So, you’ve planned to bring a new kitten (or two), ha? Certainly, adding a new meow-member to your home is an exciting time. But is that it? Bringing a new kitten is much like bringing home a newborn – it comes with much responsibility and preparation. But with a little planning, you can turn your home into an ideal kitty habitat with ease and less stress.
If you’re wondering, “What do I need for a kitten?” start with our new kitten checklist. It covers everything you need, including kitten-proofing your home, feeding, grooming, playtime, health, and hygiene. These essentials will help make your kitten’s first few weeks at home comfortable and enjoyable for both of you.
Here I’ve broken down all the essentials into 5 easy-to-follow checklists:
Kitten Essentials 1: Bringing Your Kitten Home
But before the fun begins, there’s some prep work to ensure your home is safe and ready for your tiny new friend.
Preparation:
We know all too well how curious and mischievous kittens can be. That’s why kitten-proofing your home is a must. Here’s what you need to do before your new kitten arrives:
- Kittens love to play with anything that dangles. So secure the cords from your blinds and any other loose strings around the house. Tie them up and out of reach to prevent playful tangles or accidents.
- Those delicate vases and knick-knacks on your shelves? It’s time to move them to a safe place. Kittens have a knack for knocking things over, and you don’t want your precious items turned into cat toys.
- Electrical cords are tempting for kittens to chew on, but it’s dangerous. Bundle up those cords with zip ties or tape them down to avoid any shocking surprises. And keep your headphones out of sight—kittens love those too.
- Many houseplants are toxic to cats, and kittens love to nibble on greenery. Make sure your plants are safe for cats or place them where your kitten can’t reach.
- Even a tiny crack in the window is an open invitation for a curious kitten. Make sure all windows are securely shut. Kittens can also tear through window screens, so keep them closed if your kitten is unsupervised.
- Kittens love to climb, and your shelves might look like a perfect jungle gym. Ensure that nothing can fall and injure your kitten. Provide safe climbing alternatives like a cat tree or window hammocks to satisfy their climbing instincts.
- Store your food in secure containers and keep medications locked away. Kittens are notorious for getting into things they shouldn’t, and you want to keep them safe from harmful substances.
First Few Days:
When you bring a new kitten home, remember they’re still considered kittens until about 18 months old. However, some breeds take up to 2 years to fully mature. Start them off in a small room like a bedroom, den, or even a bathroom. This gives them a chance to get comfortable without feeling overwhelmed.
Here’s how to make those first few days smoother for your new furry friend:
- Create a Safe Haven: Set up a small, secure space with essentials like food, water, a litter box, and bedding. Let your kitten explore this area and get comfortable before introducing them to the rest of the house.
- Expand Their World Slowly: Gradually allow your kitten to explore more areas of your home. Keeping an eye on them to ensure they’re not overwhelmed. Take it slow and let your kitten set the pace.
- Introduce Other Pets Gradually: If you have other pets, introduce them slowly. Start with scent exchanges through a closed door, then allow brief, supervised meetings to help them get used to each other.
Remember, every kitten is different. Some are bold and adventurous, while others are more timid and need a bit more time. Watch your kitten’s behavior and let them guide you on when they’re ready to explore more of your home.
Kitten Essentials 2: Supplies for Your New Kitten
Getting your home ready for a new kitten involves gathering some essential supplies. Here’s a rundown of what you’ll need to make sure your new kitten feels right at home.
- Cat Carrier or Crate:
Bringing your new kitten home means you’ll need a good carrier to keep them safe during the journey. If you’re adopting more than one kitten, make sure each has their own appropriately sized carrier.
Even if you’re not planning to travel much, a proper carrier is essential. Especially for your kitten’s long-term health and safety. Most vets recommend hard-sided plastic carriers because they’re sturdy and easy to clean.
When picking a carrier, go for one that opens from both the side and the top. This makes it easier to get your kitten in and out, reducing stress for both of you. A great option to consider is the Petmate Two-Door Top Load Plastic Kennel. It’s durable, easy to use, and perfect for keeping your new furry friend safe and secure.
