Bringing Home a New Kitten: The Ultimate Preparation Guide

Stacey Rhee

At Kitty Up, We Believe in Giving Kittens the Best Start

At Kitty Up, we’re more than just a brand—we’re passionate feline advocates, fosters, and rescuers. Watching our foster kittens find their forever homes is always a bittersweet moment. Our greatest hope is that they not only receive love but also the best care possible.

If you’re welcoming a new kitten into your family, preparation is key! From kitten-proofing your home to choosing the right food and supplies, this guide will help you and your furry friend start your journey together on the right paw.

1. Preparing Your Home for a New Kitten 🏡🐾

Before your kitten arrives, set up a safe and comfortable environment to help them adjust smoothly.

✅ Create a Cozy Kitten Space – Set up a small, quiet area where your kitten can settle in. This can be a spare room, a corner of your living room, or a separate enclosed space.

✅ Kitten-Proofing Checklist – Remove hazards like loose wires, toxic plants, small objects, and open spaces where a kitten could get stuck. (ASPCA Kitten Safety Guide)

✅ Essential Kitten Supplies:

🛏️ Soft bedding for warmth and comfort.
🚽 Litter box & litter placed in a quiet, accessible location.
🍽️ Food & water bowls—preferably stainless steel to avoid bacteria buildup.
🏀 Toys & scratching posts to encourage play and scratching habits.
🏡 Hiding spots—kittens love feeling safe and secure in small, cozy places.

2. Kitten-Proofing Your Home: Safety First! 🛑

Kittens are naturally curious and love to explore, so making your home kitten-safe is crucial.

✔️ Secure Electrical Cords & Small Objects – Use cord protectors and keep small objects like hair ties or rubber bands out of reach.

✔️ Remove Toxic Plants & Chemicals – Common household plants like lilies, poinsettias, and aloe vera are toxic to cats. Store household cleaners in locked cabinets.

✔️ Check for Small Gaps & Hideaways – Kittens can squeeze into tiny spaces, so block access to behind appliances, under heavy furniture, and inside recliners.

🐱 Pro Tip: Want to keep your kitten entertained safely? Our Kitty Up Optimal Puree makes a perfect training treat to encourage playtime bonding!

3. First Vet Visit for Your Kitten: What to Expect 🏥

Your kitten’s first veterinary visit should be scheduled within a week of adoption to ensure they’re healthy and up-to-date on care.

📌 What Happens at the First Vet Visit?

A full health check to rule out any medical concerns.
First vaccinations and deworming treatments.
A discussion on spaying/neutering options.
Microchipping for added safety in case they ever get lost.

🔎 Helpful Resource: Guide to Your Kitten’s First Vet Visit

4. Best Nutrition for Kittens: What Should They Eat? 🍽️

Kittens have specific dietary needs that support their rapid growth and development.

🥩 High-Protein Diet – Look for real meat-based kitten food with essential amino acids like taurine.

⏰ Frequent Feeding Schedule – Kittens need to eat 3-4 small meals per day until they’re 6 months old.

💧 Hydration Matters – Always provide fresh water and consider adding moisture-rich foods like our Kitty Up Optimal Puree to support hydration and digestion.

5. Socialization & Play: Building a Happy Kitten 🐾🎾

Early socialization and play are essential for your kitten’s mental and emotional well-being.

👐 Handle Your Kitten Gently – Gradually introduce petting and handling to build trust.

🏠 Introducing a Kitten to Other Pets – Keep initial meetings short and supervised. Swap bedding between pets to familiarize them with each other’s scent.

🎾 Mental Stimulation – Engage your kitten with interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and training treats like our Kitty Up Purees to reinforce positive behavior.

6. Litter Box Training: Setting Up for Success 🚽

Most kittens instinctively use a litter box, but proper setup ensures long-term success.

📍 Place the Litter Box in a Quiet Spot – Kittens prefer a low-traffic area with easy access.

🧼 Keep It Clean – Scoop daily and change litter weekly to encourage regular use.

👍 Use Positive Reinforcement – Praise or treat your kitten after successful use—never punish for accidents!

🐱 Recommended Read: Litter Box Training Tips

Final Thoughts: Welcoming Your Kitten Home 🏡❤️

Bringing a new kitten home is an exciting milestone. By kitten-proofing your home, providing proper nutrition, and ensuring early socialization, you’re setting them up for a healthy, happy life.

At Kitty Up, we’re here to support you every step of the way! Check out our science-backed, health-focused treats and supplements to give your kitten the best start possible.

For further reading and expert advice, check out these trusted sources: