Kitten Starter Kit
(0–12 Weeks)
Vet-Approved Kitten Essentials for New Owners (Weeks 0–12)
Bringing home a new kitten can feel overwhelming. This kitten starter kit covers the essential supplies
you need for kittens aged 0–12 weeks, including feeding tools, bedding, litter training items, and comfort essentials. Use this checklist to prepare your home properly and avoid common beginner mistakes.
Free PDF: Kitten Starter Checklist — Week 0–12
🐾 Day-One Kitten Essentials
Everything you need for your new kitten’s first days – carefully curated and safety-tested
Shop with confidence: All items are hand-picked and verified 100% kitten-safe.
- Formulated for kitten growth (high protein/fat)
- Easily digestible ingredients
- No harmful fillers (corn, soy, wheat gluten)
- Shallow, whisker-fatigue-free bowl designs
- Non-porous, easy-to-sanitize materials (stainless steel, ceramic)
- Formulated for kitten growth (high protein/fat)
- Easily digestible ingredients
- No harmful fillers (corn, soy, wheat gluten)
- Shallow, whisker-fatigue-free bowl designs
- Non-porous, easy-to-sanitize materials (stainless steel, ceramic)
- Formulated for kitten growth (high protein/fat)
- Easily digestible ingredients
- No harmful fillers (corn, soy, wheat gluten)
- Shallow, whisker-fatigue-free bowl designs
- Non-porous, easy-to-sanitize materials (stainless steel, ceramic)
- Formulated for kitten growth (high protein/fat)
- Easily digestible ingredients
- No harmful fillers (corn, soy, wheat gluten)
- Shallow, whisker-fatigue-free bowl designs
- Non-porous, easy-to-sanitize materials (stainless steel, ceramic)
- Formulated for kitten growth (high protein/fat)
- Easily digestible ingredients
- No harmful fillers (corn, soy, wheat gluten)
- Shallow, whisker-fatigue-free bowl designs
- Non-porous, easy-to-sanitize materials (stainless steel, ceramic)
- Formulated for kitten growth (high protein/fat)
- Easily digestible ingredients
- No harmful fillers (corn, soy, wheat gluten)
- Shallow, whisker-fatigue-free bowl designs
- Non-porous, easy-to-sanitize materials (stainless steel, ceramic)
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Looking for a complete care timeline beyond supplies? You can explore our full kitten care guide week by week for ages 0–12 weeks.
Explore All Categories
From their first meal to their favorite toy, find top-rated picks for every stage of kittenhood
Kitten Milk Replacer
Hartz Kitten Milk Replacer Powder (11 oz)
Affordable, gentle nutrition for healthy kittens aged 0–6 weeks.
Why it matters: A reliable budget alternative that provides complete, kitten-safe nutrition for early bottle-feeding. Suitable for healthy kittens who don’t require premium formulas.
PetAg KMR Kitten Milk Replacer Powder (12 oz)
The industry-standard formula trusted by vets and shelters for newborn and orphaned kittens.
Why it matters: KMR is the gold-standard for kittens who need full nutritional support. Its gentle, highly digestible formula is ideal for neonatal, orphaned, or underweight kittens.
PetAg KMR Ready-to-Feed Kitten Milk Replacer (4-pack)
No-mix liquid formula for instant, mess-free feeding—ideal for travel and emergencies.
Why it matters: A premium, ready-to-use option perfect for on-the-go feeding, fosters, and emergency situations when mixing powder isn’t convenient. Trusted formulation from the KMR line.
Weaning Food (Wet Food)
Fancy Feast Kitten Tender Chicken Pate
Soft, kitten-safe pâté that’s perfect for 4–12 week weaning.
Why it matters: A very affordable, gentle pâté that helps kittens transition from milk to solids. Easily mixed with KMR for early slurry feeding.
Royal Canin Mother & Babycat Ultra-Soft Mousse
Industry gold standard for weaning—ultra-soft mousse gentle on tiny stomachs (4–8 weeks).
Why it matters: Designed specifically for the weaning window, this mousse encourages lapping while minimizing digestive upset. Ideal for early transition from milk to solids.
Royal Canin Kitten Loaf in Sauce
Premium smooth loaf texture designed for kittens 6–12 weeks—ideal after Babycat mousse.
Why it matters: A higher-quality step-up from Babycat Mousse. Its smooth loaf texture is safer than sliced formulas and gentle on developing digestive systems during mid-weaning.
Low-Sided Litter Box
Petmate Small Low-Entry Litter Pan (14″ × 10.5″ × 3.5″)
Lightweight, low-entry pan that’s easy for tiny kittens to access and simple to clean.
