Vet Approved Guide: How to Properly Pick Up a Puppy or Kitten in 2025 🐶🐱

By Dr. Duncan Houston BVSc

Bringing a new puppy or kitten into your home is an exciting experience. 🏡 However, these young animals are delicate and require gentle handling to ensure their safety and comfort. Let's explore veterinarian-approved techniques for properly picking up your puppy or kitten in 2025. 🛡️

🔍 Understanding the Importance of Proper Handling

Improper handling can lead to physical injuries and behavioral issues. It's crucial to support your pet's body adequately and avoid causing stress or discomfort. Proper handling helps build trust and strengthens the bond between you and your pet. 🤝

🐶 How to Pick Up a Puppy

Follow these steps to safely pick up your puppy:

Approach Calmly: Speak softly and let your puppy see and sniff you before attempting to pick them up.
Support the Chest and Hindquarters: Place one hand under the puppy's chest, just behind the front legs, and the other hand under the hindquarters.
Lift Gently: Lift the puppy smoothly, keeping their spine straight and supporting their entire body.
Hold Securely: Hold the puppy close to your chest to provide a sense of security.

Note: Avoid picking up your puppy by the front legs, armpits, collar, or tail, as this can cause injury.

🐱 How to Pick Up a Kitten

Follow these steps to safely pick up your kitten:

Approach Calmly: Let your kitten see and sniff you before attempting to pick them up.
Support the Chest and Hindquarters: Place one hand under the kitten's chest, just behind the front legs, and the other hand under the hindquarters.
Lift Gently: Lift the kitten smoothly, keeping their spine straight and supporting their entire body.
Hold Securely: Hold the kitten close to your chest to provide a sense of security.

Note: Avoid picking up your kitten by the scruff, legs, or tail, as this can cause injury.

👶 Teaching Children to Handle Pets Safely

Children should be taught how to handle pets gently and under adult supervision:

Supervise Interactions: Always supervise children when they are handling pets.
Teach Proper Techniques: Demonstrate and guide children on how to pick up and hold pets safely.
Encourage Sitting: Have children sit on the floor while holding pets to prevent accidental drops.

⚠️ Signs of Discomfort in Puppies and Kittens

Be attentive to signs that your pet is uncomfortable:

Vocalizations: Whining, growling, or hissing.
Struggling: Attempting to escape or squirming excessively.
Body Language: Tense muscles, flattened ears, or tucked tail.

If your pet shows any of these signs, gently place them back down and give them space.

📱 Enhance Your Pet's Comfort with These Tools

Consider leveraging these resources to support your pet's comfort and safety:

Ask A Vet: Access 24/7 veterinary advice for any concerns regarding your pet's health or behavior. 🩺

🎯 Final Thoughts

Properly picking up your puppy or kitten is essential for their safety and well-being. By following these veterinarian-approved techniques, you can ensure a positive experience for both you and your pet. 🐾

For personalized advice and support, download the Ask A Vet app today. 📲🐶🐱