Successfully transitioning your kitten into their new home

Bringing a Bengal kitten into your home is a heartwarming and exciting journey. To ensure your new family member settles in well and thrives, it’s essential to approach the transition period thoughtfully. Here’s an in-depth guide to transitioning your kitten into their forever home.

Preparation Before Arrival

• Kitten Essentials:

  • Stock up on key items:

    • Litter Box and Litter: Use a familiar brand like Breeders’ Choice cat litter to minimise stress.

    • Bedding: A soft, washable blanket or bed can help your kitten feel secure.

    • Food and Water Bowls: Opt for shallow bowls to make eating and drinking easier for your kitten.

    • Toys: Interactive and solo toys will keep your kitten entertained and mentally stimulated.

    • Scratching Posts: These are essential for protecting furniture and satisfying your kitten's natural instincts.

      
      

• Kitten-Proof Your Home:

  • Remove small objects, cords, and toxic plants.

  • Secure windows and balconies to prevent accidents.

    
    

• Prepare a Safe Space:

  • Designate a small, quiet room where your kitten can relax and adjust to their new environment. This space should include their litter box, food, water, and bedding.

    
    

The First 72 Hours

1. Confinement to a Small Space:

   • Keeping your kitten in a confined area reduces stress and helps them learn where essential items like their litter box and food are located. A bathroom, ensuite, or small bedroom works well.

   • Gradually introduce them to larger areas of your home as they grow comfortable.

2. Understanding Appetite and Hydration:

   • It’s normal for kittens to eat and drink less when they first arrive due to the change in environment. Offer raw food or high quality kitten food alongside some lactose-free milk to maintain hydration.

3. Maintain a Calm Environment:

   • Avoid overwhelming your kitten with visitors or excessive handling during this period. Allow them to approach you on their terms to build trust.

4. Monitoring Behavior:

   • Look for signs of stress, such as hiding or excessive meowing. If these behaviours persist after a few days, contact us for guidance.

     
     

Introducing Pre-Existing Pets

• To Other Cats:

  • Begin by swapping scents using bedding or toys from your new kitten and existing cats. Once both are comfortable with the scent, allow supervised visual contact, such as through a baby gate or carrier.

  • Gradually increase the time they spend together under supervision. Reinforce positive interactions with treats or gentle praise. For more detailed advice, see this guide.

    
    

• To Dogs:

  • Ensure your dog is calm and leashed when introducing them to the kitten. Let the kitten approach the dog at their own pace.

  • Monitor their interactions closely and separate them if either shows signs of distress. Learn more with this RSPCA guide.

    
    

Diet Transition

Bengal kittens benefit greatly from a raw diet due to its many health benefits, including:

• Improved dental health: Raw food helps reduce tartar buildup.

• Enhanced coat quality: Promotes a glossy, soft coat.

• Better digestion: Reduces the frequency and odour of bowel movements.

  
  

If you choose to transition to wet food, do so gradually to avoid stomach upset:

• Day 1-2: 2/3 raw, 1/3 wet

• Day 3-4: 1/2 raw, 1/2 wet

• Day 5-6: 1/3 raw, 2/3 wet

• Day 7: Fully wet food

  
  

• Raw Food Recommendations:

  • Raw and Fresh

  • Raw Meow

    
    

For ongoing support, join the Australian Raw Fed Cats Facebook Group to connect with like-minded pet owners.

Complications or Questions?

We’re here to support you throughout your kitten’s life. If you have any questions or encounter challenges, don’t hesitate to reach out.