⚡ In short
- Kittens usually join a new home at 8–12 weeks.
- Feed kitten food in 4–5 small meals a day; no cow's milk.
- The core vaccine series starts at 8–9 weeks; the final dose is at 16 weeks or older.
- Cables, string and especially lilies are dangerous for kittens.
Feeding
| Age | Meals | Note |
|---|---|---|
| 8–12 weeks | 4–5 small meals | Mix wet and dry |
| 3–6 months | 3–4 meals | Fast growth |
| 6–12 months | 2–3 meals | Switch to adult food gradually around 1 year |
- Always use kitten food.
- No cow's milk — most cats can't digest lactose.
- Fresh water always available.
Litter training
- Place the kitten in the litter box after waking and 10–15 minutes after meals.
- Keep the box away from food and water, in a quiet spot.
- Scoop daily and change the litter weekly.
- Don't punish accidents; clean with an enzyme cleaner.
Vaccines, parasites and the first vet visit
- First vet visit: within the first week.
- Deworming before vaccines; your vet sets the schedule.
- Core vaccines: start at 8–9 weeks, repeat every 2–4 weeks, final dose at 16 weeks or older, revaccination at 26 weeks.
- Rabies: per local law. FeLV: recommended for kittens under 1 year.
- Spay/neuter: usually at 4–6 months — see our spay & neuter guide.
Kitten-proof your home
- Tidy away cables; remove string, hair ties and small swallowable items.
- Lilies are extremely toxic to cats — even pollen can cause kidney failure.
- Check the washing machine and dryer before closing.
- Fit nets on windows and balconies.
- Keep medicines, cleaning products and chocolate out of reach.
Kittens sleep 16–20 hours a day — that's normal.
Frequently asked questions
How often should a kitten eat?
8–12-week-old kittens eat 4–5 small meals a day; 3–4 meals at 3–6 months and 2–3 at 6–12 months.
Can kittens drink milk?
Not cow's milk — most cats can't digest lactose. Very young kittens can have kitten milk replacer.
When does a kitten get its first vaccine?
Usually at 8–9 weeks, with the final dose at 16 weeks or older.