Bringing a new kitten home is an exciting time, but there’s also a lot to consider. Here are some vital tips for introducing your kitten to your home that will help to create the purr-fect start for both of you.
Preparation
Your new kitten will probably soon choose a favourite spot for themselves but it’s a good idea to pick a dedicated space for your new kitten before they arrive. Create a safe and comfortable area with essentials such as food and water bowls, a litter tray, toys, and a cosy bed for your kitten to curl up in.
Ideally, pick somewhere away from busy walkways and the hustle and bustle of daily life, but somewhere that’s easy for you to keep an eye on your new arrival. You’ll also need to kitten-proof the environment ahead of bringing your new pet home. Identify and remove any potential hazards such as toxic plants, trailing electrical wires, or small objects that a curious kitten might swallow.
Gradual Introduction
Your new kitten is likely to find the experience of coming home an overwhelming one to begin with. Slowly introduce them to the different rooms of your home, allowing the kitten to explore and get used to one area at a time.
You can familiarise your kitten with different scents by using blankets or towels to help it get used to different family members, places and pets. You can also do this in reverse, to help other pets get used to the scent of the new kitten before you make introductions.
Initial Interactions
Always approach your kitten with calm and slow movements and avoid sudden gestures or loud noises that will startle it. Give your kitten space and time to get used to you and their new home, and allow them to come to you in their own time, as this will help to build trust. Once your kitten has settled in, you can introduce regular play sessions to keep them entertained and help build the bond between you.
Creating a Safe Environment
Cats are naturally territorial creatures, and kittens need to feel safe, so providing hiding spots where your kitten can retreat if they’re feeling scared or overwhelmed is essential. Cats also love to climb so make the most of vertical space in your home using cat trees or cat-safe shelving for your kitten to scale and survey their new kingdom!
Monitoring Health and Wellbeing
Your new kitten should have a thorough health check soon after you bring them home. You’ll also need to book in any vaccinations and routine health treatments, such as neutering or worming. Make sure that your new kitten’s health needs are covered by taking out cat insurance.
Monitor your kitten for any signs of stress or illness. Your kitten’s day-to-day behaviours such as how much they eat and drink, how often they use their litter tray and how they act, can tell you a lot about their health and overall well-being.