Kitten Care: Your First Week Guide

The first week with a new kitten is filled with wonder — and a few challenges. With the right preparation, you can make this transition smooth and joyful for both of you.

Before They Arrive — Prep Your Home: Set up a small, quiet room as their safe space. Include a litter box, food and water bowls, a cozy bed, and a few toys. Kittens can feel overwhelmed in large spaces initially.

Day 1 — Give Them Time: Don't try to handle your kitten too much on the first day. Let them explore their safe room at their own pace. Sit quietly on the floor and let them come to you.

Feeding: Kittens need to eat 3–4 times a day. Use high-quality kitten-specific food (not adult cat food — kittens need more protein and calories for growth). Fresh water should always be available.

Litter Training: Kittens learn fast. Place your kitten in the litter box after eating and napping. Most kittens instinctively understand what to do within days.

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Litter Training: Kittens learn fast. Place your kitten in the litter box after eating and napping. Most kittens instinctively understand what to do within days.

Handling and Socialisation: Once your kitten is comfortable, gently handle them daily — hold their paws, look in their ears and mouth. This early handling makes vet visits and grooming much easier as adults.

First Vet Visit: Schedule a vet appointment within the first week. They'll check for parasites, discuss vaccinations, and give your kitten a full health check.

Introducing to Other Pets: Keep the kitten in their safe room for the first few days and let resident pets sniff through the door gap. Gradual, supervised introductions prevent stress and fighting.

Sleep: Kittens sleep 16–20 hours a day. This is completely normal — they're growing rapidly. Provide a warm, cozy bed in a safe spot.