First Days at Home: Appetite, Litter Box & Adjustment

Even after kittens are eating well on their own and using the litter box perfectly, moving to a new home is still a big change for them.

During the first day or two, some kittens may eat a little less, drink a little less, or not have a bowel movement right away. This is very common and, in most cases, everything returns to normal within a few days as they settle into their new environment.

One question I hear very often is:

"My kitten has been home all day and still hasn't pooped. Is that normal?"

Usually, yes.

While kittens in the cattery are already eating independently, they are still with their mother. She continues to groom them, including licking around their bottom. This is a natural part of a mother cat's care and can help stimulate bowel movements.

If your kitten hasn't pooped during the first day and you're worried, you can take a soft cotton pad or cloth, moisten it with warm water, and gently massage the area under the tail. Sometimes this little bit of stimulation is all that's needed.

Even if you don't do this, most kittens will adjust on their own as they become comfortable in their new home.

Photo courtesy of my client, who brought her kitten home just a few days ago. As you can see, the kitten has already settled into her new home and has even become friends with the resident cat. ❤️