Pawademy

Tag: essentials

  • A kitten at home: what to buy and how to prepare

    A kitten at home: what to buy and how to prepare

    Bringing a kitten home is exciting, but good preparation makes all the difference. A safe environment and the right essentials will help your new pet settle in quickly, feel secure and adapt more easily to your home routine.

    In this guide, we explain how to prepare for a kitten so your first days together feel calm, comfortable and stress-free.

    Prepare your home in advance

    For a small kitten, even ordinary household items can be risky. The calmer and safer the space feels at the beginning, the easier the adjustment period will be.

    Make your home safe

    • Hide electrical cords and cables your kitten could chew.
    • Keep cleaning products, medicines and small objects out of reach.
    • Check your windows. Use secure screens or safe ventilation locks.
    • Make sure your houseplants are safe for cats, as some are toxic.
    • If you have high surfaces, limit access at first so your kitten cannot climb and fall during play.

    If you have small children

    Explain in advance that a kitten is not a toy, but a living animal that also needs time to adjust to a new home. The first few days are especially important for a calm start.

    It helps to agree on a few simple rules:

    • do not pick up the kitten without an adult
    • do not wake the kitten while it is sleeping
    • do not pull the tail, paws or ears
    • do not shout nearby or scare the kitten
    • always let the kitten walk away or hide
    • use proper toys for play, not hands

    A gentle introduction helps both the child and the kitten become true friends.

    Keep the first days stress-free

    Prepare a quiet corner where your kitten can rest. On day one, avoid too much attention or excitement. Your kitten needs time to explore new smells, observe the space and feel safe.

    There is no need to introduce every room right away. At first, one area with a bed, water, food and a litter box is enough. This helps your kitten adjust to the new environment and daily routine.

    What to buy first

    Here are the essentials to have ready before your kitten arrives:

    1. Food and water bowls

    You will need at least two bowls: one for water and one for food. If you plan to serve both dry and wet food, having a third bowl is helpful.

    Choose sturdy ceramic or stainless steel bowls. They are safe, easy to clean and long-lasting. Fresh water should always be available.

    2. Litter box and litter

    Choose a litter box that suits your kitten’s size. Your pet should be able to step in easily and turn around comfortably. For very young kittens, low-sided boxes are usually best. Place the litter box in a quiet area away from noise and drafts. There are many litter types, and the best option often comes down to trial and observation. If your kitten is already used to a certain litter, it is best not to change it right away.

    3. Food

    The right diet depends on your kitten’s age, breed and your veterinarian’s advice. Young kittens need food specially formulated for growth. Avoid sudden diet changes. If your kitten was eating something different before, switch gradually over several days.

    4. Carrier

    A carrier is useful for much more than vet visits. It keeps your kitten safe during travel and can also become a cozy hiding spot at home. Choose a sturdy carrier with good ventilation and a secure door. Leave it open regularly so your kitten can start seeing it as a familiar and safe place.

    5. Scratching post

    A scratching post helps protect furniture and gives your kitten a natural place to scratch and maintain its claws. Place it near your kitten’s future resting area. To make it more appealing, choose one with a hanging toy or add a little catnip.

    6. Toys

    Toys are essential for healthy development and mental stimulation. Shared playtime also helps build trust between you and your kitten. Choose balls, wand toys and soft safe toys without small detachable parts.

    What you need for kitten care

    Here are a few essentials for regular care and overall health:

    1. Grooming basics

    Useful items may include:

    • a brush or comb
    • nail clippers
    • pet wipes
    • shampoo, if needed

    Do not use products made for humans. They are not suitable for animals’ sensitive skin. At first, a basic set is enough, along with gentle introductions to grooming routines.

    2. Parasite protection

    Even indoor cats need protection from external and internal parasites. Drops and tablets should always be chosen based on age and weight, as unsuitable products may be unsafe.

    3. When to see a vet

    A routine check-up soon after bringing your kitten home is a smart idea. A veterinarian can assess overall health, recommend vaccinations, advise on parasite prevention and answer feeding or care questions. If your kitten loses appetite, becomes lethargic or develops digestive issues, seek veterinary care without delay.

    Common issues in the first weeks

    Every kitten adjusts differently. Temporary challenges are common at first and are usually resolved with patience, calm routines and consistency.

    1. Not eating

    After moving to a new home, a kitten may refuse food because of stress. Give it time, keep the environment calm and make sure fresh water is always available. If appetite does not return within 24 hours or other symptoms appear, contact a veterinarian.

    2. Hiding

    This is a normal response to a new environment. Do not pull your kitten out by force. It will come out when it feels more confident. A calm voice and predictable surroundings will help your kitten settle in faster.

    3. Not using the litter box

    The cause may be stress, an inconvenient location or an unsuitable litter box. Keep the area clean and remove strong smells nearby. You can also try a litter training aid.

