Shopping list
- Kitten food (ask what your kitten is currently eating) and shallow food and water bowls
- Litter box and unscented litter
- A sturdy, tall scratching post and a cat tree
- A secure carrier for the journey home and vet visits
- A wide-toothed metal comb and nail clippers
- Soft bedding and a few toys, including a wand toy
Kitten-proofing
- Lilies are extremely toxic to cats — even pollen or vase water. Remove them completely.
- Check other houseplants for toxicity, and move cleaning products and medicines out of reach.
- Secure window screens and balcony doors.
- Tidy away cords, string, ribbon, rubber bands and hair ties, which can be swallowed.
- Keep toilet lids down, and check the washing machine and dryer before every use.
A safe room
Prepare one quiet room as a base for the first days, with everything your kitten needs. It makes the move far less overwhelming.
Other pets
Introduce resident pets gradually: start with scent swapping, then short supervised meetings. Never force an introduction.