Getting a puppy or kitten for Christmas can be one of the most memorable, joyous moments in a person’s life. But after the bows and ribbons are in the trash and the ornaments are packed away, life goes back to normal, and reality sets in. So now what?
The truth is, now that the Christmas magic has worn off, you now have a 12-15-year commitment on your hands. The more time and effort you invest into raising your new pet, the better. You will definitely thank yourself, and it will pay off in the long run!
Owning a pet isn’t all fun and games, and if this is your first pet, it’s important to know that a lot of effort, time, and resources will go into caring for your new furry friend. But don’t worry! You don’t have to navigate being a pet owner alone; in this blog, we’re going to break down everything you’ll need to do to welcome your new pet into your home and set them up for a long and healthy life.
New Pet Checklist
When adding a puppy or kitten to your family, there are a few key supplies you’ll want to have on hand immediately to help them settle into their new home and start their life off on the right paw. To help you get started, we’ve compiled a list of what you’ll need – some of which you may have even gotten as other gifts or may have on hand from other pets in your house.
Essential Items for a New Puppy
- Food and Feeding
- Puppy food (appropriate for size and breed)
- Food and water bowls (preferably non-tip and easy to clean)
- Sleeping and Comfort
- Comfortable puppy bed or crate
- Blankets for warmth
- Training and Behavior
- Puppy training pads or outdoor waste bags
- Collar, leash, and ID tag
- Chew toys for teething
- Training treats
- Baby gates or playpen for confined spaces
- Grooming and Hygiene
- Puppy shampoo and conditioner
- Brush or comb suited for their coat type
- Nail clippers or grinder
- Toothbrush and dog-safe toothpaste
- Health and Safety
- Flea, tick, and heartworm preventatives (consult your veterinarian)
- Pet-safe cleaning supplies for accidents
Essential Items for a New Kitten
- Food and Feeding
- Kitten food (wet and/or dry, suitable for their age)
- Food and water bowls (ceramic or stainless steel preferred)
- Sleeping and Comfort
- Cozy bed or blanket-lined box
- Soft, secure hiding spots
- Litter and Hygiene
- Litter box (low-sided for kittens)
- Litter (unscented and kitten-safe)
- Scoop and mat for the litter area
- Play and Enrichment
- Interactive toys (feather wands, balls, or plush mice)
- Scratching posts or cat trees
- Grooming and Hygiene
- Brush or comb for their coat type
- Kitten-safe shampoo (if needed)
- Nail trimmers
- Health and Safety
- Flea and tick preventatives (consult your veterinarian)
- Kitten-specific carrier for vet visits or travel
Essential Health Care for Your New Pet
Ensuring the health and well-being of your new pet is a top priority. To start out their new life on the right paw, we strongly recommend scheduling a routine physical exam for your dog or cat to assess their current health status. Following your veterinarian’s advice is crucial for your pet's health and happiness, so be sure to establish a relationship with an experienced veterinarian early on!
When taking your new pet to the vet for their first wellness visit, you can expect it to play out like this:
- Check-in and medical history: Upon arrival, a staff member will check you in, ask about the reason for your visit, and gather your pet's medical history, including previous vaccinations, medications, and any current health concerns. If you received a younger pet, like a puppy or kitten, be sure to bring any records or paperwork given to you by the breeder or rescue; that paperwork will often detail their early health and any treatments they may have received elsewhere.
- Physical examination: The veterinarian will perform a comprehensive physical exam, examining your pet's eyes, ears, teeth, mouth, skin, coat, lymph nodes, heart, lungs, abdomen, and limbs to ensure everything looks good and that there are no signs of illness or injury.
- Weight check: Your pet will be weighed to identify any weight concerns and to establish a baseline of their size for future veterinary visits.
- Discussion and treatment plan: Based on the examination and your pet's medical history, the vet will discuss any potential diagnoses, recommended treatments, vaccinations, or necessary diagnostics like bloodwork or urine analysis.
- Questions and concerns: Don’t be shy when it comes to asking questions or voicing any concerns! This is a good time to ask any questions you have about your pet's health, behavior, or treatment options. You may also ask for recommendations on more specific topics like socialization or nutrition.
