The information in this article is based on consultation with veterinarian, discussion with other cat parents,
and our own personal experiences adopting kittens.
New kitten checklist
Before You Get Your Kitten
Kitten-proof your home
Purchase all necessary supplies
Prepare yourself for cat parenthood!
Kitten-Proof Your Home
Before bringing your new kitten home, you will need to prepare your home. This includes:
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Designate a Safe Area: Initially, keep your kitten in one room with all their essentials (litter box, food, water, and a cozy bed). This helps them acclimate to their surroundings gradually.
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Remove Hazards: Hide or secure potential dangers such as:
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Blind cords and dangling objects
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Chewable electronic cords
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Breakable items and valuables
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Medications and small objects that could be ingested
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Plants that are toxic to cats
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Keep the toilet lid closed to prevent access
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Window and Door Screens: Install screens on windows and doors to prevent escape. Curious kittens might try to explore outside through open windows or doors, so be cautious when opening them.
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Remember, creating a safe space ensures a smooth transition for your new feline friend!
Purchase All Necessary Supplies
Supplies you’ll need before welcoming your new kitten home. I’ve divided them into two categories: absolute essentials and recommended items that enhance your kitten’s comfort and well-being:
Wet food. Make sure on the label it says suitable for "growth" or "all life stages". Growing kittens need more calories and protein than adult cats.
Food and water bowls
Cat carrier
Litter box. Choose a kitten-friendly litter box with at least one low wall for easy access.
Litter. Choose a litter that is soft and sand-like, low dust, and unlikely to be mistaken for food.
Cat bed. You can opt for a designated cat bed or a cozy DIY spot for them to snooze and feel safe (e.g. nest of blankets).
Collar, harness, and leash for when you expose them to the great outdoors
Recommended Kitten Items
Brush or Comb: Regular grooming keeps their coat healthy.
Kitten-Safe Toys: Choose toys without small, easily breakable, or ingestible parts. Our list of the best cat toys includes some kitten-friendly options.
ID Tag: Ensure your kitten wears an ID tag with your contact information.
Kitten Treats: Reward good behavior and create positive associations.
Nail Trimmers: Get your kitten accustomed to nail clipping early.
Scratching Post: Provide a designated scratching object to protect furniture.
Cat Tree: Enrich their environment and give them vertical space.
Toothbrush and Cat Toothpaste: Start dental care early to prevent future issues.
Optional: Consider pet insurance and microchipping.
Remember, each kitten is unique, so adapt based on their needs and preferences!
Prepare Yourself for Cat Parenthood!
Raising a kitten is an incredibly enjoyable and exciting experience, but it requires patience and understanding. Remember that your mischievous furball is a baby animal. Instead of yelling or punishing them for bad behavior, redirect their attention and address the issue constructively. Consider how to prevent similar situations in the future, and reward them when they exhibit good behavior. Teaching them to coexist harmoniously with other household members is key.
Bringing Your Kitten Home
Introduce your kitten to your home.
Establish a feeding and play schedule.
Socialize and bond with your kitten.
Schedule your first vet appointment.
Introduce Your Kitten to Your Home
When introducing your kitten to their new home, keep in mind that it can be a stressful experience for them. Leaving behind familiar surroundings can make them feel scared and overwhelmed.
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To ease their transition:
Start Small: Confine them to a small room initially (like a spare bedroom). This helps them adjust without feeling overwhelmed by the entire house.
Essentials: Provide a litter box, cozy bed, and food/water bowls in this room.
Gradual Exploration: Over the first week, introduce them to other areas of your home one at a time. Supervise and reassure them during these explorations.
Remember, patience and a gentle approach go a long way in helping your kitten feel at home!
Establish Feeding and Play Schedule
When it comes to feeding your kitten, here’s a helpful guideline:
Feeding Schedule:
2 to 6 months old: Aim for at least three meals each day.
6 months to 1 year: Twice-daily feeding is generally best.
1 year and beyond: Once or twice a day is appropriate for most adult cats.
Play Sessions:
Kittens require playtime to burn off energy and develop their physical and mental skills.
Aim for a minimum of two 15-minute play sessions daily, but adjust based on your kitten’s energy levels and preferences.
Remember, every kitten is unique, so observe your little furball and adjust the schedule as needed.
Socialize and Bond with Your Kitten
Socializing your kitten is crucial for their well-being and development. Here are some steps to help your kitten adjust and build confidence:
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Bonding and Exposure:
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Spend quality time with your kitten, playing and interacting.
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Introduce them to new people, places, and experiences gradually.
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Reassure them if they seem scared; over time, they’ll become more comfortable.
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Introducing Children and Other Pets:
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Introduce children one at a time, emphasizing gentle handling.
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For other pets, start with scent exchanges (closed-door introductions).
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Gradually allow direct contact in a controlled manner.
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Handling Practice:
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Gently pick up and hold your kitten daily.
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Touch their ears, paws, tummy, and tail to acclimate them.
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Regular handling makes vet visits easier in the future.
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Remember, patience and consistency are key!
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Here are some other things to expose your kitten to in their first few weeks:
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Car ride
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Being in their carrier
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Meeting new people and animals (e.g. friends and their pets)
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Having their fur brushed
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Nail trimming
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Loud noises (e.g. machines, music)
Schedule Vet Appointment
When bringing home a new kitten, schedule their vet visit within 4 weeks—ideally around 12 weeks of age. During this crucial visit, the veterinarian will:
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Conduct a physical examination, checking weight, vital signs, and various body areas for abnormalities.
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Administer essential vaccinations to protect against common diseases.
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Discuss microchipping options for easy identification.
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Provide guidance on nutrition, dental care, and other important aspects of kitten health.
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Remember, timely care sets the stage for your kitten’s long-term well-being!
Conclusion
Welcoming a new kitten into your home is an exciting time. To ensure their
well-being, by following this checklist you can make sure that your new kitten has everything they need to thrive in their new home
