Overview
Bringing home a kitten is exciting, but it’s natural to have plenty of questions. Whether you're a first-time cat owner or adding to your feline family, this guide will help you confidently navigate those early weeks.
Our vet has answered new kitten owners' most common questions, from feeding and litter training to socialisation and vaccinations.
1. How do I introduce a kitten to a cat?
Introducing a kitten to an adult cat takes time. Start by keeping them in separate rooms, but swap items such as bedding between rooms every couple of days so they can get used to each other’s scent.
The next step after scent-swapping is to allow visual access (not physical, yet). Allow the cats to see each other but not approach each other - a stair gate can be helpful. After a few days, begin short, supervised meetings in a calm, neutral space. Reward relaxed behaviour with treats, but never force interactions. Some hissing is normal at first, but if either cat seems overly stressed, give them more time apart before trying again. Patience is key. Introductions can take days or even weeks.
2. How can I tell if my kitten is male or female?
You can check by gently lifting their tail and looking at the area underneath. In males, the anus and genitals are spaced further apart, looking like a colon (:). In females, the openings are closer together, resembling an upside-down exclamation mark (¡).
It’s often easier to tell when kittens are a few weeks old, but if you’re unsure, your vet can confirm at their first check-up.
3. Why is my kitten meowing so much?
Kittens meow for lots of reasons, including hunger, thirst, attention, or just to communicate. In the first few nights at home, they may cry because they miss their littermates.
Most kittens settle with time, especially if they feel safe and comfortable. A warm bed, a nightlight, or a soft toy can help. Make sure they are eating, drinking and toileting regularly and that they have easy access to these resources. If your kitten’s meowing seems excessive, or they show signs of discomfort, check with your vet to rule out any health concerns.
4. How much should I feed my kitten?
Kittens need a diet designed for their growth, with three to four small meals a day until they’re six months old. After that, you can gradually reduce to two meals a day.
Follow the feeding guidelines on your kitten food packaging and adjust based on their growth and energy levels. If you’re unsure about portion sizes, your vet can advise during check-ups.
5. How do I stop my kitten from biting?
Biting is natural for kittens, especially during play, but it’s important to teach them what’s acceptable. If your kitten bites your hands or feet, redirect them to a toy instead. Avoid rough play, as it can encourage nipping.
If they bite too hard, withdraw attention briefly, as this teaches them that biting ends playtime. Provide plenty of toys suitable for chewing and biting, especially when your kitten is young enough to be teething. Consistency is key, and over time, they’ll learn to interact more gently.
6. How much do kitten vaccinations cost?
In the UK, core kitten vaccinations typically cost between £40 and £60 for the initial course, with annual boosters usually costing £30 to £50. But prices can vary depending on location and vet practice.
Pet Health Club members get vaccinations included as part of their plan, helping to spread the cost of essential care. Your vet can guide you if you’re unsure about what your kitten needs.
7. How do I litter train a kitten?
Most kittens naturally pick up litter training, but you can help by choosing a shallow tray that’s easy for them to climb into. Place it somewhere quiet but accessible, away from their food and bed. If you have more than one cat, provide multiple litter trays in different locations (the general recommendation is to have one more litter tray than you have cats!).
Encourage them to use it by gently placing them in the tray after meals, naps, and playtime. If they get it right, offer gentle praise. Keeping the litter tray clean is important, as kittens prefer a fresh space. If accidents happen, avoid punishment, just clean up thoroughly and keep their routine consistent.
8. How do I introduce a kitten to a dog?
Patience is key when introducing a kitten to a dog. Keep them separate at first, swapping items such as bedding to allow them to get used to each other’s scent. When it’s time for a first meeting, keep your dog on a lead and keep the environment calm.
Reward relaxed behaviour with praise and treats, and keep interactions short at first. Over time, they’ll become more comfortable together, but always supervise until you’re confident they’re safe. Keep them apart during high-stakes activities, such as playtime and feeding time.
9. When does a kitten become a cat?
Kittens are generally considered adults at around one year old, though they continue maturing socially until they’re about two. Some larger breeds take even longer to develop fully.
10. When can kittens go outside?
Kittens should stay indoors until they’re at least six months old, fully vaccinated, and neutered. This helps protect them from diseases and prevents unwanted pregnancies.
When your cat is ready to explore outdoors, start with short, supervised trips in a quiet area. It can be helpful to time these first sessions just before a mealtime, so that your cat will be hungry and therefore highly motivated to return when you rattle their food bowl. You can gradually increase their time outside as they become more confident.
11. Do kittens sleep through the night?
Not at first. Kittens often wake up during the night for food or play. To help them settle, establish a bedtime routine. Play with them before bed to burn off energy, then provide a cosy sleeping area.
As they grow, they’ll start sleeping for longer stretches and adjust to your household routine.
12. Should I let my kitten explore the house?
Yes, but take it one step at a time. Start by setting up one room as their safe space, with everything they need, including food, water, a litter tray, and a cosy bed. This will help your kitten settle in and feel secure.
Once they’re confident in that space, usually after a few days, you can let your kitten explore your house, one bit at a time. Make sure anything that could be dangerous is out of reach, and keep a close eye as they discover new corners.
13. Where should I put my kitten at night?
For the first few nights, it’s best to let your kitten sleep in their safe space (the room they first settled into). Give them a comfy bed or a box lined with soft bedding, and keep their litter tray, food, and water nearby.
This quiet, contained environment will help them feel safe and reduce the chance of nighttime accidents. As they grow and get used to their surroundings, you can decide whether to give them more freedom at night.
14. How can you tell how old a kitten is?
A kitten’s age can often be worked out by looking at their development:
Newborn to 2 weeks: Eyes closed, ears folded, very dependent on mum
2 to 3 weeks: Eyes open, ears unfolding, starting to crawl
3 to 4 weeks: More active and mobile, baby teeth start to show
4 to 6 weeks: Beginning to play, trying soft food
6 to 8 weeks: Very playful and active, baby teeth present, eye colour may start changing
Need more advice?
Your vet is always the best person to ask if you have concerns. Pet Health Club members get unlimited vet consultations, so expert advice is always available when you need it.
Medically reviewed by Lizzie Youens, BSc(Hons) BVSc MRCVS
Published on 15/04/2025 • Reviewed on 15/04/2025