- Cat Bed:
Sure, your kitten will love napping on your lap, chest, or even your head. But having their bed is still a great idea. Cats love warmth because their body temperature is a bit higher than ours. So, look for a cozy fleece bed, a cave, or a cubby where your kitten can snuggle up and feel safe. A soft, warm bed will quickly become one of their favorite spots to relax and catch some Z’s.
- Cat Food and Water Bowl:
Picking the right food and water bowls for your kitten can make mealtime much smoother. Bowls come in all shapes and sizes. You can choose from elevated, slow feeder, or automatic options. It depends on your lifestyle and your kitten’s habits.
The best bowls are those that are easy to clean and hard to tip over. Non-plastic wide bowls like Van Ness Whisker-Friendly Cat Bowl. Also, stainless steel bowls like the Frisco Non-Skid Cat Bowl, help reduce messes from playful paws. Make sure to clean their bowls daily to keep everything fresh.
Cats often prefer drinking running water, so consider a water fountain. But, always have a regular bowl of water available too, just in case your kitten prefers it that way.
- Cat Litter and Box:
Kittens don’t need special litter, but unscented clumping litter is a great choice. Most cats and kittens prefer open-topped litter boxes, which are also easier to clean. Make sure to scoop the box daily, as kittens will avoid a dirty litter box.
If you have multiple cats, your kitten will need their litter box and get bigger boxes as your kitten grows. The general rule is one box per cat, plus an extra, placed in different spots around your home.
For tiny kittens, a smaller box can help them get in and out easily. Just be ready to upgrade as they grow to ensure they have enough room. The Frisco Senior and Kitten Cat Litter Box is a good option. It’s easy for kittens to use and big enough for when they grow up.
- Collar and Tag:
If your kitten slips out the door or window, having an ID tag and collar can be a lifesaver. It can show they have a home and who to contact. Choose a breakaway collar that unclips if it gets caught on anything. While you’re at it, think about getting your kitten microchipped. It’s the most reliable way to be reunited if they wander off.
Even if your kitten stays indoors, microchipping is a smart precaution in case they escape. Collars can break if they get caught, but a microchip provides a permanent ID. Check with your vet about the best time for microchipping. If your kitten is already chipped, keep the number handy and ensure your contact info is up to date.
However, you might also consider a cat harness or leash. Though not essential, these can be useful for training. Most kittens prefer a harness over a leash because it’s more comfortable.
- Grooming Necessary:
Keeping your kitten well-groomed is essential for their health and happiness. Regular nail trims aren’t just good for your furniture—they help prevent painful ingrown nails and infections. Starting nail trims early on makes the task easier as your cat grows. Make sure to choose good quality nail clippers to make the job smoother.
Brushing your kitten is another key grooming habit. It helps remove loose fur, prevents mats and tangles, and reduces hairballs. Plus, it’s a great way to bond with your new feline friend. Even though your kitten will do a lot of self-grooming, there will be times when they need a little extra help. If they get particularly dirty or you want to reduce shedding, you can bathe them.
Waterless cat shampoo is a great option to keep their coat fresh without the hassle of a full bath. Cat cleaning wipes are also handy for quick clean-ups. It makes it easy to keep your kitten clean from head to tail every day.
- Dental Care Product:
Yes, you read that right. A small toothbrush and kitty toothpaste should be on your shopping list for your new kitten. By around four months old, your kitten will shed her baby teeth and grow a full set of adult teeth. To keep those teeth healthy and avoid bad breath, sore gums, and periodontal disease, start brushing her teeth early. Get your kitten used to tooth brushing from the beginning. It’ll make it a lot easier to maintain good dental hygiene as she grows.
Kitten Essentials 3: Nutrition and Feeding
Now let’s talk about nutrition and feeding your kitten’s needs – what to do and how to feed them well:
- Dietary Needs:
Choosing the Right Food for Your Kitten
Got a new kitten under 6 months old? You’ll want to get food specifically made for growing kittens, like Purina ONE +Plus Kitten Formula. These little kittens need more calories and a different nutrient balance compared to adult cats.