    4. Biting and scratching

    Your kitten may bite or scratch while playing, defending itself or burning off energy. Redirect attention to toys and avoid encouraging play with hands. With patience and consistency, this behavior usually improves over time.

    Taking good care of a kitten is not only important for health, but also a wonderful way to build a strong bond during the first stage of your life together. A happy kitten will thank you with gentle purring and affection.

  • Top 5 essentials for every cat owner

    Top 5 essentials for every cat owner

    Taking good care of a cat involves more than just a litter box, food bowls and toys. There are a few everyday essentials that help support your cat’s health, comfort and overall well-being. Here are five useful items worth having at home.

    1. Brush or grooming comb

    Regular brushing helps remove loose fur, reduce mats and noticeably cut down on shedding around the home. Despite the common myth, grooming is important for all cats with fur, not only long-haired breeds.

    It can also become a great bonding moment that helps build trust between you and your cat.

    2. Nail clippers

    If your cat’s claws do not wear down naturally, they may need occasional trimming. For this, it is best to use nail clippers made specifically for pets, as they are safer and easier to handle than regular scissors.

    Important: Only trim the clear tip of the claw and avoid the sensitive inner part. If your cat gets nervous, it is perfectly fine to split the task into several short sessions.

    3. Parasite protection

    Even indoor cats need protection from fleas, ticks and internal parasites. There are different options available, including spot-on treatments, tablets and pastes. The right product should always be chosen according to your cat’s age and weight.

    4. Wipes, soft pads and cotton swabs

    Useful items for small daily care tasks: wiping the eyes, removing dirt from the coat or gently cleaning the chin and paws after coming home.

    5. Toothbrush and toothpaste for cats

    Dental care is often overlooked. Regular oral hygiene helps reduce the risk of plaque, dental disease and gum problems. Cats should only use toothbrushes and toothpaste designed specifically for pets.

    To complete your basic setup, keep a simple pet first-aid kit at home and save the contact details of a trusted veterinarian.

  • How to help a kitten you found outside

    How to help a kitten you found outside

    Found a kitten outside and decided to bring it home? The first few hours can feel overwhelming. How do you get the kitten home safely, what should you feed it, where should it stay and what comes next? Here is a simple guide to help you through the first days together.

    Make sure the kitten really needs help

    A kitten alone does not always mean an abandoned kitten. The mother cat may be nearby. One important note: very young kittens that are still blind need a nursing mother or bottle-feeding with kitten formula on a strict schedule. That is a separate topic. This guide is for kittens that can already eat on their own — usually from around three weeks old, ideally four weeks or older.

    If the kitten is near a road, looks weak, dirty, underweight or seems to have been alone for a long time, it is best to step in quickly.

    Bring the kitten home safely

    Use a pet carrier, a box with air holes or a container lined with a soft towel or blanket. The kitten should not be able to jump out and should feel secure during the trip.

    Do not carry the kitten in your hands in the car or outside. If possible, use a towel, blanket, gloves or a carrier first, and avoid unnecessary hand contact until the first veterinary check-up.

    First steps at home

    1. A quiet space of their own

    Set up a small calm area: a separate room, a quiet corner or a large crate/playpen. During the first few days, many kittens adjust more easily in a smaller safe space than in the whole home right away.

    2. Warmth and rest

    Even an older kitten may arrive scared and cold after life outside. Give them a chance to hide, warm up and catch their breath.

    3. Water and food

    Provide fresh water and offer age-appropriate kitten food. Start with small portions. There is no need to give too much food at once out of pity.

    Add a litter box

    Place an easy-to-access litter box near the resting area, but not right next to the food and water bowls.

    You may also like our guide A kitten at home: what to buy and how to prepare, where we cover the essentials for a smooth start.

    What to do in the next few days

    1. Book a vet visit

    A veterinary check-up should be one of your first priorities. The kitten should be assessed for overall condition, eyes, skin, abdomen, parasites, approximate age and general health.

    2. Start parasite treatment

    Any treatment should be chosen based on the kitten’s age and weight.

    3. Plan vaccinations

    Your veterinarian will tell you when it is the right time to begin vaccinations.

    Keep pets separated at first

    If you already have a cat or dog, do not introduce them immediately. Keep the new kitten in a separate room for the first two weeks.

    Help the kitten settle in

    • keep noise to a minimum
    • do not force contact
    • allow time to explore and feel safe
    • play gently and in short sessions
    • keep a calm daily routine
    • speak in a soft voice

    Some kittens climb into your arms right away. Others need a few days.

    Essentials to buy first

    • food and water bowls
    • kitten food
    • litter box and litter
    • a bed or blanket
    • a toy
    • a carrier

    If you decided to take a found kitten home, the most important things in the first days are safety, calm surroundings, basic care and a veterinary check-up. Do not worry if everything is not perfect right away. For a kitten like this, even simple care, safety and a peaceful home can already change life for the better.

