About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is begging for a kitten, or when you are preparing to bring a new feline family member home. It serves as a gentle introduction to the responsibilities of pet ownership, shifting the focus from 'having a toy' to 'caring for a living creature.' Through simple text and clear photography, it helps children understand that cats have specific needs and unique ways of communicating their feelings. Designed for the early elementary years, this guide builds confidence by explaining cat behavior and basic care requirements like grooming and feeding. It fosters a sense of empathy and kindness by teaching children how to respect an animal's boundaries. It is an ideal choice for parents who want to instill a sense of gentle stewardship and hygiene in their young animal lovers.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
The book is secular and direct. It does not cover difficult topics like illness or the death of a pet, focusing instead on the positive aspects of healthy pet maintenance.
Ideal Reader
A 6-year-old who is nervous about a new pet and needs to feel 'in charge' of the facts, or a child who struggles with being too rough and needs to learn the 'why' behind gentle touch.
Parent Prep
This book can be read cold. Parents might want to prepare to answer 'Can we get one?' if they don't already have a cat. A parent might see their child chasing a neighborhood cat or pulling a pet's tail and realize the child lacks an understanding of animal boundaries.