Wet vs. Dry Food: Which is Best?
Feeding your kitten both wet and dry food can be a good idea. It helps them avoid becoming picky eaters, which is super helpful if they ever need special food as an adult. Plus, it adds some variety to their diet.
Starting with Their Current Food
When you bring your new kitten home, stick with the food they were eating at the shelter, rescue, or breeder. This avoids any tummy troubles. Once they’re settled, have a chat with your vet about the best diet for your kitten. If you need to switch foods, do it gradually over 7 to 10 days to avoid upsetting their stomach.
Using Treats Wisely
Treats are great for bonding and training, but don’t go overboard. Too many can lead to weight gain. Look for low-calorie treats and keep them to just about 10% of your kitten’s diet. This way, you can reward them without worrying about their waistline.
- Feeding Schedule:
Setting Up a Feeding Routine
Creating a regular feeding schedule for your kitten is key. Try to feed them at the same time every day. Kittens usually do well with three to four meals a day. As they grow older, you can gradually shift to two meals a day.
Measuring Food Portions
Be sure to measure out how much food you’re giving your kitten. This helps prevent them from getting overweight, especially after they’ve been spayed or neutered. You can always adjust the amount based on advice from your vet.
Avoid Overfeeding and Keep an Eye on Weight
It’s tempting to spoil your new kitten with lots of food, but overfeeding can lead to weight issues. Keep an eye on their weight and adjust their portions if needed. Your vet can help you figure out the right amount to feed your kitten to keep them healthy and at a good weight.
Always Provide Freshwater
Your kitten should always have access to fresh, clean water. Change their water daily and make sure the bowl is clean. Hydration is just as important as their food, so keep that water flowing.
Kitten Essentials 4: Health and Hygiene
It’s time for health and hygiene. Schedule a vet appointment for your kitten as soon as possible. Even if you haven’t decided on a name yet. If your kitten came with treatment records from a rescue, shelter, or breeder, send those to your vet beforehand. This helps streamline the first visit, so you and your vet can focus on what your kitten still needs.
- Kitten Wellness 101: A Vet Checklist
Calming Aids
New homes can be stressful for kittens. If yours seems anxious, ask your vet about using pheromone diffusers or other calming aids. Products like Feliway sprayed in their room can help. Also, a calming collar might give extra nervous kittens a little more comfort.
Most of the vet suggests using a pheromone spray to make your kitten feel secure. They advise against overwhelming your new kitten with too much attention, especially if they’re shy. When you visit them, offer gentle, calm pets to help them see you as their new best friend. These tips can make the transition smoother and help your kitten feel at home.
Lifetime Pet Insurance
Caring for a kitten is a long-term commitment, and vet bills can add up quickly. Pet insurance can help cover these costs. There are different plans available, so you can find one that fits your needs and budget.
On average, pet parents spend between $755 and $3,020 on their kittens in the first year. While we hope for our kitten to stay healthy, having insurance can lessen the cost of unexpected vet bills.
Most plans cover emergency visits or surgeries, and some also offer wellness plans for regular check-ups. Having insurance means you’re better prepared for any surprises along the way.
Detect Transmissible Cat Disease
It’s important to test for transmissible diseases. Especially if you have other cats. Ask your vet to test your kitten for feline leukemia, FIV, and heartworms with a blood test. Also, bring a fecal sample to check for intestinal parasites, which are very common in kittens.
