Adding a kitten to the family can give a pet a much-needed loving home and bring a spark of joy to a household. It’s not only a significant change for you but also the kitty, so make sure you take steps to keep them comfortable and safe while they adapt. Before you pick up the kitten or take them to the veterinary clinic for check-ups, make the following preparations.

Your Guide to Bringing a New Kitten Home

1. Remove Hazards

Kittens are curious and will be tempted to play with stray electrical wires, loose strings, and other items around your home, so before they arrive, remove any hazards you don’t want them touching. Store away food, and sweep crumbs and other debris from the floor, which could make them sick. To help your kitty adjust to the new space, you may want to consider restricting their access to a single room for a couple of days, such as an office or a bedroom.

2. Create a Safe Space

New environments can be overwhelming, so create a space where your kitten can retreat and be with their belongings. A veterinary clinic can recommend toys, treats, scratching posts, and other comfort items that’ll help your pet feel safe and at home. Cats can be territorial, so respect their space when they retreat to this room, which will prevent them from feeling stressed or afraid.

3. Train for the Litter box

Cats typically learn bathroom habits from their mothers and will already know to use a litter box when they arrive. Veterinary experts recommend you place yours in a secluded location to give your pet privacy, such as a bathroom or small room and shut the door with the cat in it for a day or so and they will learn to use it. Cats typically catch on quickly, and when the litter box is put in a secluded place and by placing the kittens in the litter box a few times, they will find it on their own. If the box in the home is relocated, they will need to be brought to it so they know where is was relocated to. Veterinarians suggest that when bringing a kitten into a new home with already familiarized cats, there should be one litter box per number of cats in your house. For example, if there are 2 cats in the home, there should be 3 litter boxes. 

If you need pet vaccinations, exams, or have questions about your new furry friend, visit Cedarknoll Animal Hospital in Montgomery, NY. From wellness checkups and diagnostic services to dental care and grooming, this veterinary clinic offers everything you need to keep your pet happy and healthy. Learn more about their services online, or call (845) 361-5404 to schedule an appointment.