There’s a lot to consider when it comes to welcoming a new kitten. You’ll need to be fully prepared before bringing it home.
Before adoption day, set up the “cat room” with everything it will need. Check the room for potential hazards such as fireplaces, or poisonous plants and make it as safe as possible. Remember that kittens can get into very small spaces. Make sure any hazardous substances are out of harm’s way. Keep windows and vent covers securely fastened, washer and dryer closed.
Every kitten has a unique personality; some are shy while others are confident. Whatever their character, this is potentially a stressful transition for kittens as they are leaving their mothers and siblings for the first time. On adoption day, expect your new kitten to be afraid, shy, or upset. They may cry or hide at first. You can help them feel comfortable in a few ways.
When you get home, place the carrier in a small, quiet room in the house away from traffic. Place fresh water, food, and a litter box near the entrance of the carrier. Open the door of the carrier and allow the kitten some time to come out willingly. If your kitten doesn’t immediately walk out to say hello - that’s okay! Cats can be easily overwhelmed in new spaces, so you’ll want to take things slowly and follow your kitten’s lead. Patience is key.
Sit on the floor and let the kitten come to you. Don’t force things, the kitten should always be the first one to initiate. If hiding, avoid trying to pull the it out of their safe spot. Use toys and treats to encourage the kitten to engage or play. If the kitten walks away, they’re letting you know it’s time for a break but you can hang out for a little while or check back later!
This is less overwhelming for your new kitten if you initially limit the available space by keeping him in a single room. Give him lots of time to become familiar with this room before giving him a tour of the entire house. Once your kitten shows interest in trying to leave the room, or is begging at the door to come out, they’re ready to explore the rest of the house! Gradually introduce him to rest of the one room at a time, and always stay with him when you bring him to other rooms.
Most kittens will adjust within one to two weeks. If you have a multiple-animal household, it may take several months for everyone to fully adjust.
Our kittens are already litter trained before adoption, but they are sensitive to litter box changes. Try to get the same litter and a similar box as they were trained in. If you need to make changes, wait until the kitten is settled in and then slowly adjust. Sudden changes could make them avoid the litter box altogether.
If you have children, you can introduce your kitten to them during this time. Kittens can be shy, so remind your kids to be calm and gentle with first introductions. As they get used to each other, the kitten will become more playful.
Meeting Other Pets
A new kitten can upset your other pets in the home. Take your time and slowly introduce your new pet. Waiting for a week might seem like a long time, but it’s especially important if you have another cat.
Cats are territorial and don’t like to share, which means your resident cat won’t like having a new kitten in the house or sharing any space or items. This can lead to behavior problems like urinating around the house.
Set both of your cats up for success by waiting and letting your kitten settle in. Also make sure your kitten has their own bed and litter box.
If you have a dog, take them for a walk before an introduction. This will help them be calm and help with a smoother transition. You can start by keeping them separated with a baby gate.
As they get familiar with each other, you can take the gate down. Keep your dog on a leash for the first physical introduction, though. This will stop them from chasing each other or getting too excited or hurt.
Troubleshooting
Your kitten/cat didn’t eat or use the litter box: This is a common reaction to stress. Try sitting with your kitten at mealtime. If your kitten is still not interested, try reducing traffic in and out of the room. They may need it to be more quiet during visits in order to feel safe, and they may need the same person to visit them so they become comfortable.
Cats should go no longer than 48 hours without eating or using the litter box. Please reach out to your veterinarian IMMEDIATELY if lack of appetite continues.
Your kitten is hissing or growling: Cats may hiss or swat when feeling scared or overwhelmed. Give your kitten some private time and make visits short and positive, leaving behind a few yummy snacks or a new toy.
Existing cat remains hostile to the kitten: This is an unlikely occurrence if competition for food and affection are minimized during the first few weeks.
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