Getting a new baby cat is an exciting adventure! Of course, you’ll need to make sure that you’re properly stocked to bring the little fella (or lady) home. Some items are essentials, others that are fun to have, and some that you might not even think about. First things first, though, you should make sure that you take care of all of this before you get your new kitten home.
Unless you are adopting a kitten at an event and stocking up on the way home, you should take the time to plan. People rarely choose to get a new pet on a whim, though, and it’s something that you need to plan for. This will ensure that both you and your new family member have a smoother transition and get settled because it feels like home as soon as they arrive.
Baby Kittens Essentials
There are a few must-haves if you are getting a new kitten. When you choose to expand your family with a new pet, you’ll want to have this shopping list with you to ensure that you get everything that you need.
Food and Water Dishes
The first thing you’ll need is new food and water dishes. If you already have a cat and intend for them to share, that may have to happen later. First, your kitten needs to get comfortable. Secondly, if they’re eating kitten food, they will need a separate bowl from the adult cat food. You can choose durable plastic dishes with combination bowls for easy cleaning, or find a variety of designer and separated bowls if you want something a little more unique. The first thing you’ll need is new food and water dishes. If you already have a cat and intend for them to share, that may have to happen later. First of all, your kitten needs to get comfortable. Secondly, if they’re eating kitten food, they will need a separate bowl from the adult cat food. You can choose durable plastic dishes with combination bowls for easy cleaning, or find a variety of designer and separated bowls if you want something a little more unique.
If you have multiple cats with this new addition, consider upgrading to an auto-waterer or a community water bowl and use separate food bowls for everyone. You can do whatever works best for your cats, but having their own dish will certainly make your new kitten feel much more at home.
Litter Box
If you don’t have a cat and litter box at home yet, you’ll need one for your new kitten. You can check out our guide on how to choose the best litter box for an in-depth look, but we’ll cover the basics here. For starters, you need to choose a box that’s accessible for the cat. It needs to be big enough for them to turn around and have room to use the bathroom comfortably. It also has to have access that they can reach without a struggle.
The most common cause of bathroom issues with cats is that people chose the wrong litter box for their cat’s preferred bathroom habits. If you are just starting, get a standard pan and then get to know your cat over time to see if they need something different.
Grooming and Cleaning Tools
You’re going to need a brush, nail clippers, and other cat grooming items. Also, consider investing in a good cat litter box, litter scoop and pan liners if you aren’t using an auto-cleaning box. There are other cleaning supplies and accessories, including safe cleaning products for cats, that will need to be on your list so that you can be ready for the hard work just as much as you’re ready for the fun.
Also Read: How Much Does It Cost to Groom a Cat?
Collar and ID Tag
Some people don’t get ID tags for cats because they’re typically indoor pets. However, you can’t guarantee that your pet will never be lost or get out of the house. Therefore, it’s worth the investment (usually less than $20, even) to get a name tag made with your pet’s name and your contact information. When it comes to collars, choose whatever you’d like. For kittens, safety collars and quick-release styles are popular because they’re always getting into trouble. Some people will debate about collars, but again, you need to make sure your pet has a way to be identified and returned home if they get lost.
Bed
Cats like to sleep in comfy places, and they want to have their own place. Get them a bed or a cat house to allow them to get comfortable and have a place to relax and call their own. It may take them some time to adjust and use the bed, but it will be appreciated eventually. You can even add one of your shirts or an old towel to provide comforting scents to the cat so they want to sleep there.
Scratching Post and Toys
Kittens are playful and they need a lot of entertainment. If you don’t want them scratching up furniture, you’ll need to invest in a lot of good scratching toys. Consider posts, scratch pads, and other styles of scratchers to keep them busy and keep their nails in check. You will also find a host of other interactive and busy toys, as well as toys that are just plain fun. You want to encourage the kitten’s natural hunting instincts in play to get the best engagement and exercise their mental and physical abilities.
Some common toys enjoyed by cats include:
- Balls
- Catnip mice and other catnip toys
- Mazes and ball slides
- Feathers and wands with strings
- Milk rings (that’s right– you can find free toys, too)
Make sure that you read up on toys that are safe for cats before you give them anything you aren’t sure about.
Also Read: What Are The Best Cat Toys?
The Extras
You will also want to look at toys and treats, and consider upgrading to a custom collar or cute ID tag that might cost a little more money. This is your new companion — of course, you want to accessorize them and make sure they look their best. You might want to upgrade to a designer collar or get them a luxury cat condo. What about a cat tree or their very own window seat? There are so many great additions to your home that your cat will surely love.
Don’t sell yourself short when setting up your new kitten. Yes, get the essential kitten supplies. But also, take the time to see what kind of fun accessories and items you can find to help your cat feel more at home and like a part of the family.
