Bringing a new kitten home is always exciting.  It’s fun to introduce them to the rest of your family.  The way you introduce your new kitten to your home can make a big difference in how well they make the adjustment.

Cats like things to be predictable because they are creatures of habit.  Even if you have the most easy going cat in the world, they are going to be nervous and stressed because of the new home environment.  Take things slow and give your new kitten plenty of time to get used to their new home.

Following are a couple of things that you can do before bringing a new kitten home which will make the transition to their new home easier.

• Make an appointment with your veterinarian to have your pet examined.
• Make sure you have a sturdy travel crate for the kitten to ride home in.  When cats are nervous, they tend to feel more secure in an enclosed area.  Having the kitten in a crate will also be helpful in case your cat gets sick or has a bathroom accident because they are nervous.
• The sense of smell is very important to cats and they will feel more comfortable if there is something that smells like their former home.  Talk to the breeder or shelter where your kitten currently lives and make arrangements to take a towel or blanket over so the kitten can sleep on it for a few days before you pick them up.  By placing the towel or blanket in the crate and letting the kitten sleep with it for the first few days will lessen the kitten’s stress.
• Limit the number of changes for your new pet by getting the same type of food and litter they are used to.  If you want to change latter on, you can gradually make the changes after your pet has been more comfortable with their new surroundings.
• Place your cat’s food, water, toys, scratching post and litter pan in a quiet room that you can close off.  This will help reduce some of the anxiety a shy or fearful kitten may feel.  It is normal for a new kitten to hide under beds or furniture until they feel comfortable in their new home.

When you first bring your new kitten home, place them in the room that you’ve fixed up.  Let them explore the area at their own pace.  Talk to your pet in a soft, reassuring tone, and pet them if they seem interested.  Leave the open crate in the room, so they have a safe retreat.  Give them time to learn they can trust you.

Introduce other family members slowly to your new pet.  If you have young children, show them how to gently stroke the kitten.  Taking the time to gradually introduce your pet will guarantee that bringing a new kitten home will be a success.