New Kitten Checklist: What You Really Need
Getting a new Fluffy Friend is such an exciting time – but have you prepared your new kitten checklist?
Before you take your new kitten home, you need a solid checklist to make sure you're ready.
This handy new kitten checklist covers all the essential items, safety tips, and prep work to help your new kitty feel safe and happy in their new home.
From food bowls to vet visits, we'll walk you through everything you need to know to become awesome cat parents.
We’re here to help your new addition have a great start in life in the best way possible!
Table of Contents
New Kitten Checklist
Click the image below to open the downloadable PDF.
List 1: The Absolute Essentials
Let's start with the must-have items that every new pet needs right away.
These kitten essentials will keep your furry friend fed, hydrated, and comfortable from day one.
1. Food and Water Setup
Your new kitty needs proper food and water stations.
Get separate food bowls and water bowls - cats like their eating and drinking areas apart.
Stainless steel bowls are a great way to go because they're easy to clean.
They also don't hold onto smells like plastic bowls can.
Pro Tip:
Adjustable bowls are purr-fect for growing kittens!
You can make them taller as your kitty gets bigger.
This helps your cat eat more comfortably and can even help with tummy troubles.
Big cat breeds like Maine Coons, Savannahs, and Ragdolls can grow as tall as some medium-sized dogs—so a bowl that grows with them is super handy!
For kitten food, ask your local vet what they recommend.
Most kitties need special kitten food that's different from adult cat food.
Remember that little ones need more calories and nutrients to grow big and strong.
You'll want both wet food and dry food options.
Here's a good idea: set up a water fountain if you can!
Cats love fresh, moving water, and it encourages them to drink more, which is super important for the health of your kitten.
2. The Perfect Sleeping Spot
Every new cat needs a cozy bed where they can feel safe and sound.
Kittens are tiny, and the world can feel really big and scary—especially in a new home.
That’s why it’s super important to give them a soft, warm spot to snuggle up and feel protected.
Our anxiety relieving cat bed is perfect for this!
It’s soft like a cloud, with raised sides that make kittens feel safe—like they’re cuddled up with their mama.
Your kitty will love having their own special spot to curl up, nap, and dream of tasty treats and toy mice!
3. Litter Box Basics
You'll need at least one litter box (maybe two if you have a big house).
Get kitten litter that's safe for young cats - some regular cat litter can be too dusty for little lungs.
Don't forget a litter mat to catch any bits that get tracked out.
Most cats figure out the litter tray pretty quickly, so don't stress too much about this one!
List 2: A Safe Place – Kitten-Proofing Musts
Before your new family member arrives, you need to make your house kitten-safe.
Trust us, kittens are like tiny, furry tornadoes with sharp claws!
1. Securing Your Space
Create a safe room where your kitten can stay for the first few days.
This helps them get used to their new surroundings without feeling overwhelmed.
Remove anything breakable, toxic plants, or small objects they might swallow.
Block off high places that might be dangerous, and secure any loose wires or cords.
Kittens love to chew on things, and electrical cords are definitely not good snacks!
Cardboard boxes make great temporary barriers and hiding spots.
Plus, most cats go crazy for cardboard boxes anyway - it's like getting a free cat toy!
2. Protecting Your Furniture
Our couch covers are super handy!
These covers protect your furniture from scratching and any little accidents while your kitten learns the house rules.
They're easy to wash and look great too.
Get a scratching post or cat tree right away.
This gives your kitten a good place to scratch and climb, which is natural cat behavior.
It's much better than letting them practice on your couch!
Quick Kitten-Proofing Checklist:
- Hide cords, rubber bands, and stringy toys when not in use
- Keep cleaning supplies locked away
- Remove houseplants that are toxic to cats
- Use baby gates or closed doors to block off unsafe rooms
- Secure bookshelves and breakables
Related: How To Prepare When Adopting a Senior Cat
List 3: New Kitten Vet Checklist – What to Ask and Expect
Finding a good local vet is one of the most important things you can do for your new pet.
Here's what you need to know about veterinary care for kittens.
1. First Vet Visit Essentials
Schedule a vet visit within the first week of bringing your kitten home.