Why it matters: Low sides let tiny kittens enter and exit easily, preventing accidents and encouraging good litter habits from Day One.
PAWISE Kitten Litter Box Starter Kit (Box + Scoop + Bowl)
All-in-one starter kit with a shallow 3.3″ entry, scoop, and small bowl—everything to begin litter training safely.
Why it matters: Includes the basic tools for Day One litter training in one box. Shallow entry and included scoop make cleaning and training simple for new owners.
TomteNisse Adjustable Height Front-Entry Litter Box (3″–5″)
Adjustable entry height with odor shield — starts low for kittens and raises as they grow.
Why it matters: Start with a shallow entry that is simple for kittens then increase side height as they mature. Built for longevity and fewer odors in your home.
Unscented Non-Clumping Kitten Litter
Honeycare All-Absorb Tofu Pellet Cat Litter
Tofu-based, unscented pellet litter that is non-clumping and gentle for young kittens.
Why it matters: A lightweight, plant-based option that reduces ingestion risk for tiny kittens while providing an unscented, low-dust surface for early litter training.
Fresh News Recycled Paper Cat Litter
Paper-based, low-dust litter that is soft and gentle for kittens learning to use the box.
Why it matters: Recycled paper pellets provide an absorbent, low-dust surface that reduces respiratory risk and is gentle for 4–12 week kittens during training.
Ökocat Natural Wood Pellet Litter (Unscented)
Biodegradable wood-fiber pellets with natural odor control and low dust for sensitive kittens.
Why it matters: A natural, low-dust pellet that reduces odor and is gentle if kittens accidentally ingest small amounts. Environmentally friendly and suitable for sensitive homes.
Kitten Bed (Plush Donut / Soft Nest)
MidWest Homes for Pets Fleece Cat Bed (18″ Cinnamon)
Machine-washable fleece donut bed with low sides that fits carriers — perfect for tiny kittens and travel.
Why it matters: A washable, low-profile soft nest that keeps kittens warm and secure without loose parts or strings. Verified on the product listing. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Hoewina Calming Donut Bed 20″ Plush Fluffy
Plush faux-fur calming donut bed with a non-slip base and machine washable cover — self-warming feel for snug kittens.
Why it matters: Designed to comfort and calm kittens as they transition to homes. Machine washable and sized for small kittens. Verified across regional listings. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
Bedsure Calming Cat Bed 20″ Non-Slip Ultra-Plush
Ultra-plush faux fur with thick filling and a non-slip bottom — machine washable for easy cleaning.
Why it matters: High-quality plush for extra warmth and support. Machine-washable and built for durability as kittens grow. Verified on the product listing. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
Heartbeat Plush Toy (for Orphans)
All For Paws (AFP) Heartbeat Plush Toy — Brown Puppy
Soft fleece toy with a battery heartbeat and washable cover to comfort orphaned kittens.
Why it matters: Simulates the warmth and rhythm of a mother for orphaned kittens. No loose parts. Use under supervision and follow battery safety instructions. (Add SiteStripe)
Calmeroos Heartbeat Plush Toy for Cats & Kittens (with Heat Pack)
Combined heartbeat and removable heat pack design built for kitten comfort and safety.
Why it matters: Provides both gentle heartbeat simulation and low-heat warmth for orphans. Use per instructions and supervise with very young kittens. (Add SiteStripe)
SmartPetLove Snuggle Kitty — Real-Feel Heartbeat & Heat Pack
Rescue-approved toy with realistic heartbeat and safe heat pack. Washable plush designed for orphaned kittens.
Why it matters: Widely used by rescues and fosters to calm orphaned kittens. Use per manufacturer safety instructions for batteries and heat components. (Add SiteStripe)
Soft Slicker Brush
Li’l Pals Kitten Slicker Brush with Coated Tips
Micro-size head and fully coated soft pins give ultra-gentle grooming for tiny kittens.
Why it matters: Safest budget brush for 0–12 week kittens. Coated tips reduce skin irritation and the smaller head is easier to control when introducing handling. (Add SiteStripe)
Magic Coat Professional Series Cat Slicker Brush
Coated pins and a cat-sized head make this a durable, gentle brush for older kittens and daily grooming.
Why it matters: Best pick for 8–12 week kittens when you need a slightly larger head and tougher build for regular brushing. Gentle when used carefully. (Add SiteStripe)
Premium Soft-Coated Tip Cat Slicker Brush
Premium coated tips and a softer bristle pad for very gentle grooming and longer tool life.
Why it matters: Softer pad and premium materials reduce pull and discomfort during grooming while giving better longevity. Good choice for owners who plan frequent handling. (Add SiteStripe)
Kitten Nail Clippers
Gonicc Professional Pet Nail Clippers (Small Angled)
Small scissor-style clippers with semi-circular angled blades and non-slip grip for safe kitten trimming.
