Bringing Your Pet Home
The first few days with a new kitten
Nearly every problem in a kitten's first week traces back to too much space, too much handling or a sudden food change.
By Dr. Elena Rowe, DVM · Reviewed by Dr. Priya Anand, DVM, DACVIM · Updated 2026-08-02 · 7 min read
Before pickup
Have the base room ready before the kitten arrives, not after.
- Litter tray with the same litter the breeder used
- Two weeks of the breeder's food
- Shallow water bowl away from food
- Covered bed and a cardboard hide
- Booked vet appointment within 72 hours
The first 72 hours
Keep visitors away, keep the room quiet, and let the kitten come to you. Sit on the floor and read aloud rather than reaching into the hiding spot.
Show the kitten the litter tray after every meal and every nap for the first two days.
Introducing existing pets
Swap bedding scents for two days before any visual contact, then introduce through a cracked door or baby gate, then supervised in short sessions. Rushing this stage is what creates long-term inter-cat tension.
Frequently asked questions
- When should a kitten go home from the breeder?
- Twelve to fourteen weeks for pedigree kittens, and never before eight weeks. Later placement is linked to better litter habits and fewer behaviour problems.