Welcoming a new kitten into your family is a wonderful experience, but it requires careful planning and preparation. To help your new kitten feel safe, comfortable, and happy in his new surroundings, follow these steps.

1. Prepare a safe space

Before you bring your kitten home, set up a safe, dedicated space for him or her that he or she can call home when you can't monitor him or her. This area not only helps the kitten gradually acclimate, but also avoids the spread of germs and conflicts if there are other pets in the house.

• Make sure the area is free of hazardous materials, toxic substances and valuables.
• Choose a room that has plenty of natural light, good air circulation, and is easy to clean, such as a spare bedroom, study, laundry room, or bathroom.
• Provide necessary supplies: rest area, food and water bowls, toys and litter box

2. Let the Kitten Explore

Once you bring your kitten home, let him explore the prepared space at his own pace. It may take a few days for your kitten to adjust to its new surroundings, so be patient.

• Slowly allow it access to other areas and isolate other pets in another room initially.
• Use the "smell exchange" method to allow kittens and other pets to gradually become familiar with each other without direct contact.

3. Teach the correct way to play

Deepen the connection with your kitten through short, positive, interactive games.

• Use interactive toys rather than playing with your kitten with your hands or feet to avoid unwanted behaviors.
• If your kitten displays inappropriate play behavior, redirect it to an appropriate activity.
• Reward your kitten for active play behaviors and relaxed postures.

4. Introduce your kitten to other pets

If there are other pets in the home, introductions need to be made gradually and carefully.

• Initially separate the kitten from existing pets, gradually allowing supervised interactions.
• When introducing two cats to each other, use a barrier such as a baby-safe fence to allow them to get used to each other at their own pace.
• If introducing it to a dog, scent exchange should be done first, and then visual contact should be gradually introduced to ensure safety.

5. Ensure safety at night

Place your kitten in a safe space at night to prevent unwanted behaviors in the early morning or late at night. This practice is consistent with the cat's crepuscular activity pattern while ensuring its safety during high activity periods.

6. Consider welcoming two kittens at the same time

It is recommended to welcome two kittens at the same time so that they can provide each other with companionship, promoting mental stimulation and the development of social skills. In addition, the two kittens will grow up together and get along more harmoniously in the future.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can create a smooth and positive transition for your new kitten while fostering a harmonious atmosphere within your household. Welcome the new member with love and patience and make it a happy part of your family.

References :
PetMD - How to Introduce a New Kitten to Your Family