The first month with a new puppy or kitten sets them up for life. It's also a lot to keep track of, so here's a simple checklist, week by week.
Before they come home
- Pet-proof your home. Tuck away cables, secure trash cans, move houseplants that are toxic to pets, and put away medicines, cleaning products and small objects that could be swallowed.
- Get the supplies: food (start with what they're eating now), bowls, a bed, a crate or carrier, a collar and ID tag, toys, and a litter tray for kittens.
- Choose a vet and book the first visit. See our guide, How to choose the right vet.
- Plan the routine. Agree who feeds, walks and cleans up, and which rules everyone will follow.
Week 1: settling in
- Keep it calm. Give them a quiet space of their own, and limit visitors for the first few days.
- Start a routine for meals, sleep and bathroom breaks. Predictability helps young animals feel safe.
- Begin house training straight away. Take puppies outside after waking, eating and playing, and praise them when they go. Show kittens the litter tray after meals and naps.
- Visit the vet within the first few days for a checkup, and to plan vaccinations, deworming and parasite prevention.
Week 2: health and handling
- Follow the vaccination schedule. Puppies and kittens usually need a series of vaccinations a few weeks apart.
- Get them used to handling. Gently touch their paws, ears and mouth every day, with treats, to make future vet visits and grooming easier.
- Check the microchip is registered with your contact details.
- Think about pet insurance while they're young and have no pre-existing conditions. Compare insurers on our pet insurance page.
Week 3: socializing
- Introduce new experiences gently: different people, sounds, surfaces and places. Keep each one short and positive.
- Ask your vet when it's safe for your puppy to meet other dogs and walk in public places, based on their vaccinations.
- Join a puppy class when your vet says it's OK. Classes are a great way to socialize safely. Find a dog trainer near you.
- Play with kittens every day using wand toys, so they learn to pounce on toys rather than hands.
Week 4: building good habits
- Teach simple cues, such as sit, come and their name, with short, fun sessions and plenty of rewards.
- Practice alone time. Leave them for a few minutes at a time, building up slowly, to help prevent separation anxiety.
- Start grooming: brushing, nail trims and tooth brushing, little and often.
- Review the routine. Are meals, sleep and bathroom breaks working? Adjust as they grow.
When to call the vet
Young animals can become seriously ill quickly. Call your vet if your puppy or kitten stops eating, has vomiting or diarrhea, seems weak or lethargic, or has trouble breathing. Keep the number of your nearest emergency vet handy too.
Welcome to the family!