What Should I Get for a New Kitten? | A Complete Checklist

Most first-time kitten owners head to the pet store expecting to grab a bag of kibble and a litter box, then call it done. That gets a kitten through day one, but it misses the bigger picture — kittens arrive with a shortlist of physical and behavioral needs that shape their health for years.

The real answer to “what should I get for a new kitten?” isn’t just a shopping list. It’s knowing which items matter most, which features to look for, and why a proper setup makes the first week smoother for both of you. Below is the breakdown, from carrier to vet visit.

Your New Kitten’s Must-Have Supplies

A secure, well-ventilated pet carrier tops the list. It’s the safest way to bring the kitten home and to vet appointments. Pick one with a top-opening option — it makes getting a scared kitten in and out much easier.

Food and water bowls should be shallow and made of stainless steel or ceramic. Plastic bowls can hold bacteria in tiny scratches and may contribute to feline acne. PetMD’s checklist emphasizes secure pet carrier as the first essential, followed by stainless steel bowls for hygiene.

A low-sided litter box gives tiny legs easy access. Unscented, clumping litter is generally recommended — strong perfumes can deter kittens from using the box. A scratching post (vertical) and a flat scratching mat satisfy natural clawing instincts and help protect furniture.

Why the First Few Days Set the Tone

Kittens are most impressionable between two and seven weeks old, but even a slightly older kitten will form lasting associations with new objects, sounds, and routines during the first week in a new home. Getting the right supplies upfront builds confidence and prevents problems like house-soiling or destructive scratching later.

• Veterinary visit within 48 hours: A health check, initial vaccinations, and deworming catch issues early. Many vets also offer a fecal exam and FIV/FeLV testing.
• Growth-formulated kitten food: Wet, dry, or a mix — the label should say “complete and balanced for growth.” Avoid adult formulas until the kitten is at least 12 months old.
• Quiet sleeping area: A soft, washable bed in a low-traffic corner lets the kitten retreat when overwhelmed. Avoid placing the bed near loud appliances or windows.
• Interactive toys and puzzle feeders: Wand toys, small balls, and treat-dispensing puzzles provide mental stimulation and prevent boredom-related mischief.
• Kitten-proofed home: Secure electrical cords, remove toxic plants (lilies are extremely dangerous), and block gaps behind appliances where a kitten could wedge itself.

Choosing the Right Carrier and Bed

Not all carriers are equal for a kitten. A soft-sided carrier is lighter and more comfortable for small kittens but won’t hold up to a determined chewer. A hard plastic carrier is easier to clean and provides better protection during car rides, but it feels more clinical. Many owners keep both on hand — a hard carrier for vet trips and a soft one for visits to family or short car rides.

A bed that’s intentionally snug — with high sides or a hood — often works better than a wide, open mat. Kittens feel secure when they can curl into a small space. Place the bed in a quiet room away from household traffic, and let the kitten discover it on its own terms.

Setting Up the Litter Box and Feeding Area

Where you place the litter box and feeding station matters as much as what you buy. Cats have strong instincts about elimination and feeding zones, and a poorly placed setup can cause stress that leads to accidents.

1. Choose the right box and litter: Use a low-sided box with unscented, clumping litter. The box should be at least 1.5 times the kitten’s length. Avoid hooded boxes at first — they can feel too enclosed.
2. Place boxes in quiet, accessible spots: Avoid laundry rooms, basements, or high-traffic hallways. The box should be easy to reach and not near the food and water bowls.
3. Keep feeding areas separate and stable: Shallow, non-slip bowls prevent whisker fatigue and tipping. Elevated feeders are unnecessary for kittens and can increase the risk of bloat in some cats.
4. Clean the litter box daily: Scoop at least once a day. Wash the box weekly with mild dish soap — avoid strong-smelling cleaners like bleach or pine.

Nutrition, Enrichment, and Grooming Essentials

A growth-formulated kitten diet is the foundation of healthy development. Purina’s high-quality kitten food guidance notes that kittens have higher protein, fat, and caloric needs than adult cats. Wet food adds moisture for kidney and urinary health, while dry kibble can help with dental tartar control. A mix of both is a common approach.

Beyond food, interactive toys provide exercise and mental work. Wand toys mimic prey movement, puzzle feeders slow down fast eaters, and simple cardboard boxes can become favorite hiding spots. Grooming supplies — a soft brush, nail clippers, and a toothbrush — help the kitten tolerate handling and reduce vet visit stress.

The Bottom Line

Preparing for a new kitten means gathering a carrier, growth-formulated food, shallow bowls, a low-sided litter box, a scratching post, toys, a bed, a breakaway collar, and grooming supplies — plus scheduling a vet visit within days. These essentials build a foundation for health, safety, and a stress-free transition.

Your veterinarian can confirm which brand and feeding schedule best fits your kitten’s age, weight, and any breed-specific concerns, so bring your supply list to that first appointment for a tailored recommendation.