Experiencing a brand new home
Introducing a new kitten to your home can be challenging, especially considering their individual personality. To make the transition as smooth as possible, it's important to create a safe and secure environment for them. Understanding how the environment affects your kitten is key to building a strong bond with your new fur baby.
For the first week or so
When bringing home a new kitten, it's a good idea to choose a room that can serve as a safe space for them to adjust gradually to their new surroundings. This can also help with litter box training, as your kitten will learn where their litter tray is located.
Checklist
- Potential hazards – Check the room for potential hazards and remove anything that could become broken or dangerous.
- Avoid rooms with full-length curtains – as kittens love to climb
- Have a litter box in a discreet corner
- Food & water dishes should be far away from their litter box
- Position the bed as far away as possible from the litter box, and food & water bowls
- Have toys available for play – even a cardboard box can go a long way
- Scratching post – have something that you are ok with your new kitten scratching its claws on or climbing on
The importance of territory
Cats have a strong need to establish their territory and feel safe and comfortable within it. They have a tendency to rub their cheeks against various surfaces, including their owners' legs, as a way to mark their territory with pheromones and create a sense of security.