Schedule for Vaccination
Even if your kitten received some vaccines at the breeder or shelter, they’ll still need more. Here’s a general schedule:
8-11 weeks:
- First tests for Feline Leukemia (FeLV) and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV)
- First vaccinations for FVRCP and FeLV
- Deworming
- Fecal testing
- Starting heartworm and flea preventative medication
12-15 weeks:
- Second vaccinations for FVRCP and FeLV
- Rabies vaccine (may be given earlier depending on the clinic)
- Fecal testing
16-19 weeks:
- Second tests for FeLV and FIV
- Third vaccination for FVRCP
- Rabies vaccine (if not given earlier)
- Fecal testing
Spaying or Neutering
Get your kitten spayed or neutered by five months old to prevent issues before they reach maturity. Your vet can also implant a microchip during this procedure if it hasn’t been done yet.
- Parasite Prevention:
Even if your kitten stays indoors, they’re still at risk for fleas and other parasites. Fleas can hitch a ride into your home on rodents, other pets, and even on you. And if your kitten gets some outdoor time on a harness or in a catio, they also need tick prevention.
There are several safe and effective ways to protect your kitten from parasites. You can choose from topical treatments, oral medications, or collars. Each type has its benefits. So it’s a good idea to discuss these options with your vet to find the best one for your kitten.
Your vet is your best resource for figuring out the right parasite prevention schedule and products for your kitten. They can guide how often to treat your kitten and which products will be most effective.
Litter Box Training:
I have good news for you–potty training a kitten is usually much easier than training a puppy. It’s all about positive reinforcement. Whenever your kitten uses the litter box correctly, give them lots of praise and maybe even a treat. This helps them associate the litter box with good things.
Troubleshooting Common Litter Box Problems
Sometimes, kittens might have a few hiccups with their litter box habits. Here’s how to troubleshoot:
- If your kitten isn’t using the litter box, try moving it to a different spot. They might prefer a quieter, more private location.
- Kittens are particular about cleanliness. Make sure to scoop the litter box daily and change the litter regularly.
- Some kittens can be picky about the type of litter. If they’re not using the box, try a different kind to see if they prefer it.
- If your kitten suddenly stops using the litter box, a trip to the vet might be in order. Sometimes, health issues can cause changes in litter box habits.
Kitten Essentials 5: Play and Development
Just like human babies, kittens are full of energy and curiosity. Playtime isn’t just about having fun—it’s also crucial for their physical and mental growth. Let’s see how to choose the best toys to keep your kitten entertained and safe.
- Playtime Physical and Mental Development:
Choosing Safe and Stimulating Toys
Kittens love to play, and there’s a ton of toys out there to keep them entertained. Soft toys they can carry, toy mice to swat, and catnip toys to bunny kicks are always big hits. Interactive wands like Da Bird and the Cat Dancer are great for getting your kitten moving and for bonding time. Just remember, don’t leave your kitten alone with toys they might swallow.
You don’t have to spend a lot on toys. You can make fun and safe toys from things around the house. For example, a ping pong ball, an empty wooden thread spool, balled-up waxed paper, etc.
Keep harmful items away from your kitten. Including, balls of string, balls of aluminum foil or cellophane, corks, rubber bands, spools of thread, and wire twist ties.
Creating an Enriched Environment
Scratching posts, beds, and cat trees are essential. They not only keep your kitten entertained but also keep them from scratching up your furniture. There are lots of scratching post options out there. You can find one that fits your style or even make your own. I recommend these two: SmartCat Scratching Post and Frisco Scratch with Catnip.
Cats love to climb and observe from high places. Providing a cat tree or window perch can give them a safe place to retreat and feel secure. These items help satisfy their natural curiosity and need for physical activity.
Social Interaction for a Well-Adjusted Kitten
Social interaction is crucial for your kitten’s development. It helps them become well-adjusted and confident. When introducing them to other pets, take it slow and steady. Start with short, supervised meetings and gradually increase the time they spend together. This helps everyone get used to each other without too much stress.
It’s Time To Welcome A New Kitten
Remember, when your new cat or kitten arrives home, it can be a lot for them to take in. The unfamiliar surroundings might feel daunting, especially for kittens. It takes time to adjust to a completely new environment. During this time, be patient and create a calm atmosphere for them. Ensure everything they need is ready before they arrive, so they can feel comfortable right from the beginning.