New Sphynx Kitten Checklist
Everything You Need Before Bringing Your New Kitten Home
Bringing home a Sphynx or Elf kitten is an exciting milestone. Preparing everything before collection day will help your new companion settle quickly and confidently into their new home.
This checklist covers the essential items every new owner should have ready before welcoming their kitten.
Food & Water
Before your kitten arrives, have:
- Quality kitten food
- Fresh drinking water
- Stainless steel food bowl
- Stainless steel water bowl
Keeping your kitten on the same food initially helps minimise digestive upset during the transition.
Sleeping Area
Create a warm, comfortable sleeping space with:
- Soft bed
- Warm blankets
- Raised sleeping area
- Quiet location away from heavy foot traffic
Hairless breeds appreciate warm, cosy places to rest.
Litter Essentials
You’ll need:
- Litter tray
- Suitable litter
- Litter scoop
- Litter mat
- Enzyme cleaner for accidents
Place the litter tray somewhere quiet and easy for your kitten to access.
Grooming Supplies
Sphynx and Elf cats require regular grooming.
Prepare:
- Gentle cat shampoo
- Soft towels
- Ear cleaner
- Cotton pads
- Nail clippers
Introducing grooming early helps kittens become comfortable with regular handling.
Toys & Enrichment
Encourage confidence and curiosity with:
- Wand toys
- Soft toys
- Puzzle feeders
- Scratching post
- Cat tree
- Interactive toys
Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise.
Safety Checklist
Before collection day:
✓ Secure electrical cords
✓ Remove toxic plants
✓ Store medications safely
✓ Put away household chemicals
✓ Check windows and balconies
✓ Remove small swallowable objects
✓ Check washing machines and dryers before use
Travel Home
Have ready:
- Secure cat carrier
- Soft blanket
- Puppy pads (optional)
- Small towel
A secure carrier keeps your kitten safe throughout the journey home.
Veterinary Preparation
Before your kitten arrives:
- Choose a local veterinarian.
- Save the clinic’s phone number.
- Locate the nearest emergency clinic.
- Arrange your kitten’s first health check if recommended.
Prepare Your Family
Everyone should understand:
- Allow the kitten time to settle.
- Keep introductions calm.
- Avoid loud noises.
- Let the kitten approach people first.
- Establish a consistent routine.
A calm start builds confidence.
Don’t Forget Yourself
Your kitten doesn’t expect perfection.
They simply need:
- Patience
- Routine
- Love
- Gentle guidance
- Positive experiences
Building trust during the first few weeks creates the foundation for a lifelong relationship.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I buy before bringing home a Sphynx kitten?
Food, bowls, litter tray, bed, carrier, scratching post, toys and grooming supplies should all be prepared before collection day.
Should I prepare one room first?
Yes. Giving your kitten one quiet room helps reduce stress while they adjust to their new surroundings.
Do Sphynx cats need special supplies?
Most supplies are the same as other cats, although warm bedding, gentle grooming products and regular skin care are particularly important.
When should everything be ready?
Ideally, have your home fully prepared several days before collection so you can focus on helping your kitten settle.