Tiny Paws, Big Impact: Preparing for Your Kitten’s Arrival

Guest blog by Dr Emmanuel Fontaine, Scientific Communications Veterinarian at Royal Canin North America 

The magical moment of welcoming a new kitten into your home is an unforgettable experience. But as enchanting as this event may be, it requires careful planning and consideration. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the essentials of creating a purr-fect environment for your feline companion, from meeting their dietary needs to ensuring their comfort and well-being, empowering you with the knowledge you need to establish a harmonious home for your little furball. 

Essential Equipment for Your New Kitten 

Imagine setting the stage for a heartwarming scene, where your new kitten begins its lifelong adventure in your home. The first step to creating this picturesque setting involves gathering essential equipment to ensure your kitten feels comfortable, secure, and happy. 

The key players in this act are food and water bowls. Opt for stainless steel, as these durable and hygienic options will support your kitten’s wellbeing. Place the bowls in separate locations, far from the litter box, to respect the natural instincts of your feline friend. If your home spans multiple floors, enhance their accessibility by placing a set of bowls on each level. To further elevate their hydration experience, consider incorporating a water fountain, which not only promotes healthy drinking habits but also adds an aesthetically pleasing element to your home. 

Now that you’ve laid the foundation, it’s time to enhance the scene with cozy sleeping nooks for your kitten. Picture an assortment of pillows, covers, and baskets strategically placed in various corners, including elevated spots where they feel secure. This creative approach to bedding not only caters to their natural preferences but also adds a touch of charm to your living space. 

As the stage is set, you’ll be well-prepared to welcome your new kitten into a home that caters to their unique needs and desires, fostering a harmonious and nurturing environment for their growth and happiness. 

Creating a Comfortable Living Space 

Now let’s craft a nurturing and inviting living space that caters to your kitten’s instinctual desires for security and exploration. Just like a well-designed movie set, your home should be equipped with all the elements needed to help your kitten feel like the star they are. 

Begin by focusing on the importance of multiple beds, which serve as havens of comfort and security for your curious little explorer. Let your creativity run wild by using an array of pillows, covers, and baskets to create cozy spots throughout your home. By offering several high-up sleeping areas, you not only acknowledge your kitten’s natural inclination for safe perches but also provide them with vantage points to survey their surroundings. 

Next, take a moment to consider the concept of safe spaces. Just as humans need a sanctuary to retreat to when life gets overwhelming, your kitten also requires a dedicated area where they feel protected and relaxed. Designate a quiet room or corner as their haven, and gradually introduce them to other pets, ensuring a harmonious coexistence. 

Toys and Enrichment for Your Kitten 

Now, playtime takes centre stage. Much like a well-crafted screenplay, your kitten’s play sessions should be a blend of entertainment and education, encouraging their mental and physical growth. 

Playtime is not just a source of amusement; it’s an essential tool for learning, development, and bonding with you. By engaging with your kitten through play, you’ll be guiding them on a journey of discovery and nurturing a strong, lasting connection. 

To facilitate this, select toys specifically designed for kittens, which will cater to their unique needs and abilities. Consider investing in interactive toys that stimulate their minds and satisfy their innate hunting instincts. This combination of play and mental engagement creates an enriching environment that fosters a well-rounded and contented kitten. 

Incorporate scratching posts and cat trees into the scenery, providing your kitten with outlets for their natural scratching behaviours and saving your furniture and curtains in the process. By offering these features, you create a stimulating playground that satisfies your kitten’s desires for exploration and adventure. 

Litter Box Basics 

Begin by selecting the right litter box for your kitten. The size and design of the litter box must be well-suited to your kitten’s specific needs. Ensure it is large enough for them to use comfortably without making a mess. Offer both covered and non-covered options, allowing your kitten to express their preferences and feel more at ease. 

Next, consider the ideal locations for litter boxes within your home. Litter boxes should be strategically positioned in accessible and discreet areas. If your home has multiple floors, place at least one litter box on each level to facilitate easy access for your kitten. 

Lastly, adhere to the “one more than the number of cats” rule for litter boxes. This guideline ensures there is always a clean, available option for your kitten, promoting good hygiene and reducing territorial disputes. 

Nutrition and Feeding Your Kitten 

A well-balanced diet acts as the cornerstone for your kitten’s growth, promoting a strong immune system, healthy bones, and a shiny coat. By providing the right nutrients, you’ll be nourishing your kitten’s body and mind, empowering them to live a happy, healthy life. 

To select the best food for your feline star, follow your veterinarian or trusted professional’s recommendations and pay close attention to the nutrients. Choose from wet or dry food options specifically formulated for kittens, ensuring they receive the nutrients essential for their growth stage.  

Finally, establish a feeding routine and monitor portion sizes. Consistency in mealtime rituals will help your kitten feel secure and well-cared for while keeping their weight and growth on track. 

Welcoming a new kitten into your home is a magical and memorable experience that unfolds like a heartwarming tale. By following the guidance shared in this blog, you’ll be setting the stage for a beautiful, lifelong relationship with your feline companion. As the protagonist of their life story, your kitten will embark on a journey filled with love, growth, and adventure, with you as their guiding star. 

As you embrace this exciting new chapter, remember that your commitment, patience, and understanding will be instrumental in shaping your kitten’s life story. With your support, they will flourish and grow into a beloved family member, their life enriched by the love and care you provide. 

Emmanuel Fontaine graduated from the Toulouse Veterinary School in 2004, he continued his studies at the Alfort Veterinary School (Paris) as trainee Vet in the domestic carnivore unit of the Reproduction Department. From 2005 to 2011, he worked at the Centre d’Etude en Reproduction des Carnivores (CERCA) [Research Centre for Reproduction in Carnivores], a unit specializing in pet breeding assistance. Emmanuel Fontaine is also qualified at the European College for Animal Reproduction (ECAR) and completed his PhD in 2012 on the use of GnRH agonists in canines. From September 2011 to September 2018, he worked as Technical Services Veterinarian for the PRO team at Royal Canada. He then was in charge of Scientific Communication for the Americas until August 2022. He now works as Senior Scientific Communications Veterinarian for Royal Canin North America.