New Kitten Checklist — Everything to Do in the First Month

Supplies to Have Before They Come Home

Litter box(es) — the standard rule is one per cat plus one extra, so start with at least two. Unscented, kitten-safe litter — scented litter can be off-putting and very young kittens sometimes mouth litter, so avoid types with added fragrance or excessive dust. Kitten food — look for "growth" or "all life stages" on the label. Ask the shelter/breeder what they were already eating. Food and water bowls — shallow, wide bowls are more comfortable for kittens and help avoid whisker fatigue. Carrier for vet visits — introduce it as a comfortable, familiar space early rather than only bringing it out for stressful trips. Scratching post or pad — giving an appropriate outlet early prevents furniture scratching from becoming a habit. Interactive toys (wand toys, small balls) — daily play sessions matter for both physical and behavioral development. A cozy bed or safe hiding spot — kittens (and cats generally) want a den-like retreat available at all times. Nail clippers sized for kittens — start handling paws early to make trims easier as they grow.

First Vet Visit & Health Setup

Schedule the first vet visit within the first week home, even if some vaccines were already given. Bring any prior vet or vaccine records from the breeder, shelter, or rescue. Ask about deworming and a fecal parasite test — intestinal parasites are extremely common in kittens. Test for FeLV/FIV if their status is unknown — especially important before introducing them to other cats in the home. Start flea/tick prevention as directed by your vet — even for strictly indoor kittens. Map out the core FVRCP vaccine series — typically every 3-4 weeks from 6 to 16 weeks old. Ask about spay/neuter timing for kittens — often earlier than most people expect.

Home Prep & First Month Routine

Remove lilies and other cat-toxic plants from the home — lilies are severely toxic and can be fatal even in small amounts. Secure cords, small chewable objects, and open windows/balconies — kittens are agile climbers and window screens should be secure. Set up vertical space (cat tree, shelves) if possible — cats feel more secure with elevated vantage points. Continue gentle handling and positive exposure to new sounds and people — kittens are especially impressionable in their first few months. Microchip your kitten — often done at the first vet visit or spay/neuter appointment.

Tools to Use Alongside This Checklist

Track the full vaccine schedule with due dates → Cat Vaccination Schedule Calculator

Budget the first year realistically → Annual Pet Cost Calculator

Estimate spay/neuter cost and best timing → Spay/Neuter Cost Calculator

Check if their growth is on track for their age → Kitten Weight Chart by Age

Frequently Asked Questions

How many litter boxes does a kitten need?

The standard guidance is one litter box per cat, plus one extra — so a single kitten still ideally has two boxes, especially in a multi-level home. Place boxes in quiet, easily accessible spots away from food and water.

What vaccines does a new kitten need first?

The core FVRCP vaccine (feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, panleukopenia) typically starts around 6-8 weeks and repeats every 3-4 weeks until 16 weeks old. Rabies is usually given as a single dose around 12-16 weeks. FeLV vaccination and testing is recommended especially if the kitten will have any outdoor access or live with other cats of unknown status.

What plants are toxic to kittens?

Lilies (including Easter, tiger, and daylilies) are extremely toxic to cats — even small amounts of pollen or a few licks of leaf can cause fatal kidney failure. Other common toxic plants include tulips, azaleas, sago palm, and pothos. When in doubt, keep unfamiliar plants out of reach entirely.

🐱 New Kitten Checklist