First Kitten? Here’s What to Do!
Bringing a New Kitten Home: A Joyful Guide to the First Few Days
Bringing a new kitten into your home is an experience brimming with purrs, playful leaps, and unforgettable first snuggles. But amidst all the excitement, it's normal to feel a little overwhelmed. Whether you're a first-time cat parent or adding to your feline family, this guide will help you create a welcoming space and give your kitten the best possible start.
1. Create a Safe, Cozy Space
Before your kitten even steps a paw into their new kingdom, set up a dedicated, quiet zone where they can feel safe and adjust gradually. This could be a spare room, bathroom, or even a large playpen in a calm corner of your home. Equip it with must-haves: a comfy bed, food and water bowls, a litter box (placed far from the food area), a scratching post, and a few age-appropriate toys.
Kitten-proofing is key: tuck away electrical cords, remove small objects they could swallow, and make sure windows and balconies are secure. Block off narrow hiding spots behind appliances or furniture where they could get stuck. The goal is to create a space where your kitten feels protected but still has room to stretch, explore, and begin bonding with you.
2. Let Them Explore at Their Own Pace
When your kitten arrives, carry their carrier straight to their designated space. Open the door and allow them to come out on their own terms. Resist the urge to pull them out—they might need minutes or even hours to feel brave enough to step into the unknown.
Spend time in the room without forcing interaction. Sit quietly with a book, scroll your phone, or talk softly to help them get used to your presence and voice. Use treats or toys to entice them gently. Some kittens will bounce out full of curiosity, while others may hide for several days. That’s okay—patience and calm energy go a long way in building trust.
3. Feed for Growth & Hydration
Kittens are growing fast and need frequent, nutrient-rich meals to thrive. Stick to the same food they were previously eating during their first week at home to avoid stomach upsets. Gradually transition to your preferred high-quality kitten food over 7–10 days by mixing increasing amounts with the old food.
Offer three to four small meals daily, and ensure clean, fresh water is always available. Many cats prefer running water, so consider getting a pet water fountain—it can help encourage hydration and reduce the risk of urinary issues later in life.
4. Start the Vet Journey
Your kitten’s first vet visit should happen within 3–5 days after coming home. Bring along any adoption or health records you received. The vet will conduct a thorough check-up, recommend a vaccination schedule, administer deworming, and discuss microchipping and sterilisation timelines.
This is also a great opportunity to ask about diet, litter habits, grooming needs, and flea or tick preventatives. Choose a vet you feel comfortable with—you'll be visiting them regularly, especially in the first year. Bringing treats along can help your kitten associate the vet with positive experiences.
5. Set Up Play + Learning
Kittens are born to play—it’s how they learn, bond, and burn energy. Provide a variety of safe toys like feather wands, soft plushies, crinkle balls, and puzzle feeders to stimulate their little hunter instincts. Rotate toys daily to keep things exciting.
Avoid rough play using your hands or feet—it may seem cute now, but it can lead to biting or scratching habits later on. Instead, encourage play sessions with toys and end each session with a treat or gentle petting to reinforce good behavior. Check out interactive toys from trusted brands like KONG in our shop to keep your kitten active and entertained.
6. Introduce People & Pets Slowly
Give family members quiet time with the kitten instead of a full-on tumble fest. Introduce them gradually (using scent swapping or gates) to avoid stress.
7. Support Healthy Behavior
Place a scratching post nearby to prevent furniture clawing. Keep grooming tools and a nail trimmer handy for early training. Offer positive reinforcements with praise and treats when they use it.
8. Build a Routine
Kittens thrive with consistency—designate feeding times, play sessions, and quiet naps. This helps them feel secure and understand household rhythms.
9. Add Quality B2K Products!!
Here are some great B2K picks to pamper your kitten:
Kit Cat Dry & Grain-Free Kibble – Perfect balance for kitten growth
Absolute Bites Air-Dried Treats – High value reward for training
Altimate Pet Odor Deodorizer Spray – Keeps litter area fresh
10. Be Patient & Enjoy the Process
Most kittens settle in within weeks, not days. Expect hiding, a few hiccups, and lots of adorable mischief. With gentle care, play, and affection, your little fluffball will soon feel right at home.
