PetMall Knowledge Hub Tools
Kitten First Weeks Checklist — Everything You Need for a New Kitten
Bringing a new kitten home is exciting — and a little overwhelming. What do you need on day one? What can wait? The Kitten First Weeks Checklist helps New Zealand kitten owners get set up properly, without forgetting the things that matter.
Answer a few quick questions about your kitten and your home, and we'll build you a tailored checklist — covering feeding, litter setup, a safe space, health and vet care, play, scratching, and kitten-proofing — split into what you need for the first week, the first month, and ongoing care.
You can tick items off, mark things you already have, and print the list to take shopping. This is practical general guidance for NZ kitten owners — it is not veterinary advice. For health questions, vaccinations, desexing or parasite prevention, your vet is the right person to ask.
Takes about 1 minute • Anonymous • Free
Before you start
This checklist is practical general guidance for New Zealand kitten owners. It is not veterinary advice and does not replace a vet. For health, vaccination, desexing or parasite questions, please consult a registered NZ veterinarian.
How the Kitten First Weeks Checklist Works
This isn't a generic shopping list. We take what you tell us — your kitten's age, where you got them, whether they'll be indoor or indoor-outdoor, your home, and whether you have other pets or children — and build a checklist that fits your situation.
The list is organised the way new kitten owners actually need it: what to sort before and during the first week, what to add over the first month, and what becomes part of ongoing care. Every item explains why it matters, and where it helps, we link to the right PetMall category so you can find what you need.
Some items are things to buy; others are simple actions, like registering with a vet or kitten-proofing a room. The checklist flags both.
Common Questions
Is this checklist a substitute for advice from a vet?
No. The Kitten First Weeks Checklist is practical general guidance to help you get set up. It does not give medical advice and does not replace a veterinarian. For vaccinations, desexing, parasite prevention, or any health concern, please talk to a registered NZ vet.
Why is the checklist split into "first week", "first month", and "ongoing"?
New kitten owners don't need everything on day one. Splitting the list helps you focus on the essentials first — feeding, litter, a safe space — then add the rest as your kitten settles in. It keeps the first few days calmer and your spending spread out.
How many litter trays does my kitten need?
Start with one or two clean, easy-to-reach trays. A common guideline is one tray per cat plus one spare, and an extra tray if your home has multiple levels. Keep trays clean — kittens are easily put off by a dirty tray.
Should my kitten go outside?
That's a personal decision, and many New Zealand owners weigh it carefully. Things to consider include your kitten's age and vaccination status, road safety, and protecting native wildlife. Some owners keep cats indoors, some allow supervised outdoor access, and many keep cats in at night. Your vet can help you decide what's right for your kitten and your area.
When should my kitten be desexed and vaccinated?
Your vet will advise on the right timing for your kitten. Desexing is widely recommended in New Zealand, and vaccinations and parasite prevention are an important part of early kitten care. Book a first vet visit soon after bringing your kitten home and ask your vet to set out a plan.
Does my kitten need to be microchipped in New Zealand?
A microchip is a permanent way to be reunited with your cat if it ever goes missing, and microchipping is strongly recommended.
What food should I get for my kitten?
Kittens are growing fast and need food formulated specifically for kittens, rather than adult cat food. If your kitten is already eating a particular food from the breeder or shelter, change to a new food gradually over about a week to avoid an upset stomach. Your vet or breeder can help with feeding amounts.
What household things are dangerous to kittens?
Several common things are hazards. Lilies are extremely toxic to cats — the pollen and even the vase water can be deadly — so remove them from your home. Other hazards include loose string, tinsel and hair ties, electrical cords, small swallowable objects, recliner chairs, and open windows or balconies. If you think your kitten has eaten or contacted something dangerous, contact a vet straight away.