How to Care for Your New Kitten

Last week, we covered how to care for a new puppy. Generally, the steps of preparing to bring home a new pet are similar. But cats are totally different animals from dogs and require different care. So if you’re wondering how to care for your new kitten, have no fear! We haven’t forgotten about our feline friends. We’re going to go over some of the main things to think about when bringing home your new fur baby.

Have the essentials ready to go

It goes without saying that you should have the basic essentials prepared even before you get your new pet. Having a cat requires having food, treats, bowls, a litter box, toys, a scratching post, bedding, hides, a travel carrier. You may also want to buy a collar or harness, a leash, nail clippers, and a brush. The exact items you need depends on how involved you want to be in your pet’s grooming and what kinds of activities you plan to do with your cat.

Kitten-proof your house

Don’t let those cute faces fool you! A kitten’s tiny claws can do a lot of damage, and their natural curiosity and instincts to hide mean that they want to get into everything. Not only do you have to worry about what’s lying on the ground, but you have to go vertical too. Make sure there’s no wires left in the open to chew on. Check for any strings that your kitten may get tangled in, including the cords to blinds or curtains. Clean up any food – whether that’s dirty dishes in the sink or crumbs on the floor – and anything small enough to pose a choking hazard. Kittens can also squeeze into seemingly impossible spaces, so seal up any nooks or crannies that your kitten may get stuck in. For a more detailed look at kitten-proofing, check out the Spruce Pets’ how-to article.

Schedule a vet visit

The most important thing to do when bringing home any pet is scheduling an appointment with a vet. Kittens are no exceptions to this rule! At the checkup, you can have your kitten looked over, find out about any vaccinations, and learn more about what a proper diet looks like. You may want to inquire about microchipping. This is also your opportunity to ask any and all questions related to your new pet. When in doubt, go to the professionals!

Bond and build trust

In our article about bringing home a puppy, we emphasized external socializing. That’s applicable to kittens as well, but you may find that you also need to invest a lot of time and energy into the bond between you and your new kitten. Man’s best friend is one of the most trusting animals in the pet trade, and all other animals need more direct involvement from the owner to build a bond. During those first few critical weeks in their new home, make it a priority to respect your kitten’s boundaries as much as possible. Try to read their body language and keep them comfortable. Let them approach you instead of constantly chasing them down and invading their personal space. Have lots of play time and give lots of treats for good behavior. First impressions make a big difference, so make it a good one!

Bringing home a new pet is such an exciting time! Kittens with their playful personalities and soft fur and adorable faces make perfect companions, but there’s no such thing as a low maintenance pet (at least, definitely not among mammals). When planning for a new kitten, you’ve got to make the proper preparations before they come home and continue proper care once they’re there. This list is just to get you thinking of considerations, but it’s in no way exhaustive. Go out and do your own research to make sure you cover all your bases. We hope this article has helped you feel more prepared for the newest addition to your family!

Last week, we covered how to care for a new puppy. Generally, the steps of preparing to bring home a new pet are similar. But cats are totally different animals from dogs and require different care. So if you’re wondering how to care for your new kitten, have no fear! We haven’t forgotten about our…