There’s nothing quite like the excitement of bringing home a new kitten. From the way their tiny paws move to the way their eyes lock onto yours and their little purrs fill the air – it’s completely heart-melting. From the time you choose your new kitten until their arrival at your home, there are a few preparation steps that you can take to make sure that the transition is as smooth as possible for your new pet.
From setting up a safe space at home for your kitten to choosing the right breed of kitten for your lifestyle, this checklist has you covered. Read through the list and tick off each item to ready yourself and your home for your precious little feline friend when they arrive.
Step 1: Choose the Right Breed for Your Home
Before buying any supplies for your home, the most important decision you must make is the type of cat you would like to get for your household. Different breeds of cats have different characteristics and personalities.
If you are looking for a cat that is calm and enjoys human companionship, one of the best breeds of cats to get for your home is Ragdolls. Ragdoll cats are known for their laid-back dispositions and love for their owners, earning them the nickname “puppy cats” due to the way that they follow their owners from one part of the house to the next.
Step 2: Kitten-Proof Your Home
Kittens are incredibly curious and will explore every corner of your home. Before they arrive, do a walk-through with fresh eyes and look for potential hazards.
Safety checklist:
- Secure loose electrical cords — tape them down or use cord covers
- Remove toxic plants — lilies, pothos, and aloe vera are harmful to cats
- Check for small gaps — behind appliances, under couches, inside recliner chairs
- Store cleaning products and medications — behind closed cabinet doors
- Keep toilet lids down — kittens can fall in
- Check windows and balconies — install fly screens or balcony netting
- Put away rubber bands, hair ties, and small objects — choking hazards
Step 3: Set Up a Dedicated Kitten Zone
When your kitten first arrives home, they’ll feel overwhelmed by all the new space in the house. Set up a smaller room for your kitten – perhaps their bedroom or a study – where they can settle in for the first few days at home prior to exploring the rest of the house. And make sure you pet proof the rest of the house before you let them explore.
Your kitten zone should include:
- A cosy cat bed or blanket — something with a warm, enclosed feel
- Litter tray — placed away from food and water
- Food and water bowls — ceramic or stainless steel are best
- A few toys — nothing too stimulating at first
- Scratching post — to redirect them away from furniture from day one
Step 4: Buy the Essential Supplies
Here’s a complete shopping list to have ready before your kitten arrives. You don’t need to spend a fortune — start with the basics and add more over time.
- Litter tray: At least one per cat, plus one extra. Covered trays offer privacy.
- Cat litter: Unscented clumping litter is ideal for most cats.
- Food & water bowls: Wide, shallow bowls reduce whisker fatigue.
- Kitten food: High-protein wet and dry food formulated for kittens.
- Cat carrier: Hard-sided carriers are safest for travel and vet visits.
- Scratching post: Tall enough for a full stretch — at least 60cm high.
- Cat bed: Enclosed or hooded styles feel more secure for kittens.
- Collar & ID tag: Breakaway collar for safety. Add your phone number.
- Microchipping: Required by law in most Australian states.
- Toys: Wand toys, crinkle balls, and puzzle feeders all work well.
- Grooming brush: Long-haired breeds like Ragdolls need regular brushing.
- Nail clippers: Start trimming early so they get used to it.
Step 5: Find a Vet Before Your Kitten Arrives
Don’t wait until there’s an emergency to find a vet. Research local clinics beforehand, check their hours, and book an initial health check for within the first week of your kitten coming home.
What to ask your vet at the first visit:
- Vaccinations — core vaccines cover feline herpesvirus, calicivirus, and panleukopenia
- Parasite treatment — flea, worm, and tick prevention schedule
- Desexing timeline — usually recommended around 4–6 months
- Diet advice — portion sizes, wet vs dry food recommendations
- Dental care — how to start brushing their teeth early
Step 6: Understand the First Few Days Home
Even the most confident kitten will need a few days to adjust. Here’s what to expect and how to help:
- They may hide at first — this is completely normal. Let them come to you.
- Keep the house quieter than usual for the first 48 hours.
- Introduce children and other pets slowly and calmly.
- Don’t force cuddles — let your kitten initiate contact.
- Make sure they know where the litter tray is as soon as they arrive.
- Watch for signs of stress: hiding, not eating, or excessive vocalising.
Within a week, most kittens will start showing their true personalities — playful, curious, and utterly loveable.
Step 7: Plan for Ongoing Care
Bringing a kitten home is just the beginning! Here are a few longer-term things to plan for:
- Pet insurance — consider taking out cover before any pre-existing conditions develop
- Annual vet check-ups — even healthy cats benefit from a yearly health assessment
- Regular grooming — especially for semi-longhaired breeds like Ragdolls
- Enrichment — rotate toys, add cat trees or window perches to keep them stimulated
- Socialisation — regular positive handling builds a confident, friendly cat
Final Thoughts
Bringing a kitten home is one of the most joyful things you can do for your family. However, there are a few things you can do to prepare for the arrival of your new feline friend. With the right setup, supplies, and breed for your lifestyle, your kitten will stay with you for years to come.
Take your time with each of these steps and do not worry about making it perfect on the first day. Kittens will entertain themselves and be forgiving of any issues you face during their time with you. Enjoy every moment!
