Looking After a Cat

Part One · A new cat

On the first day, Maple the cat hides under Leo's bed. Leo lies on the floor and peeks at her two green eyes shining in the dark. Mom says, "Cats who feel worried may hide, so let her be." Leo sits quietly nearby, and Maple has a safe, comfortable place to rest while she gets used to her new home.

Maple needs fresh, clean water at all times. Every day, Leo and Mom wash her bowl and fill it again. Leo wonders if milk would be better. Mom says no, because cow's milk is not a good swap for water. Maple only gets clean water in her bowl.

Maple eats food made for cats. Cats need meat in their food, and a vet can help Mom decide what is best for Maple. Mom feeds her a few small meals each day. Leo does not share his snacks, because some of our food, like onions, is poison for cats.

Part Two · Every day

Maple has a litter box in a quiet spot. Cats will not use a box that is messy and smelly, so every day Mom scoops it out. Leo does not touch it. Afterward, Mom washes her hands with soap, and Leo washes his hands after he pets Maple.

Maple scratches the tall post by the window. Cats need to scratch. It keeps their claws sharp and their muscles strong, and it is also how they mark things as their own. A good post is sturdy and at least three feet tall. Maple scratches the post and leaves the sofa alone.

Maple sleeps a lot. Cats sleep for many hours each day. But when she wakes up, she wants to play. Leo wiggles a toy on a string, and Maple jumps and pounces. Playing helps a cat to run and have fun, and Leo loves it, too.

Part Three · Gentle and watchful

Leo wants to hold Maple, but Mom says to let her choose. She sniffs his hand carefully, and then she steps a little closer. When Mom picks her up, she puts one hand behind her front legs and one hand under her back end. She never lifts Maple by the neck. A grown-up is always nearby.

Leo has learned to read Maple's tail. When her tail points up with a little curve at the tip, she feels calm. When her tail is tucked tight against her body, she feels worried. Then Leo gives her room, and he does not try to pick her up.

One day Maple does not want her food. Leo tells Mom right away. Mom watches Maple and calls the vet. A vet knows what to do, and a cat should see the vet at least once a year, even when she seems well. Leo never gives a cat medicine.

Leo has jobs now. He helps with the water, plays with Maple, and washes his hands. Mom does the rest, and a grown-up decides about getting a cat. At bedtime, Maple jumps up beside him and settles in, warm and purring. Ask a grown-up to look at Peabody Pets with you. You will find it at pet.peabody.kids.