Bringing Home Your First Kitten – How to Prepare Your Home and What You’ll Need
Bringing home a kitten is one of the most exciting (and adorable) experiences you'll ever have. Whether you’re adopting from a shelter or bringing home a new furry friend from a breeder, preparation is key to giving your kitten a safe, comfortable start in their new home.
Here’s a guide to help you get ready—with everything you’ll need to welcome your new kitten with open arms (and plenty of treats).
Kitten-Proof Your Home
Kittens are curious explorers, and that means they’ll want to check out every corner of your home. To keep them safe:
- Tuck away electrical cords.
- Secure or remove toxic plants (like lilies).
- Store away small objects they could swallow.
- Close off any tiny nooks where they could get stuck.
Think of it as baby-proofing—but for a fluffier baby.
Set Up a Cozy, Safe Space
The first few days can be overwhelming for a kitten. Give them a quiet, enclosed space to get used to their new surroundings. Sometimes a bathroom or closet can be a good choice for those first few days. Then slowly introduce them into other areas of your home. For their safe space consider including:
- A comfy pet bed
- A litter box
- Food and water bowls
- A couple of toys and a scratching post
Stock Up on Essentials
Here’s your new kitten checklist:
- Litter box & litter
- Scratching post or pad
- Food & water bowls
- Toys for playtime
- Comfy bed or blanket
- Kitten grooming kit
- Flea prevention (vet-approved)
- Collar with ID tag or AirTag
Need help getting started? Check out our New Kitten Starter Collection for all the essentials in one place!
Schedule Your First Vet Visit
Schedule a check-up within the first week. Your vet will guide you on vaccinations, deworming, microchipping, pet insurance and more. It’s also a great time to ask about nutrition and long-term care.
Give Them Time to Adjust
Every kitten is different. Some may be snuggly right away, others may take a few days to warm up. Be patient, speak gently, when meeting their eye blink slowly and let them come to you on their terms.
Welcoming a kitten is an exciting time for the whole family and a start of a beautiful friendship. With the right setup and a little patience, your new fur baby will be purring in no time.