Bringing A Kitten Home

When you welcome your inquisitive new kitten into your home, they'll probably take a little time to get used to their new surroundings. It’s best to let your kitten explore, and discover things in their own time. Even so, there are still plenty of things you can do to help your kitten settle in.

Which room?

Decide which room your kitten will live in for the first few days. Make sure the room has a door or some other way of shielding your kitten from the hustle and bustle of daily life, including children and other pets.

High places and hiding spots

In the wild, your kitten’s big cat cousins like to patrol their territory from a high vantage point. This keeps them out of the way of predators, and helps them spot potential prey without being seen. If possible, choose a room where your new feline friend can hide easily, and where they can get up high. By encouraging your kitten to recreate this kind of natural behaviour, you’ll help them settle in more easily.

Litter tray

Cats naturally choose a quiet, secluded place to go to the toilet. So it’s a good idea to place your kitten’s litter tray in a corner opposite the door. Don't forget to have tray liners and a scoop ready, and remember to clean out the tray regularly. Cats like to keep themselves clean, and if the tray is dirty your kitten will probably choose to go somewhere else!

Food and water bowls

In the wild, big cats never eat in the same place as they go to the toilet. So it makes sense to position your kitten’s food and water bowl as far away from the litter tray as possible. Your cute little kitten will also thank you for using shallow bowls, because the low sides won’t bang their sensitive whiskers.

Cat basket

Cat baskets should be comfortable, warm and easy to clean. If you do provide one for you kitten, however, don't be surprised if they make their own choice about where to sleep. That independent nature is just one of the many things you'll grow to love about your new feline friend!

Cat carrier

You'll need a cat carrier not only for your kitten’s first journey home, but also for later trips, such as to the vet or cattery. There's a wide range of different types available, so pick the one that you and your kitten are happiest with.

Scratching posts

Scratching is a natural behaviour. It keeps a cat’s claws in good hunting condition, and also creates both scent and visual signals designed to mark territory. Give your kitten a scratching post, and watch them exercise their instincts just as nature intended!

Other useful things

• Grooming equipment suitable for your breed
• Cat flap
• Fast-release collar, lead, name tag and bell
• Toys

Settling in

When you first bring your kitten home, keep the house as quiet as possible, and don't be surprised if they start out a bit timid. Show your kitten where their room is, and let them explore by themselves. Leave a door slightly ajar so your kitten can come and go as they please. Your new arrival will soon let you know when they're ready to explore a little further.

Finally, remember not to let your kitten outside until they've been vaccinated. Even after they've had their jabs, it's best to keep your kitten indoors for the first two or three weeks.