Why it matters: Budget-friendly tool with enough precision for gently clipping tiny kitten nails. Always trim only the clear tip of the claw. (Add SiteStripe)
Pet Nail Clippers for Indoor Cats & Small Animals
Precision angled blades designed for kittens and small pets, offering safer trims with a steady grip.
Why it matters: A step up in control and comfort. Angled kitten/small animal design helps prevent over-cutting as kittens grow. (Add SiteStripe)
Zen Clipper Precise – Junior (Adjustable Safer Trimmer)
Patented adjustable stop prevents cutting too far, giving premium control for delicate kitten claws.
Why it matters: The adjustable safety stop helps prevent hitting the quick — ideal for new kitten owners who want extra control and confidence. (Add SiteStripe)
Teething Toys
Petstages Orkakat Wiggle Worm
Soft mesh worm toy designed to massage gums and ease early teething discomfort.
Why it matters: Plush-mesh hybrid texture helps soothe gum irritation for 8–12 week kittens. Must be used with supervision because it contains soft stuffing. (Add SiteStripe)
Potaroma Natural Silvervine / Matatabi Chew Sticks
100% natural chew sticks that safely ease teething discomfort with no small parts.
Why it matters: Best all-around teething pick for 0–12 weeks (with supervision). Durable, natural, and safe for mouthing without risk of choking. (Add SiteStripe)
Potaroma Refillable Natural Catnip Cleaning Teeth Toy
Premium refillable dental chew toy with soft texture and natural ingredients.
Why it matters: High-quality soft chew toy with refillable catnip pocket. No small detachable parts. Great for supervised teething sessions. (Add SiteStripe)
Interactive Puzzle Feeder
2-Pack Silicone Slow Feeder Cat Bowl (Flower Vortex)
Food-grade silicone slow-feeder with shallow ridges and no detachable parts for safe nibbling.
Why it matters: Designed for strict 0–12 week use when filled with tiny kibble or soft food. Keeps eating slow and safe for tiny mouths. Always supervise.
PetSafe SlimCat Interactive Feeder Ball
Lightweight treat/food ball with adjustable openings to control dispensing and difficulty.
Why it matters: Set to the most open setting for tiny kittens to encourage exploration and slow feeding. Supervised play recommended for 0–12 weeks.
Catit Small Treat Ball (Adjustable Difficulty)
Premium small treat ball with smooth adjustable opening and kitten-safe dimensions.
Why it matters: Use on the easiest setting for 0–12 weeks. Great durability and brand trust make it a long-term enrichment tool as the kitten grows.
Hard-Sided Carrier
Ferplast Jet Pet Carrier
Lightweight, small hard-sided carrier made for safe short trips and first vet visits.
Why it matters: Ideal as a first carrier for 0–12 week kittens. Smooth interior and good ventilation. Use a small towel for cushioning and extra warmth. (Add SiteStripe)
Petmate Two-Door Top Load Carrier
Top-loading two-door carrier that makes handling tiny kittens safer and stress-free for vet visits.
Why it matters: Top-load design reduces stress and risk for tiny kittens during transport and vet handling. Sturdy construction and good ventilation make it the best overall pick for Day One. (Add SiteStripe)
AmazonBasics Two-Door Top Load Hard Shell Carrier
Sturdy top-load carrier with excellent ventilation and durable construction for longer-term use.
Why it matters: Best for owners who want a heavy-duty carrier that lasts. For tiny kittens use a towel to reduce open space. Excellent for vet visits and travel. (Add SiteStripe)
Kitten-Proofing Supplies
Secbolt Cord Protectors (Anti-Chew Cable Cover)
Rigid split-shell cord covers that prevent chewing and block access to electrical wiring.
Why it matters: Essential for chargers, lamps, and appliance cords. Durable hard shell prevents nibbling and reduces electrical risk for curious kittens. Install on visible low cords first. (Add SiteStripe)
Safety 1st Plug Protectors (Outlet Covers)
Baby-grade outlet covers that prevent paw insertion and reduce electrical shock risk.
Why it matters: Kittens are natural explorers. Cover exposed outlets in kitten-accessible rooms to remove a major electrical hazard. These are inexpensive and effective. (Add SiteStripe)
Furniture Anti-Tip Straps (Metal Hardware)
Heavy-duty metal straps and anchors to secure furniture and prevent tipping when kittens climb.
Why it matters: Secures tall or heavy furniture to the wall to prevent dangerous tip-over accidents if curious kittens climb or jump. Recommended from ~8 weeks onward. (Add SiteStripe)