Owning a kitten or a cat is a great opportunity to teach your child to love and respect animals! Of course, you can teach your child to love any animal -- a dog, bird or fish -- but a cat can be a special opportunity for a young child!

In fact, the view your child has of her own children when she grows up will be *strongly* influenced by what you teach -- and show -- her concerning her new cat.

Begin by telling her about the vaccinations her new kitty will need and *why* she needs them If you are unclear yourself about your new cat's medical needs, my new book "Your New Cat's First 24 Hours", www.yourcatsecrets.com talks about it in detail, or you can check with your local veterinarian.

Then you can tell her about your new kitty's needs: her food bowl, cat scratching post, litter box, toys, and bed. In fact you can take your child shopping with you -- either down at the local pet store or online.

Once you have purchased everything you need, you are now ready to go get your new kitty. Take your child to the animal shelter or pet store, and let her play with a few of the animals. Remember, though, that if the kitty is to be your child's cat --and not yours -- make sure you choose the animal your child bonds with, not another one for other reasons.

When you bring your new cat home, be sure to closely supervise your child while she plays with her new kitty. Make sure she is not too rough. Teach her to be gentle by *showing* her what that means.

Help your child feed her and when it comes time to scoop out the (you know what) from the litter box, make sure your child is involved.

If you spend time with your child in each aspect of cat ownership, she will develop love, respect and responsibility that will last her entire life!

John Young, www.yourcatsecrets.com, All Rights Reserved