New kitten checklist

Bringing home a kitten is exciting. This checklist covers the basics so you’re ready from day one.

Not vet advice. This guide is general information collected from the animal-welfare and veterinary sources listed below. Every cat is different, so please see your vet about your own cat. In an emergency, contact your nearest vet or emergency animal hospital straight away.

Before your kitten comes home

Adopt from a registered shelter or rescue group where you can. The ASPCA encourages adopting from your local shelter. In Australia, try your state RSPCA or PetRescue.
AVMA says seven to nine weeks of age is considered the ideal time for a kitten to move to a new home.
If you can, meet the kitten’s parents. Their looks and behaviour may give clues to how your kitten will turn out (AVMA).

Shopping list

Kitten food that is complete and balanced for growing kittens (ASPCA), plus food and water bowls.
A litter tray in a quiet, easy-to-reach spot, with one per floor in a multi-level home (ASPCA).
A sturdy scratching post. ASPCA suggests one at least three feet (about 90 cm) tall that doesn’t wobble, covered in a rough material like sisal.
A clean, dry bed lined with a soft blanket or towel that you wash often (ASPCA).
Safe toys. Don’t use string or ribbon, which can cause life-threatening problems if swallowed (AVMA).
A cat carrier for vet visits.

First weeks at home

Book a vet check. Your vet can check your kitten’s health, plan its diet and set up vaccinations (ASPCA, AVMA).
Vaccinations: RSPCA Australia says current guidelines recommend kittens get their first core vaccine from 6–8 weeks of age, then every 3–4 weeks until 16–20 weeks, with a booster at about 6 months. In Australia the core vaccine is commonly called F3. Your vet will advise on the right schedule.
Desexing: talk to your vet about the best time to spay or neuter your kitten to prevent unwanted litters (AVMA).
ID: an ID tag or a microchip can help your cat get home if it ever gets lost (ASPCA). Check your local council’s rules on microchipping and registration too.
If you already have pets, ask your vet how best to introduce them (AVMA).

Everyday care

Scoop the litter tray at least once a day and wash it with mild detergent regularly. Don’t use ammonia or strong scents like lemon (ASPCA).
Brush your cat regularly to reduce shedding and hairballs (ASPCA).
To pick up a cat, put one hand behind the front legs and the other under the back end, and lift gently. Never lift a cat by the scruff or by its front legs (ASPCA).
Plan a vet check at least once a year, and straight away if your cat is sick or hurt (ASPCA).
Keep your cat safe at home. Indoor cats avoid risks like cars and fights (ASPCA). See our indoor enrichment guide for ideas.

Sources

Checked 28 October 2026.