Excited to bring home your new kitten? Make sure that you are prepared for your new kitten’s arrival and that you have all the necessary supplies before bringing him or her home for the first time.

Below is a list of items to help you prepare for the arrival of your new kitten.

□ Kitten food. Make sure that the food you purchase is specifically designed for kittens and
    that it is the same or similar to what your kitten is currently used to eating. A change in a
    kitten’s diet can cause an upset stomach as well as vomiting and/or diarrhea. In the case 
    that you must change your kitten’s diet, be sure to make the change slowly so that his or 
    her stomach can become accustomed to the new food. Diet change is not recommended
    for at least one to six months.

□ Food and water dishes. Stainless steel is suggested as plastic dishes may harbor bacteria.

□ Kitty litter and a litter box. Clumping cat litter is not recommended for use with new
    kittens. A non-clumping litter is suggested (for example, try WC Cat Kitty Litter). It is 
    important to show your kitten where the litter box is and to place him or her in it in order
    to show them what it is for. One litter box per floor is recommended for homes with 
    multi-levels. 

□ A bed.

□ Toys. Kittens are like babies therefore it is important that their toys do not have moving or
    easily removable parts or strings. Items such as shoe laces, tinsel, lace, ribbon, yarn and
    thread are not safe for kittens. As well, any item that can be easily swallowed is not safe
    to have around your new kitten.

□ A collar and name tag. Identification information, including your pet’s name, your name,
    address and telephone number is important in case your pet gets lost or runs away.

□ A scratching post. A scratching post is needed in order to help prevent your kitten from
    scratching other things in your home such as furniture and carpet.

Other products such as grooming tools (a brush or comb and nail clippers) and cat treats (such as catnip) may be purchased as well.

In addition, a harness and leash as well as a cat carrier may be needed, especially if you plan on traveling with your pet. When purchasing a cat carrier keep in mind that your kitten will grow. Buy a carrier that will be big enough for your fully grown cat to be able to sit and stand upright and to be able to turn around.

Please consult the breeder, shelter or pet store for recommendations of other items you may need.

Image by One From RM