The New Kitten Checklist: Everything to Sort Before Day One

By Hannah Pryce · Published Aug 17, 2026 · 6 min read

In this guide

Set up a starter room
The shopping list
Kitten-proofing
First vet visit

Kittens are tiny, fearless, and endlessly curious — a combination that means they will find every gap behind the fridge and every dangling cable within hours of arriving.

A bit of preparation makes the transition easier for them and far less stressful for you.

Set up a starter room

Give your kitten one quiet room to begin with, containing food, water, a litter box, a bed, a scratching post, and a hiding spot. Once they are confidently using the litter box and exploring, gradually open up more of the home.

The shopping list

Kitten food — the same brand they were eating, at least to start
A low-sided litter box and unscented litter
A sturdy scratching post taller than the kitten at full stretch
Wand toys for interactive play (never let them play with string unsupervised)
A secure carrier for vet visits

Kitten-proofing

Tuck away electrical cables, secure blind cords, and keep toilet lids down. Remove toxic plants, especially lilies, which are extremely dangerous to cats. Check recliners and washing machines before using them.

First vet visit

Book a vet check within the first week or two. Your vet will advise on vaccinations, parasite control, microchipping, and when to neuter or spay.

This is general pet-care information, not veterinary advice. Every animal is different — if you are worried about your pet's health or behaviour, contact your veterinarian. In an emergency or a suspected poisoning, call your vet or an animal poison-control line immediately.

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