Bringing home a new kitten is an exciting journey filled with joy, curiosity and lots of heart-melting moments. At Xi Meow Cattery, we understand that this milestone can also come with some nervousness, especially if it’s your first time welcoming a furry little one into the family.
Rest assured, you’re not alone in wanting the very best for your kitten. Whether you’ve decided to buy a British Longhair kitten or brought home one of our British Shorthair kittens for sale, here are five gentle, thoughtful tips to help your new furkid settle in comfortably!
Give them a cosy space of their own
Kittens, just like us, need a safe and familiar space to feel secure. Before your kitten arrives, prepare a small corner of your home where they can retreat when everything feels a bit overwhelming. A soft bed, some gentle toys, and a hidey box or two can work wonders. Avoid placing this space in noisy areas like near the washing machine or beside the main entrance. A peaceful corner lets your kitten adjust at their own pace and helps them feel that this new environment is truly theirs.
Add a soft blanket or plush toy to their space for comfort. A cosy setup helps your kitten feel safe as they adjust to their new surroundings.
Be patient with introductions
If you already have pets at home, remember to take things slow when introducing your kitten to the rest of the furry family. Let everyone get used to each other’s scent first. Swapping bedding or using a soft towel to rub one pet and then the other can help them start to recognise one another without face-to-face interaction.
First introductions should be supervised and brief. Give lots of treats and praise for calm behaviour, and always watch their body language. Over time, and with lots of gentle encouragement, your new kitten and resident pets will learn to co-exist peacefully—even becoming the best of friends.
Establish a routine early on
Kittens feel more secure with a steady routine. Set regular times for feeding, play and rest to help them settle in. This also builds confidence and lays a strong foundation for socialisation. If you’re thinking about showing your kitten in the future, the World Cat Federation (WCF) offers guidance on breed standards and show preparation that’s helpful to explore early on.
Keep their health and safety a top priority
As your kitten explores their new world, it’s essential to kitten-proof your home. Secure wires, cover electrical sockets, and ensure harmful plants or small objects are out of reach. Keeping your new friend safe allows them to explore without anxiety (for you or them!).
Shower them with love, but let them lead
Every kitten has a different personality—some are confident and curious, while others may be shy and observant. It’s perfectly okay if your kitten doesn’t want to be cuddled right away. Let them come to you. Sit nearby, talk to them gently and play with toys they can chase or bat at. Over time, they’ll begin to associate you with safety, love and fun.
Don’t worry if it feels like progress is slow. At Xi Meow Cattery, we’ve seen many kittens bloom beautifully in their own time. Just like people, they each have their pace, and with your patience and care, they will learn to trust and love deeply.
Final word
Welcoming a kitten into your life is such a special experience, and here at Xi Meow Cattery, we’re with you every step of the way. We take immense pride in working closely with ethical breeders and ensuring our kittens are healthy, well-socialised and ready to join loving homes like yours.
Ready to start your journey? Visit Xi Meow Cattery and let us help you welcome your purring bundle of joy into your life.
