Think of the word 'socialisation' not as in 'socialising with other animals' or 'being social'; think of it instead as 'socialising with all of the parts of life with which I need to be able to cope'. Being able to cope with everyday stimuli without a fear response is the crux of what 'socialisation' is.

Using evidence-based methods, we gradually expose our kittens to stimuli in a sequential and thought-out way. This method slowly builds confidence in our kittens, helps prevent fear-based behaviours from occurring when they are adults, and helps to ensure they are well-adapted and ready by the time they go to their homes.

Between two and seven weeks of age, kittens go through a critical sensitive period where they are particularly primed to accept and explore novel stimuli. Sometimes called the 'golden window', this is when kittens naturally learn what is safe and normal.

From two - three weeks of age, the kittens are moved from our room out into the lounge room. This is so they are able to start experiencing all of the sights, sounds, and smells of a busy household.

During the Primary Socialisation Window we focus on:

• short intervals of handling

• everyday sounds (once the kittens have been in the lounge room for a few days, we don't hold back on any of the sounds: vacuum cleaners, the kitchen blender, loud disputes between the children over a stuffed toy, and so on)touch desensitisation (gentle touching of feet, tails, ears, bellies, etc.)

• lap sleeping

• encouraging the beginnings of play (introduction of novel toys to explore, both with litter-mates and with humans)

• short visits to other rooms of the house to explore new stimuli

• short crate training sessions with high rewards

• short trips in the car

• soft introduction to our pet dog

Our two children are allowed to sit and hold the kittens (under supervision) once they are three weeks or older so the kittens can start getting used to kids.

When the kittens reach five weeks old, we begin crate training. This involves pairing a previously neutral stimulus (the crate) with a reinforcer (in this case, a high value food item). In this way, the kittens come to love the crate while still young which will make future car trips much easier and more enjoyable.

Cats and Young Kids: How do we set up mutually respectful relationships?

Ensuring your cat/s and young kid/s have a good relationship relies on you, the adult, setting them up for success. Remember, ALL interactions are reinforcing, one way or another. This means that every single interaction leads your cat further down the path of either "these half humans are kind of cool and fun", or "these small demons are out to get me and I am certainly going to get poked in the ear or have my tail pulled if they come close".

How do we manage these interactions in our home, with small children? In our home, we do the following....

1. Interactions are always supervised:

When children are very small, this is so important and it is for the safety of the cat as much as the child.

2. We teach our children about animal behaviour:

Flight zones, acceptable touch, behavioural cues etc. are explained in age-appropriate language.

3. Hands are for pats but not for play:

Hands are never on offer when a cat is in a frisky, playful mood. Cat toys and props are used instead so the cat never learns to associate hands with play behaviours. Hands can be used for calm interactions like patting and cuddles.

4. Non-verbal communication is key:

We explain to the kids that as animals cannot speak, they will communicate in the only way they know how; with their bodies. If the cat is moving away, that means she is speaking to you with her body. With time and guidance, the child slowly learns to listen.

4. Respect goes both ways:

In the same way that the child must learn to respect the animal's boundaries, the cat too must learn what is and is not acceptable behaviour. This is easiest to do when you start with a small kitten and remain consistent in your approach. Beware that what looks like playful, fun nibbling in a cute, 12 week-old kitten, can easily become a fully grown (and somewhat powerful) Maine Coon that doesn't understand why chewing on hands is no longer part of the game.

5. Interactions that are not respectful are terminated before they escalate:

This one speaks for itself. Remember that all interactions are reinforcing, one way or another. End the play by leaving the room and both parties will quickly learn.

Remember: all interactions are reinforcing in one way or another. Consistency is KEY.

By following these simple guidelines, you will set yourself on the path for success so your kids and cats can coexist peacefully with mutual respect and boundaries.