In this article
DON’TS
Don’t separate your kitten too early from their mother
Kittens learn important social and survival skills from their mother and littermates. Separating them too early can lead to behavioral issues and slow their development. It’s best to keep mom and kittens together until the kittens are 13-15 weeks old so you end up with well-adjusted furballs.
Don’t constantly pick up your kitten or hold them against their will.
Most cats naturally don’t like being picked up, and kittens especially need to feel like they have some control over what’s going on around them to feel confident. Forcing them to be held can make them scared or not want to be around people.
Don’t use your hands, fingers, or toes as kitten toys
Encouraging your kitten to swipe at or bite your hands or toes can lead to serious behavioral issues in adult cats. While it may be cute when a kitten tries to catch and gnaw your fingers, it won’t be so cute anymore when your adult cat sinks their teeth into your hands or ankles, even though they mean no harm and just want to play.
Don’t punish your kitten when they do something wrong
Punishing your kitten just makes them scared and confused instead of teaching them what to do. Instead, rewards and praise work way better for training and building trust. Better get a bag of treats ready!
Don’t skip vet visits or vaccines
Regular vet checkups help catch health issues early, and vaccines are super important to protect your kitten from getting sick. Your vet will be able to tell you the right time for your little furball to get each vaccine.
Don’t introduce your kitten to other pets right away
When they arrive at your home, kittens need some time to adjust. Jumping straight into meeting other pets will stress your kitten out, and potentially cause fights. Instead, follow our step-by-step instructions for a successful introduction to any other pets or kids.
Don’t ignore signs of illness or lethargy
Kittens can get sick pretty fast, so it’s a good idea to keep an eye on their overall health. Even small changes in how they act might mean something’s up, and if you’re ever unsure, just give your vet a quick call.
Don’t feed your kitten cow’s milk
Most cats are lactose intolerant and can’t properly digest cow’s milk, which can cause an upset stomach or diarrhea. For young kittens, cow’s milk is even worse because it lacks the essential nutrients they get from their mother’s milk. So, it’s best to stick to high-quality food made specifically for kittens.
Don’t suddenly change your kitten’s daily food
Abrupt changes to your kitten’s diet can severely upset their tummy. Change their food little by little over a few days to keep the little one comfortable. Learn how to do so in our specialized article.
Don’t let your kitten roam outdoors too soon
The world can be a dangerous place for young kittens, as they’re easy targets for larger predators. In addition, a kitten you’ve just brought home might not find its way back if allowed outside right away. Keep your kitten indoors for at least three weeks after bringing them home to help ensure they’ll return safely once they start exploring outdoors.
DO’S
Do give your kitten a safe, quiet space
Setting up a separate kitten room for your little furball to help them settle into their new home is a great way to prevent overstimulation or anxiety. After about a week, you can allow your kitten to gradually explore the rest of the house.
Do feed your kitten the right diet
Kittens need special kitten food packed with the nutrients that help them grow strong and healthy. The right diet keeps their bones, organs, and energy in tip-top shape. Always choose food formulated specifically for kittens until your kitty cat turns one year old.
Do provide fresh water at all times
Kittens need to stay hydrated, so make sure clean water is always available. As kittens are intrigued by running water, consider getting a cat drinking fountain. Even adult cats have been proven to drink more when provided with a fountain compared to a drinking bowl!
Do set up an easy-to-access litter box
Keep the litter box nearby and simple to use so your kitten learns good bathroom habits. Make sure the entrance is low enough for the kitten to get in on their own. Also, keep the box clean as it makes kittens more likely to use it consistently.
Do play with your kitten daily
Daily play helps burn off energy and keeps your kitten from getting bored. Playtime also a fun way to bond and help your kitten grow into a strong and confident cat.
Do get your kitten scratching posts and boards
Scratching is totally natural and keeps kittens’ claws healthy. Give your cat various surfaces to scratch, because if you don’t, your new furry friend will likely start using your furniture. Learn how to stop this behavior in our dedicated blog post.
Do keep dangerous items out of reach
Kittens are curious and might chew or swallow things they shouldn’t. Put hazards away to keep them safe while they explore. Want to make sure you don’t miss anything? Check our article on kittenproofing your home.
Do provide spaces for you kitten to hide away in peace
Little enclosed spaces such as cardboard boxes make kittens feel safe and relaxed. This makes them perfect for resting and unwinding after playtime or exploration. Just make sure your little one doesn’t crawl into unsafe spots like the washing machine or dryer.
Do introduce brushing
Even though kittens don’t shed much at first, brushing them early on in life helps them get used to it, making these sessions much easier as they grow. The same goes for nail trimming and teeth brushing: starting young makes these routines less stressful later on.
Do provide a cat tree
Kittens love climbing and perching, and vertical spaces like cat trees give them exercise, confidence, and a secure spot to watch the world. Cat trees also allow your kitten to explore and gives them a safe place to escape if they feel nervous or overstimulated.
