New Kitten Checklist: Everything You Need Before Day One
A kitten needs surprisingly little — but the few things it does need, it needs on day one. This is the complete list: one researched pick per need, a budget alternative where it makes sense, and a running total so nothing surprises you.
1.Litter setup
Any large, low-sided open pan works as a first box — kittens need easy entry more than gadgets. Unscented litter helps litter training stick.
2.Scratching & climbing
Set it up before the kitten arrives — claws learn the post or the couch in the first weeks.
Buy adult-sized once — kittens grow into a tree in months.
3.Food & water
Our cat food reviews are still in progress — until they land, choose an AAFCO kitten-formula food from a major manufacturer and keep the same formula through month 12.
4.Cleanup
Regular cleaner masks the smell; enzyme cleaner removes it so accidents don't become habits.
5.Grooming
Start brushing in week one, even on a short coat — a kitten that learns the brush becomes a cat that tolerates it.
6 of 6 items selected
Listing-time prices, not live — tap any item to add or remove it.
$189
The first weeks, briefly
- Day 1: one quiet room with the litter box, food, water, and a hiding spot — let the kitten come to you.
- Week 1: show the scratching post daily and reward any use; book the first vet visit.
- Week 2–4: expand access to the home room by room, start short brushing sessions, and keep the litter box spotless — clean boxes make litter training almost automatic.