are less likely to suffer from severe asthma and allergies? This is because the exposure to triggers builds up the body's immunity to allergens.

What Responsibility Level Does My Child Have?

Before you bring a pet into the home it's important to consider your child's responsibility level so that neither of you become overwhelmed. It's reasonable to believe that a school aged child can help in daily responsibilities such as feeding, watering and brushing the new addition to your family. However, cleaning the litter box is a better left to you or an older child such as your tween or teen. The litter box is known to carry the intestinal parasite Toxoplasma thus little ones who are notorious for skipping the soap are best kept away from this area of kitty's habitat.

Where Will Kitty Sleep?

When a new pet is introduced into the home, children often have fantastical ideals of how their new life with their new friend will be. Deciding where your new pet will sleep can help avoid those first night melt downs that all too often end in tears and the insistent begging that kitty sleep in their bed. If you don't like the idea of your child sharing a bed with your new pet but your child is still set on the idea, let your child help make kitty's sleeping space extra personal and stylish. Have them draw pretty pictures to grace the wall beside kitty's bed. Let them choose an old blanket as kitty's stylish new comforter. You can even get as creative as letting your child create a "TV." from a cardboard box. The younger set will especially appreciate this.

* Helpful Hint: Still having trouble getting your child to agree to the sleeping arrangements? Ask them to read kitty a bedtime story in its own little space each night. This will give them a sense of accomplishment and allow them to still have some nighttime downtime with kitty.

Which Kitty is Right for Us?

When choosing any family pet, you should always go into the search with a "forever pet" mentality. If your family is energetic, a young kitten would be perfect for you. They love to play and could keep up with even your busiest tot. If you are a more relaxed family, or an overly stressed family, an older cat might be best. This is especially true if you are a mother with a lot on her plate. In this case, an already litter trained feline is the way to go. Remember, having a pet is supposed to be enjoyable and while it does come with new found responsibilities, it should never come with new found stress.

When in doubt, though it may sound cliche, let your pet choose you. Long-lasting, life-long pets are born on "love at first sight."

While there is a lot to be considered when bringing home a new pet, one thing remains certain ... kids and kittens belong together and that's a no brainer. As in any new found situation, there is bound to be an adjusting period but with a little patience and a lot of love those little paws will work their way not only into your child's heart ... but also into your own.

David Beart is the owner of the PetYak. Our site covers pet related issues such as how long do cats live [http://www.petyak.com/cats/health/how-long-do-cats-live.aspx], dog training, birds and fish.