Milestones along the way
From Birth to Go-Home Day
A look at the care, milestones, and family life that shape each River Haze kitten.
Stage 01
Birth
Born in our home and cared for around the clock, including late-night feedings and daily weight checks. Mom and babies settle into a warm, quiet nesting area where we can keep a close eye on everyone.
Stage 02
Week 1–2
These first weeks are all about nursing, sleeping and staying snuggled with mom in a quiet, clean space. Eyes and ears are closed at birth, and just after the one-week mark the eyes begin to open (always blue at first!). We weigh every kitten daily to make sure everyone is gaining steadily.
Stage 03
Week 3–4
Ears open and the first wobbly steps begin. We start gentle daily handling so kittens get comfortable with human touch early. Litter training begins, along with first tastes of soft food. Waitlist families start receiving updates once kittens reach 4 weeks.
Stage 04
Week 5–7
Running, pouncing and wrestling with littermates. Kittens are introduced to everyday household sounds, gentle grooming like brushing and nail trims, and lots of toys to build confidence. By the end of this stage they're mostly on solid food. Our daughters help with socialization.
Stage 05
Week 8
Personality notes and professional photos, so families can really get to know each kitten. Waitlist families then choose their kitten in order of deposit, with a 24-hour window to decide.
Stage 06
Week 8–12
Kittens keep growing, playing and learning in our home while they complete their vet care: a licensed vet exam, core vaccinations and deworming, spay/neuter, and microchip. Professional photos are taken again at 12 weeks.
Stage 07
Week 12+
Go-home day! Each kitten leaves with a health certificate, TICA paperwork, an organized records folder, and a go-home kit with sample food, a blanket with a familiar scent, toys, and a grooming tool. Kittens never leave before 12 weeks, so they head home confident, fully weaned and litter trained.
Stage 08
After
Lifetime breeder support. We love receiving updates and photos, and we're always here for questions about settling in, feeding, grooming and everyday care. Any health concerns should go to your vet first.