Bringing Home Your First Kitten

Before the kitten arrives

Home safety

• Install "anti-cat" safety nets on windows.
• Secure windows set to tilt-open ventilation mode.
• Move electrical cords out of reach.
• Store household chemicals and medications out of reach.
• Remove toxic houseplants.
• Check for narrow gaps behind furniture and appliances.
• Secure tall furniture and shelves.
• Remove small objects, threads, rubber bands, and bags.
• Make high places safe to prevent falls.

Essential supplies

Litter box

• Litter box.
• Litter.
• Scoop.
• Litter mat.

Food and water (1 or more of each)

• Food bowl.
• Water bowl or fountain.
• Food the kitten was already eating.
• Treats.

Sleep and rest

• Bed.
• Blanket.
• Hideout or house.

Play

• Scratching post.
• Wand toy.
• Balls.
• Interactive toys.

For transport

• Carrier.
• Absorbent pad.
• ID tag (if needed).

First day at home

• Open the carrier and let the kitten come out on its own.
• Show it where the litter box is.
• Show it the food and water bowls.
• Don't introduce the whole apartment at once — start with one room and open up more space as the kitten shows interest.
• Avoid picking it up unless necessary.
• Let it explore the space calmly.
• Don't invite guests on the first day.

First 7 days

• Feed the food it's used to.
• Don't switch litter.
• Stick to a feeding schedule.
• Play daily, 10–20 minutes per session.
• Monitor its appetite.
• Monitor its water intake.
• Monitor its bowel movements and urination.
• Gradually introduce the rest of the rooms.

Veterinary care

• Schedule an initial checkup.
• Check for a microchip.
• Check the vaccination schedule.
• Discuss parasite prevention.
• Ask about a recommended diet.

If you have other pets at home

• Prepare a separate room.
• Separate bowls.
• Separate litter box.
• Don't introduce the animals right away.
• Do regular scent swapping between the animals using scented items.
• Gradually arrange their first meetings.

After the adjustment period

• Choose a suitable food.
• Set up a feeding routine.
• Set up vertical space.
• Get additional scratching posts.
• Schedule spaying or neutering (based on age and your vet's recommendations).
• Create a digital pet passport.