Preparing for a New Kitten

Adding a new kitten to your home will be a fun and exciting experience!  They are so much fun!  However, they also require lot of attention and the preparation of your home for their arrival. 

Here are a few tips to prepare yourself and your home for this new addition: 

Shopping for items needed

You will want to get some small food and water bowls, as well as a kitten-formulated food.  This is important for the growth of your kitten up until they are a year of age when they can then make the switch to an adult cat food.  Get a sturdy litter box (we advise one with a cover over it to lessen the amount of litter that gets kicked out) and a high quality litter and scooper.  Find them a soft bed and place it in a warm, low-traffic area of your house.  A carpet-covered scratching post or pad is a great idea to discourage the clawing of furniture.  And last but not least, don’t forget some toys to keep them occupied…they have a lot of energy!     

Preparing your home for a rambunctious little feline

Secure any drape or blind cords up high and out of reach to prevent tangling or choking.  Bundle electrical and phone cords and fasten them out of reach so they cannot be chewed on.  Remove poisonous plants as well as any bug/rodent traps.  Keep the toilet lid down and washer and dryer doors closed.  Keep any cleaning supplies or chemicals locked up. 

Teaching the young members of your family how to interact with your kitten

Teach your small children how to hold and pet the kitten gently.  The kiddos will surely be excited, but try to keep them quiet during that first introduction so as not to startle the kitten.  Rest assured, they will be fast friends in no time! 

Introducing your kitten to resident pets of the home

Make sure you are present during the first few times your new kitten comes into contact with any pets already residing in the home.  If there is any growling or hissing, move them to separate rooms to calm down and then try again after a little bit.  Reward each of them for calm behavior. 

Making an appointment for your kitten’s first vet check-up

Try to make an appointment with your veterinarian within 1-2 days of your kitten’s arrival.  Your vet will do a thorough check for any ear mites and fleas, as well as a routine deworming as it is very common for kittens to have worms.  Whether your kitten goes outside the home or not, they will need vaccinations.  These can typically be started at approximately 8 weeks of age.  This would also be a great time to visit with your veterinarian about what age is appropriate for the spaying or neutering.  This will be a great start to a long-term health care plan.   

Following these steps should make the transition phase into your home as pleasant and easy as possible.  Enjoy your new furry friend!