Bringing home a new kitten takes a wee bit of preparation

When you choose to bring a kitten into your life, you are making a long-term commitment to your family and your pet. Our favorite place to find a kitten is the local animal shelter. During the spring, shelters are usually overwhelmed with kittens needing a good home.

Bringing a kitten home is a very special time for a family. It’s great to prepare a weekend welcome, so that the new kitten can learn to trust and depend on you over a relaxed period of time. Before the homecoming, though, you’ll want to be sure to prepare. It’s a good idea to “kitten-proof” the areas to which your new arrival will have access. Be alert for small objects the kitten might put in its mouth, as well as any loose strings, yarn or dangling objects. You will need to provide a safe area for it to stay when not being supervised (kittens are often known to curl up in laundry baskets, blankets and boxes, or simply “disappear” into almost invisible openings in kitchens or other places and not re-emerge for hours. Knowing where your kitten is will save hours of frantic search time).

Your new kitty will definitely need a litter box, as well as a bed, some toys, and a carefully chosen pet food. You’ll also need a comb and brush, along with some easy-to-clean food and water bowls.

If you already have a cat at your house, slow and supervised introductions are best. One method is to place the kitten in a large carrier or crate and let the “senior” cat approach and get used to the kitten’s presence. It’s best not to leave your new kitten alone with the older cat, however, until you’re sure they are compatible.

Some dogs relate well to cats and kittens right from the start and others need a bit of warming up time. Again, you shouldn’t leave a new kitten alone with your dog until he has been proven to be kitten-friendly (which includes not playing too roughly or picking the kitten up in his mouth).

As soon as possible, schedule a checkup and a vaccine schedule, and let the veterinarian get to know your new family member. (If your vet does not offer emergency services, it's advisable to keep the number of the nearest emergency animal clinic on hand.)