How to Choose a Kitten: Health Checks, Temperament and Where to Look
A kitten is a small creature, but the choice is a big one. Your cat could be with you for fifteen years or more, so a little care at the start pays off for a long time. Knowing what to look for makes it easier to pick a kitten that fits your home.
Decide what you are looking for
Before you meet any kittens, think about your household.
- Time and attention. Kittens need play, feeding and training. See kitten-proofing your home.
- One or two? Many people find two kittens easier than one. See should you get two kittens.
- Other pets and children. Some kittens adapt more easily. See how to introduce a kitten to a dog.
- Breed or mixed? Domestic shorthairs and longhairs are healthy, varied and plentiful. If you want a breed, read about its needs. See how to choose a cat breed.
- Budget. Include vaccines, spaying or neutering, food, litter and emergencies. See cat vet visit costs and cat pet insurance guide.
Where to find a kitten
Shelters and rescues. Many kittens need homes, especially in spring and summer. Shelters often vaccinate, deworm and neuter before adoption, and staff can tell you about personality. See adopting a cat from a shelter.
Responsible breeders. Reputable breeders health-test parents, raise kittens in the home, socialize them and let you meet the mother. They provide records and often a contract. They do not always have kittens available, and may have a waiting list.
Friends and neighbors. Accidental litters happen. Ask about health, vaccines and the parents' history, and plan to neuter.
Pet stores and online sellers. Be careful. Kittens may come from places with poor conditions, and you often cannot meet the parents. Ask for records, and consider other sources.
Age
Kittens should stay with their mother and littermates until at least eight weeks, and many breeders prefer twelve weeks or more. Early separation can lead to behavior problems and weaker immune systems. See kitten growth and development week by week.
What to check at a visit
Spend time with the kitten, and watch it in its own environment.
- Behavior. A good kitten is curious, plays and responds to people. It should not be terrified or lethargic.
- Eyes. Clear and bright, with no discharge or squinting. See cat eye problems.
- Nose. Clean, with no sneezing or crusting. See kitten sneezing and eye discharge.
- Ears. Clean, with no dark debris, which may mean ear mites. See how to clean a cat's ears.
- Coat. Clean and fluffy, with no bald patches or flea dirt. See fleas on cats.
- Body. Round but not bloated belly, solid frame, no limping.
- Bottom. Clean, with no signs of diarrhea. See diarrhea in cats.
- Mouth. Pink gums and clean teeth.
- Breathing. Easy and quiet.
Temperament
Watch the kitten with its littermates. A balanced kitten plays, explores and accepts handling. Very shy kittens may need extra patience. See how to socialize a kitten. Overly aggressive kittens may need training. Remember that a kitten's personality changes as it grows.
Questions to ask
- How old is the kitten?
- What vaccines and deworming has it had? See cat vaccination schedule.
- Has it been tested for FeLV and FIV? See FeLV and FIV in cats.
- What is it eating?
- Has it been around other animals and people?
- Is it litter trained? See kitten litter training.
- What is the health history of the parents?
- Is there a return or health guarantee?
Red flags
- Sellers who will not let you see where kittens live
- Dirty conditions or sick-looking kittens
- Kittens under eight weeks
- No records
- Pressure to decide quickly or pay in cash
- Refusing to let you meet the mother
- Many litters of different breeds
Bringing a kitten home safely
Pick up your kitten at a calm time, with a secure carrier lined with a blanket. Drive straight home, and do not stop. At home, take it to a prepared safe room, show it the litter box and food, and let it explore in its own time. Keep visitors to a minimum for the first few days so that it can settle. Bring a toy or blanket from its old home if you can, because familiar smells are a comfort.
Costs of the first year
Expect adoption or purchase fees, vaccines, parasite treatments, spay or neuter surgery, microchipping, food, litter, toys, a carrier and bedding. Setting aside money for emergencies is wise, since young kittens can get ill quickly.
After you choose
Plan a vet visit within a few days. See kitten first vet visit. Prepare a safe room, a litter box, food and toys. See kitten supplies checklist. Keep the kitten separate from other pets until it is checked. Use the US vet directory to find a clinic.
Frequently asked questions
What age should a kitten go to a new home?
Not before eight weeks, and many breeders wait until twelve to sixteen weeks.
Should I choose the boldest or the shyest kitten?
Look for a balanced kitten that is curious but not frantic, and not hiding from every touch.
Is it better to adopt two kittens?
Often yes, since littermates keep each other company. See should you get two kittens.
Are kittens from pet stores a good idea?
Be cautious. Ask where they came from and consider shelters and rescues first.
Sources and further reading
We link to recognised organizations so you can check the basics for yourself. We have no commercial relationship with any site listed here.
- ASPCA cat careEveryday care, behavior and safety basics for cats.
- American Veterinary Medical Association: pet owner resourcesPolicy-level guidance from the national veterinary association.
- WSAVA Global GuidelinesGlobal vaccination, nutrition and pain guidelines for small-animal vets.
Tailwisp is independent and written under our editorial policy. Learn who we are, or browse all cat guides.