What should be prepared for the appearance of the house kitten?

Were you under the impression that little kittens require minimal preparation for their arrival in your home? Well, it might come as a surprise that they actually need a variety of items, and you'll need to visit the pet store with a rather extensive shopping list. To ensure you don't forget anything important but also don't buy unnecessary items, we've prepared a checklist for you on how to properly prepare for the arrival of kittens in your apartment.

Keep this list or even print it out; it will make the shopping process much easier. Below, we'll discuss the quality, safety, and construction requirements for each item.

The Essential Shopping List

• Carrier
• Cat feeder
• Food
• Toilet and filler for a cat tray
• A house or cat hammock
• Cat wall shelves
• Scratching post
• A few toys
• Brush for fur care

What to Consider When Choosing Items for Kittens?

Here are a few tips to help you select the most suitable items to prepare your apartment for the arrival of a little furry friend.

Size and Type of Carrier
 
When choosing a cat carrier for a small kitten, avoid getting one that's too big, as the kitten may feel unprotected and uncertain in a large carrier. If you prefer to buy only one carrier to use long-term, consider getting a cozy soft-sided carrier. These carriers often come with attachments for securing them in a car (transforming into a cat equivalent of a child car seat) and straps to keep your kitten inside. This is a great choice for car trips and vet visits.

Quality Feeding Equipment
 
Say no to plastic products for your pet. They are potentially hazardous not only to the environment but also to your furry companions. Instead, opt for items made of ceramic, acrylic glass, or metal. Pay attention to the possibility of attaching a wooden base to the pet food furniture to prevent it from sliding on the floor. Consider having two or three feeding bowls for different types of food and water. Make sure the bowls are wide enough for comfortable eating.

Also, select kitten food based on what the kitten is accustomed to eating. Ask the breeder what the kitten likes and which brands of food it accepts well. The diet may change later, but for the beginning, while the kitten is adapting to its new home, this is an important detail to consider.

Cat Scratching Posts, Wall Shelves, and Toys

A little furry friend can be like a hurricane in your home. Most kittens are hyperactive bundles of energy, darting from corner to corner, loving to climb to high places, and having a natural tendency to sharpen their tiny claws on anything they can find.

As your kitten approaches one year of age, they will become calmer. However, kittens still need active physical play. To prevent this from becoming a nuisance, consider investing in cat wall-mounted furniture, scratching posts, and toys. These items will save your sofa, chairs, and wallpaper from damage. Redirect your cat's energy to appropriate outlets like cat climbing wall sets and favorite toys instead of them ruining your valuable possessions.

A cat house or bed can also be placed on the wall or the floor. This will help your cat understand its personal space, serving as a sleeping and playing area.

Litter Box and Filling

Even if your kitten is already litter trained, introduce them to the new litter box. Show them where it's located, allowing them to become familiar with it. The choice of litter can vary according to your preference, such as silicon-based, compressed sawdust, or straw. Ensure it absorbs odors effectively, so your cat won't hesitate to use it.

Grooming Care

Choose a soft brush for grooming your cat's fur. You can use a grooming glove for this purpose as well. Brush your cat once a week or less frequently, depending on the shedding. During the shedding season, especially in spring, you may need to groom your cat almost daily to prevent loose fur from spreading everywhere. When bathing your cat, remember that human shampoo is not suitable and can cause allergic reactions in cats of all ages. Instead, opt for a specialized pet care product from your local pet store.

Safety Comes First

Kittens share some similarities with children, such as the tendency to climb onto windowsills, which can be dangerous if you have regular window screens and partially open windows. When a kitten comes into your home, it's best to install secure screens with sturdy fastenings capable of supporting the cat's weight. Never leave a window partially open in a room with a kitten, as the desire to explore the outside can lead to a dangerous situation. Often, kittens may get stuck between the window and the frame and cannot escape on their own.

Remember that pets are a responsibility, not just soft toys. They depend entirely on you, so be attentive, caring, and ready to face challenges during the adaptation period. In return, you'll gain a loyal companion who will give you its heart for a lifetime!