Congratulations on your new kitten. When welcoming a kitten into your
home, there are a few items that will make the transition easier and result in a
happy and healthy kitten, and a new member of your home.

*Collar and Identification Tag (and leash) – A cat who is comfortable in a collar is easier
to take places, such as for rides in the car, trips to the vet, or even for a walk around the
block. A collar also ensures that if your cat finds itself in trouble, the attached
identification tag will ensure that it gets home safe. Many cats enjoy a nice leisurely stroll
around the block in the quite evening, and having a leash attached ensures safety.
Retractable leashes come in lightweight sizes that allow the cat plenty of room for
exploration.

*Litter – There are many different litters available, and the ultimate decision will in part
be up to your feline friend. We recommend a biodegradable litter, as they are safer for
the environment. A clumping litter is easier to remove from the litter box, and many
clumping litters are flushable.

*Litter Box and Supplies – Make sure the litter box is large enough for your cat to move
around in and get comfortable. A covered litter box will reduce the risk of accidents down
the side of the box or on the surrounding walls. Make sure you have a good sturdy litter
scoop. Many litters recommend a specific scoop for assurance of cleanup.

*Toys and Treats – Kittens are very mischievous and love to play. Have plenty of objects
for them to bat around and ‘kill’. C atnip toys are especially fun, b ut don’t overdo them .
Feather wands are an excellent way to interact with your new kitten while ensuring her
health and developing her skills. Cats love to be rewarded and treated like the gods that
they are. Tasty little morsels such as dehydrated chicken or salmon are always a nice treat.

*Food and Water Bowls – Plastics can leach chemicals into the water and harbor bacteria
so we recommend ceramic or metal. Water fountains are a fun way to provide your feline
with a clean, flowing water source that encourages proper hydration.

*A Bed – Cats love a good nap. Provide them with a safe, quite place to retreat to when
they need to unwind and dream of chasing mice.

*Grooming Supplies - Incorporate grooming as part of your feline routine, so that your cat
will enjoy the attention. Brushing your feline regularly also reduces the risk of hairballs.
Longhaired cats should be groomed a couple times a week, while shorthaired cats at least
once a week. Read the back of the brushes for recommendations based on coat and breed.

*Nail Clippers – Most indoor cats will need to have their nails trimmed on a regular basis,
and although most felines will never enjoy the experience, they can learn to tolerate it.
There are a few different styles of trimmers, so again read the back of the packages, or
ask an employee for assistance.

*Chews – Kittens need to develop their teeth and gums and providing them with bones such
as chicken necks or small quail will give them a fun, healthy way to keep their teeth strong
and healthy.

*A Healthy Food – Due to the high number of urinary and kidney problems in cats, which
are directly related to diet, we recommend starting your kitten off right. Feeding a raw
diet not only provides optimum nutrition, they are also higher in moisture and help with
litter box odor. Canned food is another healthy alternative that is less processed than dry
food. We do not recommend feeding dry kibble as the primary food source for felines, but
mixing dry food with canned or raw, or both can provide variety. Look for a dry food that
uses all human grade ingredients, with no artificial chemicals or preservatives. Ask an
employee to help you in choosing a healthy diet for your feline.