#Middlebury #Cat #Goldfish
DEAR PAW’S CORNER: My daughter received a goldfish for her last birthday, and true to her word, she has kept the fish healthy and happy. Now, for her 9th birthday, she wants a kitten. I feel that she’s old enough to care for a cat, but am worried that the cat will stress her goldfish. What are your thoughts? – Judy G., Seattle
DEAR JUDY: As a parent, your instincts are important and this one is worth thinking about. Cats are fascinated with fish tanks and can often be found watching the fish inside with rapt attention – if not actively trying to get a paw into the water.
Discuss your concerns with your daughter. At age 9, she’s old enough to consider this problem as well. Is there a way for her goldfish to remain healthy and stress-free while bringing a kitten into your home? There are strategies for doing this successfully, including training that diverts a cat’s attention from the tank and placing the tank out of sight or reach of the cat.
Caring for pets is a way to help children develop empathy for all living things. It can help them learn about responsibility, too – but only when parents are actively involved in the process. You’re doing a great job of helping your daughter understand the importance of caring for pets of all kinds.
Having second thoughts about bringing another pet into the house is exactly the kind of thinking parents should do. But you also have the opportunity to guide your daughter and have her be part of the decision as to whether a kitten is a good idea at this point, or whether she should wait another year.
Send your comments, questions or tips to ask@pawscorner.com.
© 2021 King Features Synd. Inc.
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