Check list for your new Kitten

A safe haven – A bed, a box or a nook – cats like small spaces and need a space of their own that they can retreat to. You can even use their cat carrier which will help desensitise the experience when they come to the vet. There is merit in having a day bed and a night bed as cats tend to follow the sun!

Cat Carrier – As owners you need to have a safe transportation method when taking your cat anywhere. Although the market is saturated with cat carriers, we recommend soft cat carriers that open from the top, or hard carriers that un-clip from the middle so the top half comes off. These help provide a less traumatic experience for your cat when the vet has to take them out of the carrier.

Towel & blanket – Having a dedicated towel & blanket for your cat provides them more comfort when having to take them anywhere. The towel should live in the bottom of the cat carrier, and the blanket is for draping the carrier to create a safe dark nook for them inside the carrier.

Two Bowls – One bowl dedicated to your kittens food and another for their water. The water bowl should be bigger than their food bowl and in another area as some cats don’t like to drink where they eat.

Kitty litter tray, tray liners and kitty litter – These are essential when house training your cat to go to the toilet inside. Knowing which litter tray and kitty litter to use is hard to define, as some cats don’t like a big lip on the tray, some may not like the litter you use and some prefer 2 trays. The key is to try a few and not to buy in excess until you know which one your cat prefers!

Scratching post – Cats have a natural need to claw things, better it be scratching a post than your furniture! Some cats prefer to claw vertically where a post is preferred, other horizontally where a scratch mat/rug comes in handy.

Toys – Cats love to play at all hours of the day, having toys there will keep them entertained whilst also having them practice their natural instincts. Things such as boxes, scrunched up foil or paper can be a hit.

Collar & ID tag– In case your kitten goes on an adventure, it’s recommended they have a collar and ID tag with your contact phone number/s in case they are found.

Brush – Depending on the coat, cats may need regular brushing to help them groom themselves. Making brushing a regular part of the day will not only help your kitten get used to the routine and cement the habit with yourself, but it’s a great bonding experience for you both.

UrineOff/ Stain Neutraliser – Useful in removing the stain and odour if there is an accident in your household, and it can be used on all surfaces. If there is an accident, don’t clean it up with any products containing ammonia as it smells like cat wee to cats!