Adopting a blind kitten
If you're considering fostering or adopting a blind kitten, be assured that they can and do live happy, healthy lives. Blind kittens are every bit as playful, curious, rambunctious, loving, and cuddly as any other kitten—but there are things we can do to ensure that they are safe and thriving in our care.
Where does the eye damage come from?
Conjunctivitis is a common condition in Egypt, affecting many cats and often leading to them losing their sight. The inflammation of the tissues around the eye, including the eyelids and the third eyelid, can cause severe discomfort and, if left untreated, can result in permanent damage to the eyes. Unfortunately, due to limited access to veterinary care in some areas, this condition often goes untreated, leading to significant vision loss for many cats.
How to make it your kitten as comfortable as possible?
Set up a safe space
Place a shallow litter box in the corner
Place a shallow litter box in the corner
Place food and water in an opposite corner
Give the kitten a soft bed or two
Choose safe enrichment items like ball chasers and ball tracks, low scratchers, and climbers or perches that are less than two feet in height.
Line the floor with large plush blankets or carpet pads, especially in areas where the kitten could fall from elevation higher than 6 inches
Help the kitten navigate the space
Introducing a blind kitten to their surroundings involves gentle guidance. Initially, place them in the litter box several times to help them establish its location. Place them in front of their water and guide them by running your finger through it to help them hear where it is. For food, place them in front of it and establish an auditory cue for mealtime, such as a special whistle or even just the sound of the can opening. Keep the placement of these important items consistent, and they’ll have no trouble finding their litter, food and water!
Supervise their exploration of the environment by placing them near or on objects, ensuring a gradual introduction to climbing as they grow.
Most importantly: keep the environment consistent, as changes may disorient them. You’ll find that the kitten will gradually master the space, and once they do, you can slowly introduce them to more areas with supervision.
Choose toys that make sounds
Blind kittens are just as playful as their sighted counterparts, and choosing the right toys enhances their experience. Opt for interactive toys with audible components, such as:
Wand toys with bells
Wand toys that crinkle
Crinkle balls
Rattle mice
When you engage in interactive play with a kitten who is blind, they can track the toy through hearing—and you’ll find they’re very capable little hunters! Like with any kitten, interactive playtime will promote their physical and mental well-being, and strengthen the bond between you and the kitten.
Choose toys that make sounds
Spending quality time together is important when fostering or adopting any kitten. When working with a blind kitten, you’ll want to spend lots of time laying or sitting on the floor with them, letting them climb you and offering gentle petting.
Communication is key, and you can teach them auditory cues such as rubbing your fingers together to signal where your hand is for pets. Notice what works best for the kitten, whether that’s vocal or hand cues, and teach them to understand where you are and when you’re offering them affection. Never scold the kitten if they bite—this is common for any kitten, but especially for a kitten who is navigating their world without sight.
Caring for blind kittens - Kitten Lady ; link