  • A puppy at home: what to buy and how to prepare

    A puppy at home: what to buy and how to prepare

    Getting a puppy is exciting, but it also changes your daily routine completely. The first few weeks are usually about feeding schedules, sleep, potty training and overall adjustment. The better you prepare in advance, the less stressful it will be for both the puppy and your household.

    Your main goal at the start is to create a safe environment, get the essentials ready and understand what to expect in the first days.

    What to do before your puppy arrives

    1. Set up a safe area

    Your puppy needs a space where they can rest and feel secure, while still being easy to supervise. A kitchen, part of a room, a playpen or a gated area all work well.

    Why it helps:

    • reduces the risk of chewing unwanted items
    • makes potty training easier
    • helps establish a routine
    • prevents overwhelm from too much space

    2. Remove potential hazards

    Puppies explore the world with their mouths. Remove anything dangerous from their reach:

    • cables, chargers, extension cords
    • household chemicals
    • medications
    • trash bins
    • small objects
    • shoes
    • children’s toys
    • toxic plants (such as dieffenbachia, lily, aloe vera, ivy and cyclamen)
    • plastic bags, threads, rubber bands

    3. Plan for potty training

    Decide in advance where the puppy will go to the bathroom. This could be pee pads at home or a schedule of frequent outdoor trips if the puppy is old enough.

    Make sure you have:

    • pee pads
    • odor remover
    • wipes and paper towels

    Basic checklist: what to buy in advance

    1. Food and water

    • at least two stable bowls
    • the same food the puppy is currently eating
    • a measuring cup or kitchen scale
    • a container for food storage

    Tip: avoid changing your puppy’s diet right away unless necessary.

    2. Sleep and rest

    • a dog bed or mattress
    • a blanket

    Tip: choose a bed that is easy to wash.

    You can also check our article How to choose the right bed for your dog.

    3. Walks and training

    • a properly sized collar or harness
    • a lightweight leash
    • an ID tag
    • treats for training
    • waste bags for walks

    4. Home and safety

    • a playpen or divider
    • a few safe toys
    • chew toys
    • odor remover
    • a brush suited to your puppy’s coat type

    5. Health

    • contact details for a nearby veterinary clinic
    • a carrier for transport
    • a folder for documents, vaccinations and notes

    The first days at home

    On the first day, your puppy needs calm more than stimulation.

    It’s best to:

    • limit the number of visitors
    • show water, sleeping area and potty spot
    • let them explore at their own pace
    • keep your voice calm
    • avoid forcing interaction or play
    • observe more than you interfere

    The best preparation is not about buying everything, but about setting up your home properly. If the space is safe, the essentials are ready and the routine becomes clear over time, your puppy will adjust much more easily.

  • Essential grooming supplies for your dog

    Essential grooming supplies for your dog

    Dog care is not just about feeding and walks. To keep your dog comfortable day to day, it helps to have a basic set of grooming and hygiene essentials at home.

    You don’t need to buy everything at once or go for a full setup right away. It’s better to start with a practical core kit and add more as needed.

    Basic dog grooming checklist

    1. Coat care

    Important: different coat types require different tools.

    For short-haired breeds(such as Labrador Retrievers, Beagles, Pugs, Dobermans):

    • grooming glove
    • fine-tooth comb
    • brush for short coats
    • deshedding tool (for some coat types)

    For medium-haired breeds(such as Huskies or Corgis):

    • grooming glove
    • comb with mixed tooth lengths
    • deshedding tool
    • slicker brush
    • dematting tool (if needed)

    For long-haired breeds(such as Shih Tzus, Collies, Maltese and others), a more complete set is needed:

    • grooming glove
    • wide-tooth comb
    • fine-tooth comb
    • deshedding tool
    • slicker brush
    • dematting tool
    • scissors

    Dogs with wire-haired breeds do not have an undercoat, so deshedding tools and slicker brushes are not used. A suitable brush and a stripping comb are usually enough.

    2. Bathing and hygiene

    • dog shampoo
    • a separate towel
    • wipes or soft cloths for cleaning paws
    • conditioner (if needed)

    Human shampoos are not suitable for dogs.

    3. Paws and nails

    • nail clippers in the right size
    • nail file (optional)
    • paw balm or protective treatment

    Common mistakes

    • buying random products without considering the dog’s size
    • using human products instead of dog-specific ones
    • choosing cheap tools that are uncomfortable to use
    • buying too many items instead of starting with a basic set
    • not replacing consumables on time

    Good care is not about having a lot of tools, but about choosing the right ones. A simple, practical set that fits your dog and is used regularly is more than enough.