Bringing a kitten home: how to help them settle in

Moving to a new home is a big change for a kitten who's used to their mother and littermates. Cats Protection says some kittens adapt quickly, while others may take a few weeks to feel settled and safe. A little preparation and a lot of patience make a big difference.

Before your kitten arrives

Choose a sanctuary room

Cats Protection recommends setting up a small, quiet, escape-proof room where the door can be closed, away from busy parts of the home. Blue Cross says starting in one room also helps with litter training, because once the habit is strong your kitten will seek out the tray when they can roam further.

What to put in the room

• a comfortable bed in the quietest part of the room
• food and water bowls, placed apart from each other
• at least one litter tray, away from the food and water
• several hiding places, such as cardboard boxes
• a safe high spot, such as a shelf or suitable furniture
• a scratching post
• toys and space to play
• a blanket that smells of where they've come from, if possible

Kitten-proof the room

Blue Cross suggests blocking any small gaps your kitten could get stuck in, tidying away cables and closing and locking windows. PDSA also advises removing hazards or putting them safely out of reach.

Get the essentials ready

Cats Protection's checklist includes good-quality complete kitten food, a litter tray and litter, grooming tools, toys such as fishing rod toys, and a sturdy, well-ventilated cat carrier.

Bringing your kitten home

Travel with your kitten in a secure carrier. Cats Protection says to secure it with a seatbelt if you're travelling by car.

When you get home, take your kitten straight to their room. Put the carrier down, open the door and let them come out in their own time. Don't pull them out.

Once they've had a look around, Cats Protection suggests gently showing them where their litter tray, bowls and bed are.

The first few days

Cats Protection advises:

• letting your kitten approach you rather than picking them up straight away
• keeping handling gentle and brief
• letting them hide when they want to
• keeping noise and visitors to a minimum at first
• keeping their routine consistent
• giving them plenty of time to sleep

Blue Cross suggests sitting quietly in the room and letting your kitten hear your voice, for example by reading aloud.

PDSA advises using the same food and litter as the breeder or rescue at first, then changing gradually. Feed at the same times each day, as cats like consistency.

Battersea says don't worry if a new cat doesn't eat on the first day, as this can be normal when they're a little scared.

The first night

• Keep them company. Cats Protection says it's best not to leave a kitten alone until they have settled. A soft toy or low-volume radio may help when you're not in the room.
• Keep them warm. Blue Cross suggests a warm, not hot, water bottle under a blanket in the first few nights, to make up for the absence of their mother and littermates.

Letting your kitten explore

When your kitten is confident in their room, let them explore other rooms one at a time. Battersea suggests your cat goes back to their safe room at night while they're settling. Don't rush this. Some kittens are roaming the house within days, others take longer.

Meeting other pets

Wait until your kitten has settled before introducing other pets, and go slowly. Swap scents on cloths or bedding before they meet, and make sure your kitten can always move away, hide or get up high. Our guide to introducing a dog and a cat explains each step.

Vet checks, microchipping and going outside

• Vet check. PDSA advises getting your kitten checked by a vet soon after you bring them home.
• Microchipping. In England, cats must be microchipped and registered on an approved database before they reach 20 weeks old. This includes indoor cats. Owners can be fined up to £500 if they don't comply.
• Going outside. PDSA says make sure your kitten is fully vaccinated and neutered before they go outside. Neutering can be done from four months old.