Getting the right kitten supplies doesn’t have to be expensive. No, you don’t have to break the bank. There is a wide price range of supplies available for kittens. And the best part is that kittens really don’t care about the cost of an item. They just want to play and be loved.
When you first get a kitten, try to stick to the basic items that your feline needs. You can always upgrade later and get additional needed items. Just try not to overwhelm your new kitten with too much stuff! Here is a list of some basic essential items your kitten will need.
- Bed
You can make a bed or purchase a kitten bed. Make a kitten bed by getting a cardboard box and layer towels or old blankets to make a soft spot for your kitten. Store bought kitten beds come with a variety of extras that your kitten may or may not need.
It is best to train a kitten sleep in its own bed. You may love to cuddle and have your kitten sleep in your bed. However, it’s easy to accidently crush or smother a small kitten while you’re asleep.
- Food Bowl
Look for a stainless steel or ceramic food bowl. Some kittens can develop an allergic reaction to plastic or rubber bowls. Disposable paper plates can be used as well and are hygienic.
The depth of the bowl depends on the breed of cat. Breeds with larger heads may need wider bowls. Oriental breeds with flatter with short muzzles may need shallow food bowls. In addition, always make sure your kitten has fresh, clean water available.
- Litter Box
There are hooded, open, and automatic litter self-cleaning boxes. Whichever type of litter box you choose, make sure it is in a private location and away from your kitten’s food. A kitten may not use its box if it is in a poor location.
- Scratching Post
A scratching post is one of the most essential kitten supplies. A variety of scratching posts are available to help your kitten keep its nails conditioned and keep your furniture intact. Some posts car covered in cardboard, rope, or carpet.
Your kitten may develop a preference for a certain type of material. Initially, however, a kitten may not recognize the purpose of a scratching post and may need to be trained.
- Carrier
When transporting your kitten, a carrier is essential. A carrier can keep your kitten safe and contained during transport. And it keeps you safe if an auto accident occurs while you’re in the car with your kitten. Your kitten is less likely to go flying around in your vehicle.
Carriers are available in a variety of materials: plastic, cardboard, or metal. The choice depends on what you and your kitten prefer.
- Toys
One of the great things about kittens is that they will play with the most simple of items. Rolled up balls of paper or foil make great kitten toys. You can spend more money if you want. Get
Make sure that the toys are not so small that your kitten can swallow and choke on them.
- Brush/Comb
There are many types of combs and brushes to choose from. Flea combs manually remove fleas from kitten fur. Metal combs can be use on cats with medium less dense coats. Metal rakes can be used on longer-haired cat to help remove mated fur. Brushing helps smoothes the fur and distributes natural skin oils throughout the fur creating a glossy coat.
- Shampoo/Conditioner
Kittens need a specific shampoo for felines. Human shampoo is not appropriate for kittens and may irritate kittens’ delicate skin. Kitten specific shampoos are gentle and cleanse the skin and fur without over stripping the skin.
- Collar
Collars are essential kitten supplies. Putting an ID tag on your kitten’s collar helps you located your kitten if it ever becomes lost. It also notifies strangers that your kitten has an owner if it’s seen wandering around your neighborhood.
Just make sure the collar is not too tight around the neck. And watch to see if it irritates your kitten skin causing an allergic reaction.
- Toothbrush
Cleaning your kitten’s teeth is an important part of its overall care. You can use a child size toothbrush or a finger brush to clean your kitten’s teeth. Also, use a feline specific toothpaste as the fluoride in human toothpaste can make felines sick.
- Nail Trimmer
You can use of variety of trimming devices to clip kitten nails. Human nail clippers, guillotine style clippers, and scissor style clippers can all be sued to cut kitten nails. Human nail clippers are easier to maneuver for small kittens. Be sure not to cut the quick (triangular center of the nail) when trimming. This can cause pain for your kitten.
Remember…the proper kitten supplies can make all the difference when caring for your kitten.
