New Kitten Owner's Complete Guide
Essential guide for first-time cat owners - litter training, nutrition, healthcare basics, and local Laguna Woods resources for your new feline companion.
Table of Contents
1. Preparing Your Home
Kittens are curious explorers! Create a safe, stimulating environment with plenty of vertical space and hiding spots to help your new kitten feel secure.
Essential Supplies Checklist
Kitten-Proofing Your Home
Common Household Hazards for Cats
- • Lilies (extremely toxic - even pollen can be fatal)
- • String, yarn, and rubber bands (can cause intestinal blockage)
- • Essential oils and diffusers
- • Open windows without screens
- • Blinds with dangling cords
- • Toxic plants (tulips, azaleas, sago palms)
- • Human medications (especially Tylenol/acetaminophen)
Safe Room Setup
Start your kitten in one room with all essentials (food, water, litter box, bed, toys). This helps them feel secure and makes litter training easier. Gradually introduce them to other areas of your home over 1-2 weeks.
2. Vaccination Schedule
Vaccinations protect your kitten from serious, potentially fatal diseases. The FVRCP vaccine is essential for all cats, while other vaccines depend on lifestyle.
| Age | Core Vaccines | Non-Core (Lifestyle) |
|---|---|---|
| 6-8 weeks | FVRCP (1st dose) | FeLV test recommended |
| 9-11 weeks | FVRCP (2nd dose) | FeLV (1st dose if outdoor/multi-cat) |
| 12-14 weeks | FVRCP (3rd dose) | FeLV (2nd dose) |
| 15-17 weeks | FVRCP (4th dose), Rabies | — |
| 1 year | FVRCP booster, Rabies booster | FeLV booster if applicable |
What is FVRCP?
Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis (herpesvirus),Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia (feline distemper). These are highly contagious diseases that can be severe or fatal, especially in kittens.
Laguna Woods Cat Regulations
Under Laguna Woods regulations:
- • Cats 6 months or older must be spayed/neutered (or meet exemption requirements)
- • Maximum 3 cats and dogs combined per residence (no more than 2 dogs)
- • Indoor cats are strongly recommended for safety and wildlife protection
3. Nutrition & Feeding
Kittens have specific nutritional needs for their rapid growth. Feed a high-quality kitten food until they're about 12 months old.
Feeding Schedule by Age
Good for Cats
- • High-quality protein (chicken, fish, turkey)
- • Wet food for hydration
- • Fresh water available always
- • Taurine-enriched foods (essential!)
Toxic to Cats
- • Onions, garlic, chives
- • Chocolate
- • Grapes and raisins
- • Raw eggs and raw meat
- • Alcohol and caffeine
- • Dog food (lacks taurine)
Hydration Tip
Cats often don't drink enough water. Place multiple water bowls around your home, away from food and litter boxes. Many cats prefer running water - consider a cat water fountain to encourage drinking.
4. Litter Box Training
Most kittens instinctively use a litter box, but proper setup is crucial for success. Litter box problems are one of the top reasons cats are surrendered to shelters.
The Golden Rules
N+1 Rule
Have one litter box per cat, plus one extra
Location
Quiet, accessible area away from food and water
Size
Box should be 1.5x the length of your cat
Depth
2-3 inches of unscented, clumping litter
Cleaning
Scoop daily, full change weekly
Privacy
Open boxes are usually preferred over covered
Signs of Litter Box Problems
- • Eliminating outside the box
- • Straining or crying when using the box
- • Frequent trips to the litter box
- • Blood in urine or stool
These can indicate medical issues - see your vet immediately!
5. Health & Wellness
Signs Your Kitten is Healthy
Warning Signs - See a Vet
Dental Care
- • Start handling mouth early
- • Use cat-specific toothpaste
- • Provide dental treats and toys
- • Schedule professional cleanings
Spay/Neuter
Recommended at 4-6 months of age. Benefits include:
- • Prevents unwanted litters
- • Reduces cancer risk
- • Decreases spraying behavior
- • Required in Laguna Woods by 6 months
6. Laguna Woods Resources
Indoor Cats Recommended
Laguna Woods is home to wildlife including coyotes. For your cat's safety and to protect local wildlife, keeping cats indoors is strongly recommended. Indoor cats also live significantly longer on average.
Enrichment for Indoor Cats
- • Cat trees and perches near windows
- • Interactive toys and puzzle feeders
- • Regular play sessions (15+ min daily)
- • Bird feeders outside windows for "cat TV"
- • Secure "catio" or enclosed outdoor space
Laguna Woods Village Pet Club
The community offers resources for pet owners including:
- • Pet-related events and gatherings
- • Pet care information sharing
- • Connection with other pet owners
Important Local Contacts
Animal Services
(949) 497-3552
Animal Poison Control
(888) 426-4435
OC Vet Animal Hospital
(949) 688-1233
Pet Poison Helpline
(855) 764-7661
Ready for Your Kitten's First Vet Visit?
Schedule a wellness exam at OC Vet Animal Hospital in Laguna Woods. We'll create a personalized health plan for your new feline family member.