New kitten checklist: How to prepare for a kitten

Whether you buy or adopt, bringing home a new kitten is an exciting time, but preparation is key to helping your furry friend settle into their new surroundings. From gathering essential supplies to kitten-proofing your home, there's plenty to think about before your bundle of fluff arrives.

Our new kitten checklist covers everything you need to know about how to prepare for a kitten, helping you feel confident and ready to welcome your new companion home.

In this guide:

1. Your kitten essentials checklist
2. How to prepare your home for a kitten
3. Registering with a vet
4. Helping your kitten settle in
5. Litter training your new kitten
6. What to expect from your new kitten
7. Getting ready to welcome your new kitten home

If you’re still deciding whether a kitten is the right choice for you, take a moment to read our guide on things to consider before getting a kitten to help you make an informed decision. Animal welfare organisations such as PDSA emphasise that understanding a kitten’s long-term needs before bringing one home supports better outcomes for both pets and owners.

Your kitten essentials checklist

Before your kitten arrives, you'll want to stock up on supplies so they have everything they need from day one. Here are some essential items you’ll need to add to your checklist before getting a kitten:

1. Food and water bowls

Choose shallow, sturdy bowls that won't tip over easily. Stainless steel or ceramic options are hygienic and easy to clean. Place food and water bowls in separate areas, as cats naturally prefer not to eat near their water source.

2. Kitten food 

Select a high-quality food specifically formulated for kittens, as they have different nutritional requirements to adult cats. If possible, ask the breeder or rescue centre what food your kitten has been eating so you can continue with the same brand initially.

3. Litter tray 

Opt for a tray with low sides that your kitten can easily climb in and out of. You may want to upgrade to a larger or covered tray as they grow.

4. Cat litter 

There are many types available, including clumping, non-clumping, and biodegradable options. Non-clumping litter is often recommended for very young kittens who are still learning to use the tray.

5. Cosy bed 

Kittens need plenty of sleep, so provide a warm, comfortable bed in a quiet corner away from draughts. Placing a hot water bottle wrapped in a blanket inside can help during the first few nights.

6. Scratching post

Scratching is a natural behaviour that helps kittens stretch their muscles and maintain healthy claws. Providing a dedicated scratching post can help protect your furniture.

7. Toys 

Kittens are naturally playful and curious. Stock up on interactive toys like feather wands, toy mice, and balls to keep them entertained and encourage exercise.

8. Cat carrier 

A secure, sturdy carrier is essential for transporting your kitten safely. Look for one with a top-opening option, as this makes it easier to place your kitten inside.

9. Grooming supplies  

A soft brush helps keep your kitten's coat in good condition and gets them used to being handled from an early age.

How to prepare your home for a kitten

Kittens are curious little explorers, so a bit of preparation before they arrive will help keep them safe and settled. Here are some quick tips to get your home ready:

• Tuck away or cover electrical cables to prevent chewing
• Remove toxic plants such as lilies from your home and garden
• Store cleaning products, medications and chemicals in secure cupboards
• Clear away small items like hair ties, elastic bands and sewing needles
• Block access to balconies, chimneys and any gaps where a kitten could get stuck
• Keep toilet lids closed to prevent accidents
• Set up a quiet, cosy spot with a soft bed where your kitten can retreat and feel secure
• Create a dedicated feeding area away from their litter tray and sleeping space
• Consider installing a cat flap so your kitten can come and go safely once they're old enough to venture outside

For a full checklist, read our guide to kitten-proofing your home!

Registering with a vet

Finding a vet you trust is an important step when preparing for a new kitten and knowing what to expect in those first few weeks. Your vet will be your partner in keeping your pet healthy throughout their life, from their first check-up to routine care as they grow.

Here's what to consider:

• Register before your kitten arrives: This means you'll have support on hand from day one if you have any concerns.
• Book an initial health check: A vet can assess your kitten's overall health and advise on getting your kitten vaccinated, flea and worming treatments, and neutering.
• Microchipping: In England, it’s now a legal requirement to have your cat microchipped by 20 weeks of age (as of June 2024). Similar legislation may apply in other parts of the UK. This helps ensure you can be reunited if they ever go missing.
• Consider kitten insurance: Pet insurance can help to give you peace of mind for unexpected vet bills that arise as a result of an accident, injury, or illness. 

Helping your kitten settle in

The first few days in a new home can be overwhelming for a kitten. With patience and understanding, you can help them adjust and feel safe in their new surroundings.

Start with one room

Confine your kitten to a single room initially, with their bed, food, water, and litter tray easily accessible. This helps prevent them from feeling overwhelmed.

Keep things calm 

Avoid loud noises and too much handling in the first few days. Let your kitten explore at their own pace and come to you when they're ready.

Stick to familiar food 

Keep your kitten on the same food they've been eating to avoid stomach upsets. If you want to change their diet, do so gradually over a week or two.

Provide comfort 

A blanket or toy with the scent of their mother or littermates can help your kitten feel more secure during the transition.

Introduce other pets slowly 

If you have other animals, take introductions gradually to reduce stress for everyone involved.

For more detailed guidance on those crucial early weeks, read our article on caring for a kitten: tips for the first month.

Litter training your new kitten

Most kittens learn to use a litter tray by watching their mother, so many will already understand the basics by the time they come home. However, they may need a little guidance to find the tray in their new environment.

Place the litter tray in a quiet, easily accessible spot away from their food and water. Gently pop your kitten into the tray after meals and naps, as these are times when they're most likely to need to go. With a bit of patience, most kittens catch on quickly.

For step-by-step advice, take a look at our guide on how to litter train a kitten.

What to expect from your new kitten

When you buy or adopt a kitten, they will have their own personalities and create their own kind of mischief, but there are a few things to expect when welcoming a new pet into your family.

Kittens are bundles of energy and will spend plenty of time playing, pouncing, and exploring every corner of your home. This playfulness is not only adorable but also important for their development, helping them hone their coordination and natural hunting instincts.

You can also expect lots of sleep. Kittens need around 18-20 hours of rest each day (according to veterinary guidance) to support their rapid growth, so don't be surprised if they nap frequently between play sessions.

Then, the real fun begins. You'll have to train your kitten so that they can learn how to behave, do tricks, and go to the toilet in the right places. Watching your new cat grow is such a wondrous adventure, and it will have its ups and downs but persevere as the journey is truly magical and you'll have a best friend for life in your new pet.

As your kitten grows, they'll reach various milestones and their behaviour will evolve. To learn more about what's ahead, explore our first year kitten timeline.

Getting ready to welcome your new kitten home

Preparing for a new kitten takes a little time and effort, but getting everything in place before they arrive will help both you and your new companion feel more relaxed and ready for the adventure ahead.

With your kitten essentials checklist ticked off, a safe home environment, and a trusted vet on hand, you'll be well prepared to give your kitten the best possible start in life. The journey of cat parenthood is filled with joy, laughter, and plenty of purrs. Enjoy every moment!

For more helpful tips, tricks and guidance, browse our cat advice section.

Related resources

• Things to consider before getting a kitten
• Caring for a kitten: Tips for the first month
• Kitten timeline: First year
• Kitten insurance
• All cat advice