WynterWynd Russian Blues: Welcome Home Guide

Congratulations on your decision to welcome a WynterWynd Russian Blue kitten into your family! This guide is designed to ensure a smooth, joyful transition for both you and your new companion. Please read through carefully—it contains essential information for your kitten’s first days and beyond.

Before Your Kitten Arrives: The Essential Checklist

1. Safe Space Preparation

Create a quiet, secure “starter room” (like a bedroom or bathroom) where your kitten can adjust for the first few days. This should include:

• A comfortable bed or blanket

• Food and water bowls (stainless steel or ceramic recommended)

• A litter box placed away from food/water

• A few safe toys

• Scratching post

2. Essential Supplies

• High-Quality Food: We use kitten formula. We’ll provide a 3-day supply. Please transition food gradually over 7-10 days if changing.

• Litter: We use in a low-sided box. Stick with this initially to avoid confusion.

• Grooming Supplies: A fine-toothed metal comb and soft brush for their double coat.

• Safety Items: Kitten-proof your home—secure cords, remove toxic plants, and block small spaces.

3. Veterinary Care

Your kitten comes with:

• First veterinary examination

• Age-appropriate vaccinations

• Deworming treatment

• Health guarantee documentation

Schedule a wellness check with your chosen veterinarian within 72 hours of arrival. This is required to keep our health guarantee valid. Bring all provided medical records.

Day One: The Arrival

The Journey Home

Your kitten will travel with:

• A comfort blanket with familiar scents

• Travel food and water

• Health records and registration papers

• Sample of current food

First Hours Home

1. Go directly to their prepared room and open the carrier gently.

2. Let them explore at their own pace. Don’t force interaction.

3. Show them the location of litter box, food, and water.

4. Offer a small amount of food and fresh water.

5. Allow quiet time—limit visitors and excitement today.

Common First-Day Behaviors

• Hiding is normal

• Possible temporary appetite decrease

• Vocalization or quiet observation

Be patient. It may take 24-48 hours for your kitten to feel secure enough to explore beyond their safe room.

Week One: Building Trust & Routine

Feeding Schedule

• 8-12 weeks: 4 small meals daily

• 3-6 months: 3 meals daily

• 6+ months: 2 meals daily

Always provide fresh water. Monitor eating habits—Russian Blues can be particular about food freshness.

Litter Training

Your kitten is already litter trained. If accidents occur:

• Ensure the box is clean (scoop 1-2 times daily)

• Verify the box is easily accessible

• Avoid scolding—simply place them in the box after accidents

Socialization & Handling

• Daily gentle handling: Pet, hold, and groom for short periods

• Introduce household sounds gradually: TV, appliances, voices

• Begin nail trimming with kitten-specific clippers

• Introduce family members one at a time

Introducing Other Pets

Wait 5-7 days before introductions. Always supervise initial meetings. Keep interactions short and positive. Never leave pets unsupervised until fully comfortable (usually 2-4 weeks).

Essential Russian Blue Care Guidelines

Grooming Routine

• Brushing: 2-3 times weekly with a fine comb

• Bathing: Rarely needed—only if visibly soiled

• Nail trimming: Every 2-3 weeks

• Ear cleaning: Check weekly, clean as needed

• Dental care: Begin brushing early with kitten toothpaste

Health Monitoring

Watch for these normal Russian Blue traits:

• Bright green eyes developing by 4 months

• Silver-tipped double coat

• Moderate activity with playful bursts

Contact your vet immediately if you notice:

• Loss of appetite for 24+ hours

• Lethargy or hiding

• Respiratory issues

• Digestive problems lasting more than 24 hours

Behavior & Enrichment

Russian Blues are intelligent and need:

• Daily interactive play (10-15 minutes, 2-3 times daily)

• Puzzle feeders or treat-dispensing toys

• Vertical space—cat trees or shelves

• Quiet retreats for when they need alone time

Long-Term Care & Development

Growth Milestones

• 3-6 months: Rapid growth, baby teeth replaced

• 6-12 months: Reaching adult size, personality solidifies

• 12-24 months: Full maturity, coat develops final color

Nutrition Transition

• Maintain high-quality protein diet

• Avoid overfeeding—Russian Blues can gain weight easily

• Consult your vet for dietary recommendations at each life stage

Veterinary Schedule

• Annual wellness exams

• Vaccine boosters as recommended

• Regular parasite prevention

• Annual blood work starting at age 7

Our Commitment to You

Health Guarantee Details

Your kitten is covered by our health guarantee for [number] days against life-threatening genetic conditions. This requires:

1. Veterinary exam within 72 hours of arrival

2. Proper care as outlined in this guide

3. Immediate notification of any concerns

Lifetime Support

We’re here for you! Contact us for:

• Behavior questions

• Dietary advice

• General care concerns

• Rehoming assistance if ever needed (we require first right of refusal)

Important Documents Checklist

• Signed sales agreement

• TICA registration application

• Veterinary health records

• Pedigree certificate

• Health guarantee

• Microchip registration (if applicable)

Final Notes

Your Russian Blue is more than a pet—they’re a sensitive, intelligent family member who will form deep bonds with you. With patience, consistency, and love, you’ll develop a relationship that lasts a lifetime.

Welcome to the WynterWynd family! We’re honored you’ve chosen us and are always here to support you and your beautiful Russian Blue.

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Need Immediate Assistance?
Contact us at info@wynterwynds.com for urgent questions about your kitten’s transition.

Follow Our Community:
Share your kitten’s journey with us on social media using #WynterWyndRussianBlue

Next Steps:

1. Schedule your vet appointment

2. Register your microchip (if applicable)

3. Complete TICA registration

4. Share photos with us—we love updates!