Cat Care Guide
Everything new cat owners need
From first meal to first vet visit and beyond.
Feeding guide by age
0–4 weeks
Kitten formula every 2–4 hours. No solid food yet.
4–8 weeks
Begin wet kitten food mixed with formula, 4–6 small meals/day.
2–6 months
High-protein kitten food, 3–4 meals/day.
6–12 months
Kitten food, 2–3 meals/day. Always fresh water.
1+ years
Transition to adult food. 2 meals/day for most cats.
Litter training tips
- Place the box in a quiet, accessible spot away from food.
- Use unscented clumping litter, most cats prefer it.
- Put the kitten in the box after meals and naps until they get the idea.
- Scoop daily, deep-clean weekly.
- Never punish accidents, clean with an enzyme cleaner instead.
Health & grooming
- First vet visit within a week of bringing your kitten home.
- Core vaccines: FVRCP and rabies. Discuss FeLV with your vet.
- Spay/neuter typically between 4–6 months.
- Brush short-hairs weekly, long-hairs daily.
- Trim claws every 2–3 weeks; brush teeth weekly if possible.
New kitten checklist
- Litter box + unscented clumping litter
- Food and water bowls (ceramic or stainless)
- Kitten-formula wet & dry food
- Scratching post (sisal, at least 28" tall)
- Carrier for vet visits
- Soft bed in a quiet spot
- Interactive toys (wand, ball, puzzle feeder)
- Brush or grooming glove
- Vet appointment within first week