Welcoming a new cat at home

The arrival of a cat at home is a happy event for the whole family, but it also means a big change for the kitten. It's important to prepare everything in advance so that the pet's shock is lessened and it can adapt easily. 

Finding out everything you need to know before your kitten arrives

Before your new four-legged friend arrives, it's important to find out what your breeder has to say so that you can prepare everything your cat will need. 

We advise you to find your vet before the kitten arrives. You can then ask for advice and choose someone you trust. 

Things to consider when choosing your vet

Choosing a vet to look after your pet's health can be difficult. Here are the three criteria to consider: 

• Location: Your vet's office should be as close to your home as possible
• The practice: You should choose a place that you trust, that is clean and professional
• The care: Check that your vet is open for emergencies, especially at weekends 

Buying the equipment your cat will need  

As we explained in our article: How to promote your cat's well-being in a flat? Your cat needs four different living spaces to thrive in its environment. Each of these areas should be designed to meet your cat's needs and well-being.

Setting up your pet's eating area

In order to choose the most suitable kibble for your kitten, depending on its age and breed, we advise you to ask the cattery or your vet for advice. 

You should also buy two bowls for food and water and place them in a space reserved for them.

Your cat's resting place

When your kitten arrives in her new home, we advise you to first observe the place where she naturally goes to rest. Once you've checked that it's safe for her and that she can rest there without being disturbed, you can set it up with a comfortable cat bed. 

Kitten hygiene

A litter box is an essential purchase when adopting a cat. You can ask your breeder for advice on choosing it. 

For your pet's well-being, the litter box should be cleaned regularly and located as far away as possible from its eating area. 

Give your cat something to play with

In order to grow up healthy and happy, your kitten needs to let off steam and play whenever she feels like it. Of course, you can buy your kitten small toys or a handmade cat tree. 

A cat tree not only gives your kitten a chance to play, but also helps it to gain confidence, as the feeling of height gives it a sense of security. 

5 tips to make your home safe before a kitten arrives 

1. check the toxicity of what is in your home

Some houseplants are toxic to pets, so it's important to check this before your cat arrives so you can remove them. Also, keep your food out of your pet's reach as it could ingest a food that is toxic to them, such as chocolate or onions. The same should be done with toxic substances such as household products. 

2. close the bins

Your cat is an adventurer and loves to discover new places. To keep your cat safe, remember to close the lid of the rubbish bin and toilet so that it cannot fall in. 

3. secure potential hiding places for your kitten

Cats like to hide and sneak into small places where they can observe without being seen. Before your pet arrives, check out potential hiding places and make sure they are safe. 

4. protect electrical cables and plugs

Consider hiding electrical cables and sockets by covering them to prevent your kitten from biting them and injuring herself. 

5. store small items

Before your kitten arrives, it's very important to put away any small objects she might ingest. Also check that there are no plastic bags or objects that could be dangerous for your cat.