6 Essential Checks When Choosing a Kitten

Bringing a kitten into your life is an exciting experience. Ensuring the kitten you choose is healthy, confident, and well-cared for sets the foundation for a fulfilling companionship. We’ve partnered with FirstVet, the 24-hour digital veterinary service, to share six essential things to check before bringing your kitten home.

1. Assess the Mother Cat's Health and Temperament

A kitten’s wellbeing is closely linked to its mother’s health and temperament. Observe if the mother cat appears healthy with a clean, shiny coat free of fleas or parasites. A friendly, approachable mother is often a good sign that her kittens will also develop social and confident behaviours.

2. Evaluate the Breeding and Living Environment

Choose a kitten bred in a home environment similar to yours. This helps ensure the kitten is accustomed to household activity levels, especially if you have children or other pets. A clean, well-maintained area with ample space, food, water, and enrichment is ideal for raising happy kittens.

3. Check the Kitten’s Physical Health

Healthy kittens show several clear signs:

• Clean ears with no dirt
• Bright, clear eyes without discharge
• Moist, clean nose free from discharge
• Soft, clean coat without fleas or sore patches
• Healthy bottom area without redness or signs of diarrhoea
• Alertness and lively behaviour, not lethargic
• Good body weight – ribs can be felt but not seen, a slight waist visible from above

4. Observe Kitten Behaviour for Confidence and Sociability

A well-socialised kitten should respond positively to your presence. Indicators include:

• Approaches or allows you to approach without fear
• No hissing, growling, or spitting when handled
• Enjoys gentle handling and stroking
• Plays actively and engages with littermates

5. Confirm Preventative Treatments for Worms and Fleas

Worm infections like roundworm are common in kittens, often transmitted through their mother's milk. It is important that the mother is regularly wormed and that the kittens have received worming treatments. Ask the breeder about the specific brands used and continue these treatments per manufacturer instructions.

Flea control is equally vital. Ensure the kittens have started flea treatment, and continue with the same product to avoid reactions. Unsure about treatments? Consult FirstVet for guidance on safe and effective options.

6. Confirm the Kitten is Eating Solid Food and Fully Weaned

Kittens should be fully weaned by around 8 weeks old, meaning they eat solid food and no longer rely on their mother’s milk. Ask the breeder what diet the kittens have been fed so you can gradually transition them to the food you provide at home, avoiding tummy upsets.

Maintaining Your Kitten’s Health After Bringing Them Home

Once settled at home, continue worming and flea treatments as advised. Your kitten will need vaccinations to protect against common feline diseases, and neutering at around four months old to prevent unwanted litters and reduce risks of certain diseases. Learn more about vaccinations and about neutering.

What to Do if You Encounter Poor Breeding Practices

If you suspect a breeder may be engaging in unethical or poor practices, avoid rescuing the animal yourself. Instead, report the breeder to relevant authorities to protect animals from suffering and ensure responsible pet ownership.

Got Questions About Your Kitten’s Health?

You can book a video appointment with experienced FirstVet vets for personalised advice and support on kitten care.

For more detailed guidance, consider reviewing comprehensive checklists available online to support your search for a healthy and happy kitten.