It’s an exciting time to bring home a new kitten but do remember that it’s a huge change for them. If you think about it, they’ve had to leave their home, their brothers and sisters as well as their mum… that’s lot to happen to a little kitten in a short time.
Homework – before you bring them home
It is key to do your homework and be fully prepared for your new arrival. Make sure you have fully kitten proofed your house along with a space or a room that contains everything they will need for their beginning with you including food, bowls, litter tray and toys. You may need to consider purchasing a cat carrier in order to bring your new kitten home as well as any food that the kitten may already be used to eating. At this stage it also a good idea to make your first appointment with your Vet for an initial health check.
Home time
Make sure when you bring them home, it is when it is quiet, with no visitors and interruptions. A gentle introduction into their new home will lead to them being settled in more quickly. In the first few days and weeks you will need to establish a routine with your new kitten which should include introducing them to all the family members as well as other pets and familiarising them with your Vet.
First night
A new kitten is bound to be anxious in their new home and will almost certainly cry in the first 2 to 3 nights. You can help them settle more quickly by providing them with a nice, comfortable bed and/or blanket that feels warm and safe. Make sure they have access to water, food and their litter tray. Kittens grow fast and need a lot of sleep, sometimes up to as much as 20 hours a day, so they need to feel safe and secure to relax and build on those zzzzzzzzzz.
Food
A kitten may not eat very much when they first come to your home but that is due to the stress of moving from the mum and siblings will stop their appetite will return as soon as they feel settled. Cats tend to eat little and often.
With anything that seems unusual to you and is of concern, do not hesitate to contact your Vet for further advice.