Kittens grow quickly, but are still learning how to live alongside people. Prepare the space and leave time for sleep, exploration and gentle play. A kitten should be able to move away, hide and rest without being followed.

If you find a very young kitten without their mother, do not assume they have been abandoned. Contact a veterinary clinic or local animal-welfare organisation to decide what to do next: caring for newborns takes specialist knowledge.

White cat with ginger and dark patches in grass
Raphael Schaller ↗ · Unsplash License ↗

Food, sleep and the litter tray

Choose complete food made for kittens and follow the manufacturer’s or vet’s guidance. Young kittens usually need to eat more often than adults; provide an appropriate routine and fresh water. Do not replace their mother’s milk with cow’s milk, plant drinks or homemade formula.

Set up a quiet sleeping place and a litter tray the kitten can reach easily. At first, keep familiar food and litter if they suit the kitten. Let them sleep after play.

  • Prepare kitten food, water and a separate litter tray.
  • Provide several quiet places to sleep.
  • Do not disturb a kitten while they are resting.

Safe play and gentle introductions

Kittens develop coordination through play. Use suitable toys that can be moved along the floor; do not teach them to hunt hands and fingers. Frequent short sessions make it easier to stop before they are tired. Put away thread, small parts, open windows and plants that may be unsafe.

Introduce new sounds, people and safe household situations gradually. Do not force a kitten to meet visitors or other animals. If they go to hide, leave the route clear.

  • Play with a toy instead of your hands.
  • Put away strings and wand toys after play.
  • Introduce new people and animals gradually.

Make a plan with a vet

Register your kitten with a local clinic and discuss an examination, vaccinations, identification and parasite prevention based on their age and where you live. Bring any records from the previous owner or rescue. If the kitten seems weak, refuses food, has difficulty breathing or otherwise worries you, call a vet promptly.

SMALL STEPS OF CARE

What you can do

  • Ask about the kitten’s previous food, litter and care history.
  • Prepare a safe starter room.
  • Provide water, suitable meals and rest.
  • Arrange a veterinary consultation for your kitten.
  • Call a vet if the kitten worsens or stops eating.

What to avoid

  • Giving cow’s milk or homemade formula.
  • Waking the kitten for play or constantly picking them up.
  • Assuming a found kitten is abandoned without checking the situation.
  • Applying treatments without advice about age and product.

CHECKING IS CARING

Sources and further reading

Sources checked November 2, 2026. The editorial team prepared this guide from public recommendations; it has not received individual veterinary review.

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