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4-H Youth Development

Pets

Whether you're a fish, hamster or cat lover, this project is intended for members to learn more about their household friends. You will focus on hand or aquarium pets or cats as you learn about the different species and how to keep them healthy. You will have the chance to be creative and design a toy for your pet, create a commercial or even a scavenger hunt.

Things to Learn/Do in the Project

Pets
Age 7-9

  • Identify hazards for pets around your home
  • Invent a toy for your pet
  • Learn about your pet's nutritional needs

Age 10-13 

  • Learn about your pet's digestive tract
  • Examine your pet to make sure it is healthy
  • Create a commercial about pet ownership or care

Age 14 and Older

  • Learn the symptoms and treatment of diseases
  • Learn about taxonomic classification
  • Plan a pet store scavenger hunt

Cats
Age 7-9

  • Factors to use when choosing a cat
  • Practice cat grooming techniques
  • Identify household cat hazards

Age 10-13

  • Recognize cat senses
  • Learn about cat cousins
  • Understand cat behavior

Age 14 and Older

  • Study cat diseases affecting people
  • Learn about cat genetics
  • Practice cat showmanship

Project Materials

Reasonably priced materials are available for every project in Kansas 4-H. You can order the materials for your project online or contact your local Extension Office.

Pets (PT100)

Cats (PT101)

Record Keeping Resources

Project Leader Resources

Additional Resources - Veterinary Science

Awards and Recognition

County Level
Award: Medal presented at your 4-H Achievement Banquet

State Level
Award: Medallion

National Level
Award: $400 National 4-H Congress Scholarship

Career Connections