Your New Kitten Starter Checklist
Bringing home a kitten is one of the most rewarding experiences. Cats are independent, entertaining, and endlessly charming. But kittens need the right setup from day one to stay healthy and happy.
Before Kitten Arrives
Set up a small, quiet room as your kitten's home base for the first few days. Include a litter box, food and water, a scratching post, and a hiding spot. Kittens feel overwhelmed in large spaces — starting small helps them adjust.
Essential Supplies
**Litter box**: Start with a low-sided box that kittens can easily climb into. **Kitten food**: Kittens need kitten-specific food — higher calories and nutrients than adult cat food. **Scratching post**: Provide one from day one or your furniture will become the scratching post.
First Week Tips
- Keep the kitten in one room for the first 2-3 days
- Show them the litter box immediately — most kittens figure it out fast
- Handle your kitten gently and often to build trust
- Keep other pets separated at first and introduce gradually
- Schedule a vet visit within the first week
Common Mistakes
- Using clumping litter with very young kittens (non-clumping is safer under 3 months)
- Giving cow's milk — most cats are lactose intolerant
- Not providing vertical space — cats love to climb
- Skipping the scratching post and then being surprised when furniture gets destroyed
Your kitten's first week is about creating a safe, comfortable environment where they can explore at their own pace.