- Follow-up appointments: If needed, the vet will schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor your pet's progress or administer further treatments. Alternatively, you can also take this time to get on the schedule for your next wellness visit! It’s recommended that all pets, regardless of their health status, see a veterinarian regularly to keep them in tip top shape.
In addition to that initial veterinarian visit, there are a few key topics that are crucial to address early on to keep your pet healthy. Let’s talk about them now.
Vaccines & Immunization
When it comes to early care for a new pet, vaccines should be considered non-negotiable. Vaccines are crucial to protecting your new pet and laying a strong foundation for lifelong health and immune function.
It is ideal that dogs and cats start an immunization schedule between six and eight weeks of age. For dogs, the routine vaccines most commonly recommended by veterinarians will protect them from eight diseases – many of which are potentially fatal – including distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, parvovirus, bordetella, rabies, and leptovirus. Vaccinations for cats will defend against diseases including feline rhinotracheitis, feline calicivirus, feline panleukopenia, rabies, and feline feline leukemia virus.
For both dogs and cats, you’ll need to visit your veterinarian for boosters and other recommended, age-appropriate vaccinations, so keeping up to date with vaccine dosages and recommendations will be a constant throughout your pet's life.
For veterinarian approved recommendations and explanations on core and non-core vaccines, check out our guides:
- What Are the Core and Non-Core Vaccines For Dogs? All of Your Dog Vaccinations FAQs Answered
- What Are the Core and Non-Core Vaccines for Cats? Your Questions Answered
Deworming
Intestinal parasites are common in puppies and kittens, but can thankfully be treated alongside your veterinarian. Pets can become infected with them before they are born or through their mother’s milk, so regardless of how clean and sanitary your new pet’s environment has been, it’s always a good idea to have them checked for worms and dewormed if necessary.
For all of the facts on deworming and how worms in dogs and carts are diagnosed and treated, check out our full deworming guides.
Flea Control
Fleas are more than just an itchy annoyance; they can lead to serious health issues for your pet, including anemia, tapeworms, and skin infections. Starting your pet on flea prevention early and continuing it year-round is essential to keeping their skin healthy, and irritation-free.
Flea preventatives come in various forms, including topical treatments, oral medications, and flea collars. Be sure to consult with your veterinarian to choose the safest and most effective option for your new pet.
Nutrition
Proper nutrition is a cornerstone of good health for your new pet, and is something well worth putting a little extra time and effort into. Puppies and kittens have specific dietary needs to support their growth and development, so choosing age-appropriate food is critical.
When feeding your pet, be mindful of portion sizes, and avoid feeding table scraps or human foods, as these can upset their stomachs or be toxic. If you’re unsure about the best diet for your pet, your veterinarian can provide guidance tailored to their needs and individual health status.
Check out these guides for more advice on setting your pet’s nutrition plan:
- Optimizing Feline Health with Every Bite: A Doctor’s Discussion on the Nutritional Needs Through a Cat's Life
- Understanding Your Dog’s Nutritional Needs for Different Life Stages
Spaying & Neutering
Spaying or neutering your pet not only helps control the pet population but also offers numerous health benefits for dogs and cats. For example, spaying female pets reduces the risk of uterine infections and certain cancers, while neutering male pets can reduce behavioral issues and prevent testicular cancer.
Most veterinarians recommend scheduling this procedure around six months of age, but the timing can vary based on your pet’s breed and size, so be sure to check in with your veterinarian during a vet visit to see what they recommend for your pet’s individual case.
Making a Safe Space for Your New Pet
Your new companion is most likely going to be a curious creature, and we want them to be able to explore their new forever home! Knowing what items in and around the house may be a potential danger for your pet is important and can keep your pet out of trouble when they try to taste-test their new environment.
Here are some common hazards to watch out for and safer alternatives to ensure your pet's health and safety:
Household Hazards
- Toxic Plants: Many common houseplants, such as lilies, philodendrons, and pothos, are toxic to pets. Replace these with pet-friendly options like spider plants, areca palms, or Boston ferns.