Bring any medical records you have, and don't forget to get their contact information for emergencies.
Ask about the vaccination schedule.
Kittens need several shots to protect against things like feline distemper and feline leukemia.
Your vet will set up a plan based on your kitten's age and health.
2. Health Questions to Ask
Talk to your vet about pet insurance - it's a great way to manage costs if health issues come up later.
Ask about spaying or neutering, dental care, and what signs to watch for that might mean health problems.
If you're planning to have an indoor cat or let them be outdoor cats, discuss the differences with your vet.
Indoor cats have different needs than cats that go outside.
Don't forget to ask about heartworm prevention and other regular care your kitten will need as they grow up.
If your kitten ever needs meds and you wonder how do you give an uncooperative cat liquid medicine?, your vet can show you the safest and least stressful techniques to make it easier.
Quick Recap: Helpful questions for your vet:
- What vaccines does my kitten need?
- When should I spay/neuter?
- How do I prevent fleas and worms?
- Is my kitten a healthy weight?
- Should I consider microchipping?
List 4: Everyday Care & Clean-Up
Taking care of a kitten isn't just about the big stuff - it's the daily routine that really matters for your feline friend's health and happiness.
1. Grooming Basics
Even short-haired kittens enjoy regular grooming.
Get a slicker brush for regular brushing sessions - it's a great way to bond with your new kitty and keep their coat in good condition.
You'll also need nail clippers or nail trimmers for those sharp claws.
Most kittens need their nails trimmed every couple of weeks.
If your kitten has an allergic reaction to grooming products, stop using them and call your vet.
2. Daily Routine Setup
Cats love a consistent schedule, so try to feed your kitten at the same times each day.
This helps with good behavior and makes house training easier.
Keep their food and water dishes clean, and scoop the litter box daily.
Fresh water should always be available - dehydration can cause serious health problems.
3. Mental Stimulation and Play
Your kitten needs mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy.
Get a variety of toys including catnip toys, balls, and interactive toys.
Even simple things work great - many cats prefer cardboard boxes and paper bags to expensive toys!
Cat toys that encourage your kitten to hunt and pounce are perfect for keeping them entertained.
This is especially important for indoor cats that don't get to hunt real prey.
Related: Black Cat Adoption: From Myths to Benefits
List 5: Nice-to-Haves That Make Life Easier
Once you've got the essentials covered, these extras can make life with your new kitty even better.
1. Travel and Transport
A good cat travel carrier is essential for vet visits.
Look for one that's sturdy and has good ventilation.
Your kitten should be able to stand up and turn around inside.
Make sure your kitten has an ID tag with your phone number, just in case they ever get lost.
Microchipping is also a good option that your vet can do.
2. Extra Comfort Items
Consider getting vertical spaces like shelves or a tall cat tree.
Cats love high places where they can observe their territory and feel safe.
Food puzzle toys are a great way to make mealtime more interesting and provide mental stimulation
This is especially helpful for kittens that eat too fast.
Cat treats are handy for training and bonding, but don't go overboard - too many treats can upset their tummy or lead to weight gain.
3. Making Life Easier for Cat Parents
A second litter box is often worth it, especially in bigger houses.
The general rule is one box per cat, plus one extra.
Consider pet supplies that make cleanup easier.
Think about odor-controlling litter and easy-to-wash feeding mats.
If you have other pets, take time to introduce them slowly.
Senior cats especially need time to adjust to a new addition to the family.
Related: 10 Signs Your Cat Is Accepting the New Kitten
Ready for Your New Adventure!
Bringing home a new kitten is such an exciting time, and now you're prepared for success!
Remember, every kitten is different and has unique needs, so don't worry if your furry friend doesn't follow the "rules" exactly.
The most important thing is giving your new family member lots of love, patience, and time to adjust to their new home
Before you know it, you'll have a happy, healthy cat that's perfectly at home with your family.
Keep this new kitten checklist handy for the first few weeks - you might be surprised how often you refer to it!
And remember, when in doubt, call your vet.
They're always happy to help new cat parents navigate this exciting journey.
Your feline friend is lucky to have such caring cat parents who want to do everything right.
Enjoy every moment of this special time with your new kitty!
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