When is it okay to introduce my newborn kittens to the family environment?

[Cindy]

We have four new adorable kittens that are now 17 days old. They have been kept in a bedroom separate from the other family pets designated especially for them. We have two other cats - one male (not the father) and one female - as well as a dog that has been raised with cats since he was eight weeks old. The humans have been handling the kittens from day one and we have just begun taking them into the our bedroom and putting them all on the bed (with Mom cat) and letting them explore - they eyes are fully open and they are beginning to stand - they are all moving around really very well and are showing curiosity (too adorable for words). The mom cat wants to come out of their room several times a day now for about an hour at a time, which the vet said was normal and quite fine. I know the babies need to be vaccinated before we can introduce them to the other animals in the house, but how do we begin to integrate them into the family - how long do they need to be keep in their room? Should we put them back in their room when we are not home (this is after they are at least 8 weeks old) or will they be okay to leave out in the house once the other animals have accepted them? It seems dangerous to me, but I hate keeping them (and Mom cat) locked up all day in their room. Mom cat is a the most social of all the cats and likes being out with the family, but always willing goes back to her brood after an hour or so. I just want to do all of this correctly. How on earth do you ever let anyone take away these darling babies? I know I have to do it, but it is already killing me to think about it. I can see how people become "the crazy cat lady down the street". LOL Any help is greatly appreciated.

 

[Tizzy]

We have had cats for many years. As long as mother cat trusts you, we handle the kittens from "day one". Only thing, do not let young children pick them up or touch them unsupervised, and ensure the family have a quiet place away from noise an disturbance. If mothe cat decides to move her kittens, this is an indicator she is not happy.

We currently have 3 four week old kitten, all used to being handled from birth

As for letting them go, we ALWAYS charge money for kittens. This is not to make a profit, but to deter anyone taking one who is not committed to it. Always watch closely to see how the new owner handles them, and do not ne afraid to say, sorry, you cannot have on

Enjoy.

 

[Loving Mom]

ok first as for when to start letting them around your other pets you can do that now just dont leave then unattended with them untill there bigger. they do not need to be traped all day put them in a basket with a towel or blanket in it and keep it in the room your in, when you leave put them back in there room. when you start feeding them solid food you can start litter training them. there very quick at that age to teach to use the litter box. second part as for how you can manage to get rid of them when there 6 weeks old and running threw your house you will not find them as adorable when there playing all night or waking you up in the middle of the night to play. good luck