Kittens require quite a few things in order to make sure they are comfortably set up in their new home with you. It is a good idea to have at least the following items in your home in order to prepare for your life with your new kitten.
After all you want your new kitten to feel right at home!
New Kitten Checklist: The 10 Things You Don’t Want To Forget For Your Kitten.
#1. Food and Water Bowls
Providing a shallow food and water bowl will help your kitten to learn where to go when they are hungry and thirsty. Make sure to keep these bowls in the same place each day so they can develop the habit of going to the same spot.
It’s also advisable to have a mat to put the bowls on as kittens can be very messy.
#2. Food (either wet canned or dry)
Make sure to choose a food that your kitten enjoys. If they don’t appear to like the food you have for them, you should try a different flavour or a different brand to find the right fit for them.
There are plenty of options in the pet store and if you are unsure then your vet can always advise on the best food to get them.
#3. Litter Box and Scoop
It’s important to keep your kitten’s litter tray in the same place in your home so your kitten knows where to go to the bathroom and associates it with a certain room. Your kitten will have a natural urge to use kitty litter, so they will seek out the litter box.
If you notice that they are not seeking out the litter box, you can show them that it is safe to use by picking them up and placing them inside the box after playtime or feeding and reward them with treats so they see the litter box as a safe and positive place.
#4. Kitty Litter
With many types of litter on the market, it is best to use clumping litter so it is easy to clean up. You can buy scented or non-scented types depending on what you and your kitten’s needs are.
There are cheaper litters on the market, but sometimes you can end up using more of a cheaper litter and so it’s not as cost-effective as you think.
#5. Kitten Collar
If you have chosen to identify your kitten with a collar, make sure to buy one ahead of time that has a breakaway option in case it gets caught. As well, make sure it has adjustable straps so you can ensure it always fits their neck properly while they grow.
It can sometimes take a while for your kitten to get used to the idea of a collar so don’t be surprised if they seem a little unsure of it at first.
#6. ID Tag With Your Phone Number
In case your kitten gets out of your home, it is best to have a way to identify and return them to you. Make sure you get a tag with their name and your phone number on. You can get tags like this at most major pet stores and some online pet stores.
It’s also a good idea to get them microchipped in case their collar comes off and they get lost.
#7. Hard Plastic Carrier
A hard plastic carrier will make sure your kitten is safe during travel to the vets, cattery or other location. All good pet stores stock these and it will be an investment for the life of your cat.
It’s not safe to transport cats in a box in the car in case they get out into the car and cause an accident. Remember a kitten won’t realise you need to concentrate on the road, they will just assume it’s time to play.
#8. Cat Toys
Kittens are really playful and so you will need a variety of toys for your kitten to play with to keep them occupied. They will need things they can chase, like balls or feathers.
#9. Scratching Post
A scratching post is a great addition to any household with a cat. Cats love to sharpen their claws and will be happy to do that on your furniture if there isn’t a designated post for them to do it on.
#10. Create a Budget
You should budget for monthly costs, including food, cat litter, and possible veterinary bills. As well, if you are adopting from a shelter, you will likely be charged an adoption fee.
Once you have all these items accounted and budgeted for, you will be all set to enjoy life with your new kitten.
