Bringing a kitten home is so exciting! To help you get ready for their arrival, we’ve created this kitten care essentials checklist.
Want to tick off items as you shop? There’s a checklist on page 6 of the Petbarn Kitten Care Guide along with some vouchers to help you save on the essentials (see pages 65-70).
Kitten advice essentials
Join the Petbarn Puppy and Kitten Club
Petbarn Puppy and Kitten Club members unlock tailored advice, exclusive discount vouchers, and a free welcome bag! Plus all the other perks that come with being a Friends for Life member.
Joining is simple:
- Sign up to our Friends for Life loyalty program (if you haven’t already)
- Complete a Pet Profile for your new puppy
- Enjoy the perks
Download the Petbarn app
The Petbarn app is designed to help you be the best pet parent you can be. Through the app, you can:
- Book vet appointments with Greencross Vets
- Shop pet supplies for delivery or click and collect
- Get fast answers to your burning pet questions with PetAI
- Easily access your membership rewards
- Set reminders for when your pet is due for parasite prevention
And more!
Home and travel
Collar with a bell
Kittens are masters of hiding! A cat collar with a small bell on it will make it much easier to find your new pet, and warn any unsuspecting wildlife when they are ready to venture outside.
Cat bed
A soft, comfy cat bed for your kitten to call home will give them a safe place to rest and help them settle.
Pet carrier
You’ll need to have a travel crate in order to transport your kitten home for the first time, and also to take them for their vet visits.
Kitten toys
Toys provide mental and physical stimulation for your kitten and help you to bond. Make sure you have a variety of different toys for your kitten that you regularly switch out so that they stay entertained.
Scratching post
Scratching is a natural instinct for cats. Spare your furniture and invest in a tall scratching post. Your kitten can test their claws on this rather than your furniture.
Kitten feeding essentials
Two bowls
A set of sturdy bowls for food and water is a must. Make sure they have a rubber base to minimise slipping during feeding.
Super premium kitten food
As little bundles of energy, kittens need the right food to support their growth. Super premium kitten food has been scientifically formulated to contain all essential nutrients and vitamins for your kitten’s healthy development. Use our Cat Food Finder tool to discover the optimal diet for your unique kitten.
Cat treats
Many cat treats may be too high in calories too large for your kitten to eat. Wait until your kitten is a little bit older before you start feeding them these tasty morsels and make sure to read the label to make sure they’re suitable for your pet. Once your kitten is old enough to enjoy these snacks, use them to reward good behaviour and bond with your feline friend.
Health essentials
Flea, tick and worm treatments
Even if you have an indoor kitten, they are still at risk of being infected by parasites because you and your other pets can carry these in from the outdoors. Protect your kitten from the discomfort of a parasite infestation by regularly treating them with parasite preventatives.
Use our Flea, Tick and Worm Treatment Finder or speak with your local Greencross Vet for more advice on the right products and treatment schedules for your kitten.
Health check at Greencross Vets
Make sure you take your kitten for a health check at your nearest Greencross Vets clinic where the passionate and dedicated staff will perform a thorough physical examination to ensure your kitten is happy and healthy. You can also ask any questions you have about vaccinating and desexing your kitten, and more.
Dental care
Establish a dental routine for your kitten early on in their life and prevent dental disease in the future by regularly using dental products like pet toothbrushes and toothpaste to keep their teeth clean and free of plaque.
Kitty litter essentials
Cat litter
There are many different types of cat litter available so make sure to choose one that suits both you and your kitten. Not sure what litter substate to get? Use our Litter Finder tool to find some recommendations or ask your local Petbarn team members for advice.
Litter tray, tray liners and a scoop
Providing your kitten with access to a litter tray is a must, and having accessories like tray liners and scoops on hand is essential for keeping your home clean and smelling fresh. We always suggest having one more litter tray than kitten to allow them choice when doing their business.
Grooming essentials
Brush, comb and nail clippers
Kitten’s are superb self-groomers, but you can help your pet out by regularly brushing them to keep their coat extra shiny and healthy. You will also need to trim your kitten’s nails with dedicated animal nail clippers.
Waterless cat shampoo
Even though your kitten will regularly groom themselves, if they get themselves dirty or if you would like to reduce their shedding, then you can bathe them. Keep your kitten’s skin and coat fresh with some waterless cat shampoo.
Want to buy most of the essentials with a single click? Check out our Kitten Starter Packs.
Now you’ve got all the kitten care essentials you need, it’s time to introduce your kitten to the family. If they’re having trouble settling in, or you have any questions about their needs or behaviour, visit your local Petbarn store for more advice from our friendly and experienced team members.