There is much and conflicting advice available when it comes to getting through the first couple of nights with your new kitten.
Many advocate the “start as you mean to go on” approach but that may be too severe for you and you may elect to sleep close to the kitten’s area for peace of mind. Again, there are no firm rules or regulations – only advice – but if you are going to lie awake and listen for mewling all night anyway, you may as well do it near to the kitten. It will only be for a short time (normally) and the rest of the family will thank you for an uninterrupted night.
Young kittens need a lot of sleep, so do not be surprised if there are regular naps throughout the day. This, of course, means that your kitten will be awake at intervals throughout the night. If all seems well, leave the kitten to wander around and get familiar with its surroundings. Before long, it will be time for another nap. After a few days, a routine will be established and kitty will soon learn to fit in with the family lifestyle.
To begin with, it may be a good idea to bed the kitten down by placing any familiar towel, sheet or piece of clothing inside the travel crate, leaving the door/gate open, and keep the new regular bed/basket until the settling-in period is past. This will offer security and comfort along with the opportunity to get out and explore. Always make sure that the sleeping area is warm and cosy, accessible, and well away from draughts.
I found two kittens about a few weeks ago abandoned at a park. I’ve never had a kitten before so I really wasn’t sure what to expect. I didn’t have a specified sleeping area like you suggested and they always seemed to crash wherever they ended up. They did like to nap under the couch for the first few days. It was probably the place they felt most secure.
Hi Jade
I hope you coped ok. It can be havoc even when you are prepared – and you did it without any knowledge – times 2. I am sure they have given you great fun.
Thank you for your comment.
Lynn
I have been toying with the idea of getting a kitten now for some time. I have young children who get me up at night anyway so I thought I wouldn’t mind that part too much, as long as it doesn’t go on forever. How long will it take before they are settled enough so they don’t cry all night??
Do you recommend locking them in a separate room for the night? I do not want to end up with a cat in my bed every night. If I am too soft on the kitten in the beginning, will there be no going back?
Thanks for an informative post!
Hi Kris and thanks for your comments.
As you probably know, all kittens are different as they have their own personalities and traits. They will settle at night much more quickly than your kids!
My kitten was with us for 2 weeks before he really settled but, to be honest, I spent a lot of time holding and cuddling him which is really not recommended.
It is important to create a designated and prepared area for bed, litter and toys away from food and drink bowls and apart from family areas, if you can. Kittens are inquisitive and will investigate wherever they are. I suggest that you set this up before getting a kitten and, at the same time, check out any potential danger zones.
Good luck
Lynn
Hi,
Thanks for sharing. When I got my first kitten, she was pretty young and I had no experience with kittens ever. I put her in the bathroom but she meowed a lot. So, I let her sleep with me and she went to bed right away. We had an immediate bond when I picked her at the shelter. She was the best kitten ever.
Sofia
Hi Sofia.
I was told a million things to do by so many people that I just ended up doing what was right for me. Kittens are so so cute, it is hard to listen to them crying.
I am so glad that you had a great experience and such good memories.
Thank you so much for your comment.
Lynn
This article really helps first time cat owners like myself. One of the things kittens tend to do is they meow constantly – even if you are in the room or they are already fed! I am at wits what’s going with them. Perhaps I will try your tips on creating a safe space for it so it won’t be so needy? Thanks for sharing this!
Hi there, Lilywong
Thank you for your comment. I am so pleased that you enjoyed the article and that it helped in some way. If you are like me, you will need all the help you can get. It is all worth it though. Wishing you good luck and good fun.
Lynn