Getting a kitten is an exciting time. Before bringing home a new kitten, you’ll need to prepare. This guide will tell you about settling in a new kitten, so you can welcome your new companion where they’ll feel right at home!
Before your new kitten comes home
Before bringing home a new kitten, here are a few things to get sorted out:
- Get your new kitten registered with a vet right away for their vaccinations, neutering, and in case they’re unwell.
- Once you’ve found a vet, ask them about cat insurance policies that will cover any unexpected veterinary costs.
- Arrange to have your new cat permanently identified with a microchip in case they get lost.
New kitten essentials
It’s time for fun - shopping for new kitten essentials! Here’s a new kitten checklist:
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A secure cat carrier. It comes in a wide range of sizes. Make sure you get one that’s large and comfortable enough.
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Two bowls – one for food and one for water. Buy easy-clean ceramic or glass bowls over metal ones as some cats don’t like reflections or shadows in their bowl as they feed or drink. Make sure they’re wide enough for leaning in and lapping from without their whiskers touching the sides, as this can put some cats off.
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A litter tray and litter. Best to use the same type used by the breeder or rescue shelter, at least until they’ve settled in, so that they recognise it – and know what to do with it!
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A litter tray and litter. Best to use the same type used by the breeder or rescue shelter, at least until they’ve settled in, so that they recognise it – and know what to do with it!
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A cat bed – many prefer an igloo-style bed for snuggly security, or one elevated from the ground
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Grooming implements, particularly if they’re longhaired.
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A scratching post made of tree bark or a sisal string-wrapped pole. Scratching helps keep your cats’ claws in good condition and a dedicated post would distract them from damaging your furniture and carpets.
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A range of cat toys, like soft objects you dangle for them to chase and pounce on. This gives them an outlet for their natural hunting behaviours.
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Kitten food. Feed your new kitten the same diet they’re used to from their breeder or rescue centre for at least a week. Switch them gradually if you decide to change their food.
The first week – how to settle a kitten
It’s time for bringing your kitten home with you! This is exciting for you, but may be scary for your cat as it’s a new situation for them. It’s best to keep everything calm and gentle, rather than introducing a new kitten to a loud welcome party.
Car travel can be disorientating and nerve-wracking when bringing a kitten home. Treat their carrier with a calming pheromone spray, and place it on a flat secure space in your car, or on the footwell floor covering it with a blanket. The spray, the darkness and driving carefully will help keep them calm. Go straight home after you’ve collected your cat – this isn’t the time to go gallivanting in the shops!
Once you’re home, place their carrying basket on the floor, open the door, and let your new kitten come out in their own time. They’ll probably have a good sniff around before finding their bed. When they’ve investigated every nook and cranny, give them a little cuddle and see if they need a rest.
Kittens love plenty of sleep. After all the excitement of the car journey and home exploration, allow them to nap. Place your kitten’s sleeping arrangements somewhere warm, quiet and away from draughts.
When you first bring your kitten home, offer them food but don't be surprised if they don't eat. Cats may not feed for a while if they’re a bit stressed. Give them time to settle in and their appetite would soon return.
Place their litter tray in a quiet, easily accessible area where your new kitten won’t be disturbed, away from their bed and feeding area. Check at least twice a day, removing solids and soiled litter right away. Empty and disinfect the tray at least once a week to keep it smelling fresh. Have more than one litter tray around the house to prevent toileting issues especially if you have more than one cat. There should be one litter tray per cat plus one extra.
Keep your new kitten indoors for the first 2-3 weeks to allow them time to settle in. Make sure there are no open doors or windows through which they could sneak out.
Go outdoors when you and the new kitten are feeling confident. If you’re not sure when this will be, consult your vet.
Dedicate time when introducing a new kitten to their surroundings to help them settle into an established routine. This time is essential not only for helping your new kitten settle in, but also for establishing your bond.
Once your new kitten has found their confidence, they will soon be dashing around the house. Watch your step as they can appear suddenly from nowhere!
They’ll be up for plenty of play but will still need their naps. Find them a nice quiet spot where they can curl up in peace. Everything will be new, challenging and exciting, and a bit overwhelming for your new kitten. They may be a bit withdrawn at first, but they should soon settle in their new home. If they remain reclusive, speak to your vet.
Your kitten’s breeder and vet will be more than happy to give you further advice about your new cat, their health and settling them in their new home. In the meantime, enjoy getting to know them. Have fun with your new furry family member!
