That adorable ball of fur needs more than just “Ohhhhs” and “Ahhhhs.” Here’s what you need to take care of before your new kitten arrives home.

Welcoming a new kitten into your family is definitely an exciting time, but there are certain things that you need to have in place and certain steps that you should take, both prior to and immediately following the introduction of your new baby. Let’s go over some tips that will ensure your home is ready for your little addition and you’ll be able to provide your kitty with everything she needs to be happy and healthy.

Buy the Necessary Supplies

In order to give your kitten everything that she will need to grow big and strong, you should gather all of your supplies ahead of time so that you need not worry about rushing out at the last minute to get something from the pet store.

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Have a small litter box and non-clumping clay litter on hand, especially if your kitten is still too small to use clumping litter. You should also purchase a cozy cat bed and plenty of kitten-friendly toys that will keep your pet stimulated.

High-quality kitten food should also be purchased, along with bowls that are just for your kitten, especially since you will need to isolate your new baby for a few days if you have other cats in the house that need to be introduced gradually to their new sibling.

If you do not already have a carrier, you will need to purchase one as well that will comfortably hold your kitten whenever she goes on a car ride with you.

Set Up a Special Kitten Room

Choose a small room with an easy-to-clean floor that will serve as your kitten nursery. Whether you are adopting one kitten or more than one, you’ll need this space to give your baby a sense of security and help her begin to feel comfortable in her surroundings before being introduced to the rest of your house.

Related:How To Introduce A New Cat To Your Feline Family

You can place your kitten’s litter box, food and water bowls, and bed in this room, making sure there is plenty of space between the litter and the food and water. Any toys that are safe enough to leave in the room with your kitten can also be left in there so she can play when you aren’t around (take any potentially dangerous toys with you when you leave the room). A scratching post is also a great addition to this nursery, as it will encourage your kitten to use it rather than your furniture.

Spend Plenty of Time with Your Kitten

Socialize your kitten by playing with her and letting her sit in your lap. Feel free to pet her around her face and ears, and touch her paws so that she gets used to being handled. This will make it easier for a vet to examine her and it will also make it easier for you to trim her claws because she will be used to being touched without being afraid.

If you can, create a routine that establishes when your kitten will eat, play, and sleep. Whenever your kitten gets tired during the day, though, let her sleep, as she definitely needs the rest. You may even choose to leave a small nightlight on in the room at night so that she can navigate the room if she is awake.

Let the Exploration Begin

Gradually allow your kitten to explore other rooms in your home. Make sure you secure any dangerous items and keep them away from your kitten, but also put away any delicate items that you don’t want damaged by your rambunctious kitty. This is the perfect opportunity to establish boundaries with regards to where your kitten can scratch and where she is allowed to play safely. Remember, your kitten will be really curious and she may squeeze herself into spaces that can be dangerous, so always keep a close eye on your pet at the beginning.

After your first kitten, you will be a pro at introducing a new baby into your home. Be patient, be gentle, and your kitty will grow to love and trust you for the rest of her life.