- Cleaning Supplies: Curious noses can lead to accidental ingestion of harmful chemicals like bleach, detergents, and disinfectants. Store all cleaning products securely in cabinets with childproof locks.
- Electrical Cords: Puppies and kittens love to chew, and electrical cords can be a tempting target. Use cord protectors or conceal wires behind furniture to prevent shocks or burns.
- Human Foods: Foods like chocolate, grapes, onions, and anything containing xylitol can be toxic to pets. Keep all food out of reach and use trash cans with secure lids.
- Small Objects: Buttons, coins, and small toys can become choking hazards. Regularly sweep the floor for loose items, especially in high-traffic areas.
Outdoor Hazards
- Toxic Plants and Flowers: In the yard, avoid planting species like azaleas, foxglove, and oleander, which can be deadly if ingested. Opt for pet-safe plants like sunflowers, marigolds, and roses.
- Fertilizers and Pesticides: Chemicals used for gardening and pest control can be highly toxic. Use pet-friendly, organic alternatives, and keep pets away from treated areas until they are dry and safe.
- Standing Water: Puddles and birdbaths may harbor harmful bacteria or parasites like leptospirosis. Always provide fresh water for your pet and discourage drinking from unknown sources.
- Sharp or Loose Items: Tools, lawn equipment, and sharp objects can pose serious risks. Store these securely and keep outdoor areas clear of debris.
- Wildlife and Insects: Puppies and kittens may be tempted to chase or interact with bees, snakes, or even poisonous toads. Supervise outdoor time and consider using a fenced-in area to keep them safe.
General Safety Tips
- Create a Pet-Safe Zone: Designate a specific area in your home for your pet, free from hazards, with safe toys and bedding.
- Regular Inspections: Routinely check your home and yard for any new potential risks, especially as your puppy or kitten grows and becomes more mobile.
- Supervision Saves: Always supervise your pet during playtime, both indoors and outside, to prevent accidents.
Training Your New Pet
Crate Training
Crate training can provide your pet with a safe, secure space to call their own – and it can be done for both dogs and cats! When introduced correctly, a crate can become a comforting den for your puppy or kitten. It’s also an invaluable tool for house training and preventing destructive behaviors. Start with short periods in the crate and gradually increase the time, always rewarding your pet for positive behavior.
Potty Training & Litterbox Training
House training a puppy and litterbox training a kitten are essential skills for any house pet to help keep sanity in the home. For puppies, consistency is key. Take them outside frequently, especially after meals or naps, and reward them immediately for going in the appropriate spot.
For kittens, place the litterbox in a quiet, easily accessible location, and keep it clean to encourage use. Accidents are bound to happen, so patience and positive reinforcement will go a long way in making their training a positive and rewarding experience!
Basic Obedience
Teaching basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come” is fundamental for your pet’s safety and your peace of mind. Training sessions should be short, fun, and filled with positive reinforcement. Use treats or praise to reward good behavior, and avoid punishment, which can lead to fear or anxiety. Early obedience training sets the stage for a well-behaved pet that can go on to master more difficult types of training, like trick training and advanced obedience training.
Socialization
Socializing your pet helps them feel comfortable in various environments and with different people and animals. For puppies, puppy classes or playdates can be a great way to introduce them to new experiences and get them comfortable in a variety of situations, from the dog park to boarding facilities, and everything between.
Socialization for kittens looks a little different due to many of them remaining indoor-only pets that are not often taken outside of the house. Kittens benefit from gentle handling and exposure to household noises and other pets. Start work on socialization early to raise a confident, well-adjusted companion that isn’t reactionary, and can handle any situation from meeting new people and going new places, to being introduced to other pets.
Enrichment and Exercise for Your New Pet
Physical and mental stimulation are vital for your pet’s health and happiness. For dogs, daily walks, playtime, and interactive toys can help burn off energy and prevent boredom.
Cats enjoy activities like chasing feather toys, climbing cat trees, or exploring puzzle feeders. Regular exercise and enrichment keep your pet engaged and promote overall well-being.
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