New Puppy or Kitten? Here’s What Every Pet Parent Should Know

Bringing home a new puppy or kitten is a joyful, tail-wagging, purring kind of moment—but it can also come with a few big questions (and maybe a little panic). How often should they eat? When do they need vaccines? Why are they chewing everything? And is that normal… or something you should worry about?

In this guide, we’re breaking down everything you should know about early pet care, from vet visits and vaccines to feeding, training, safety, and beyond. Consider it your go-to checklist for raising a confident, thriving young pet from day one.

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1. Book That First Vet Visit Early

One of the first things you should do after bringing your puppy or kitten home is schedule a veterinary exam. Ideally, this happens within the first 1–2 weeks. Early visits help:

• Check for congenital issues
• Establish a vaccine schedule
• Discuss parasite prevention (fleas, ticks, heartworm, deworming)
• Provide baseline health records
• Offer support on diet, training, and spay/neuter timing

Tip: Bring any paperwork from the breeder, rescue, or shelter so we can review prior vaccines, treatments, or concerns.

Schedule your pet’s wellness exam →

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2. Vaccines & Parasite Prevention

Puppies and kittens are especially vulnerable to illness in their first few months. That’s why a structured vaccine plan is so important.

Typical Puppy Vaccines:

• DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza)
• Rabies (required by NJ law)
• Leptospirosis
• Bordetella (kennel cough) & Lyme (based on lifestyle)

Typical Kitten Vaccines:

• FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia)
• Rabies
• FeLV (Feline Leukemia, depending on exposure risk)

Don’t forget deworming and monthly preventives for fleas, ticks, and heartworms—even for indoor pets. Prevention now means fewer emergency visits later.

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3. Feeding: What (and How Much) Should They Eat?

Feeding the right food in the right way is critical for healthy growth.

Key Tips:

• Feed based on age and breed-specific guidelines
• Stick to set meal times (don’t free-feed)
• Avoid table scraps and high-fat treats
• Provide fresh water at all times

Sudden diet changes can cause tummy issues—switch foods gradually over 7–10 days.

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4. Socialization & Training Basics

The early months are a critical time to help your pet grow into a confident, well-adjusted adult.

For Puppies:

• Expose them gently to new people, sounds, surfaces, and other dogs
• Start crate training and leash walking
• Reward good behavior consistently
• Begin basic commands: sit, stay, come

For Kittens:

• Handle gently and often
• Encourage play and exploration
• Introduce scratching posts early
• Use positive reinforcement with litterbox training

Want to prevent behavior issues later? Early, low-pressure socialization is key, just be sure your pet is vaccinated before high-risk outings.

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5. Pet-Proofing Your Home

Just like toddlers, puppies and kittens love to explore—with their mouths! Take some time to set up a safe space.

Watch Out For:

• Electrical cords
• Small objects that can be swallowed
• Toxic plants (lilies, azaleas, pothos)
• Household chemicals
• Trash cans and low cabinets

Use baby gates, hide cords, and keep tempting dangers out of reach.

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6.Grooming & Handling Habits Start Now

Even if your pet doesn’t need regular haircuts, getting them comfortable with being handled will make future vet and grooming visits a breeze.

Start brushing, trimming nails, checking ears, and gently touching paws and mouths early. Praise them throughout and go slow. It’s not about perfection—it’s about positive association.

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7. Spaying & Neutering: What to Consider

Most puppies and kittens are spayed or neutered between 5–6 months of age, though timing can vary by breed and health history. Your vet can recommend the best time for your individual pet.

Benefits of spay/neuter include:

• Reduced risk of certain cancers
• Prevention of unwanted litters
• Decreased roaming, marking, or heat behavior

More about pet surgery at Packanack →

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Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This

Caring for a new puppy or kitten can feel like a whirlwind, but with the right knowledge and support, you’ll settle into a rhythm in no time. Start with the basics: vet visits, good food, gentle training, and a whole lot of love. And when questions pop up (and they will!), don’t hesitate to lean on the Packanack team for guidance.