Bringing your new kitten home

Things you will need

Litter tray and litter (do not use clumping litter with kittens as they tend to eat it and it can cause digestive problems – the
tray should be scooped of waste twice a day and cleaned regularly), scratching post (unless you want them to use your
furniture!!) and toys i.e. little mice, wand toys, feathers toys, bed/blanket. It is best to feed them kitten food as it contains
the nutrients growing kittens need – wet or dry is your own choice, but a combination may be best.
 

Making sure your new kitten is safe

Kittens like to explore so make sure their environment is safe! Keep the toilet seat down, check washing machines before
you load them, take care of trailing electric cables, beware of open windows, some house plants are poisonous/check it out,
open/electric fires, electric cooking hobs etc.
 

The first day

Have a room ready with litter tray, food bowls, water and bed waiting for them. Remember it’s a whole new experience for
your little kitten. Let her explore her room alone so that she becomes comfortable with the new smell and sounds. Join your
kitten, sit on the floor with her and engage her in some play. When she’s ready to explore the house, never leave her
unattended with other pets or children. Introduce your kitten to other family members gradually and likewise, other pets.
 

Training your kitten

NEVER hit or shout at your kitten, she won’t understand and it will only make her fearful. If the kitten is on a surface you do
not want her on, distract her by throwing a toy nearby, clapping your hands or a firm ‘No’. Kittens learn by repetition, all
members of the family must keep up the same routine. She will learn!
 

Grooming and care

All kittens need vaccinations at 12 weeks (most have had these already) boosters are then required annually. Flea and worm
treatments are recommended once a year. Introduce your kitten to gentle grooming with a soft brush, most kittens like this.
Grooming should be done once a week and more often if the cat is long-haired to avoid the fur clumping. This can be a great
way of bonding with your kitten. If putting a collar on your kitten, ensure it is a safety collar (with snap open fastener) and
identity disc with the kitten’s name and your number. Very young kittens should not wear a collar.
 

Neutering and microchipping

ALL kittens should be neutered at six months and kept indoors until this is done. We recommend you get your kitten
microchipped at the same time. We also recommend you take out pet insurance for your new kitten, there are lots of
providers out there.
 
Most of all, ENJOY your new family member!!