There’s nothing quite like bringing home a wriggly puppy or a purring kitten for the first time. Whether this is your first pet or your fifth, it’s important to know what to do when you get a new puppy or kitten to make sure they stay healthy, happy, and well-adjusted from day one.
At Cottage Vet Clinic, we love meeting new additions to the family—and we’re here to guide you through those first exciting (and sometimes overwhelming) weeks.
Book a Vet Check-Up Within the First Few Days
One of the first things to do when you get a new puppy or kitten is to book a health check with your vet. This visit helps ensure your new pet is off to the best possible start and gives you a chance to ask questions about care, feeding, and training.
At this visit we will:
- Perform a full health exam
- Check for fleas, ticks, or worms
- Review their vaccination and deworming history
- Set up a vaccination schedule
- Microchip your pet if needed
- Discuss nutrition and early socialisation
Vaccinations and Deworming
If you’re wondering what to do when you get a new puppy or kitten, vaccinations are at the top of the list.
Puppies and kittens need a series of vaccinations starting at 6–8 weeks, with boosters every few weeks until 16 weeks. These protect against life-threatening diseases like:
- Parvovirus
- Distemper
- Snuffles in cats
- Feline leukemia virus (FeLV)
- Rabies (compulsory by law in South Africa)
They’ll also need regular deworming, usually every 2–4 weeks until 16 weeks old, then monthly.
Choose the Right Food
Your pet’s diet plays a huge role in their development. When deciding what to do when you get a new puppy or kitten, choose a high-quality, vet-recommended food appropriate for their age and size.
We’re happy to help you choose between all the different brands to set your pet us for success.
Start Socialising Early
The socialisation window for puppies and kittens is short—but vital. Exposure to new people, sounds, and environments between 8 and 16 weeks of age helps reduce fearfulness later in life.
For puppies, consider:
- Puppy socialisation classes
- Gentle introductions to other vaccinated dogs
- Positive experiences with strangers, noises, and travel
For kittens, provide:
- Calm handling
- Interactive play
- Safe exploration spaces
- Gentle desensitisation to noises and routine activities
If you’re unsure how to socialise safely, we can give you tips tailored to your pet’s personality.
Prepare Your Home
Before bringing your new furry friend home, it’s worth pet-proofing your space:
- Remove cords, toxic plants, and small objects that can be swallowed
- Set up a safe sleeping area
- Provide toys for teething and mental stimulation
- Get a scratching post for kittens and chew toys for puppies
Sterilisation
While it won’t happen immediately, part of knowing what to do when you get a new puppy or kitten is planning for sterilisation.
We usually recommend spaying or neutering around 6 months of age for cats and small breed dogs and at 1 year for large breed dogs. This prevents unwanted litters, reduces health risks, and can improve behaviour.
Build a Long-Term Care Plan
From parasite prevention and vaccinations to grooming and dental care, early habits shape your pet’s lifelong health. We can help you create a personalised plan that includes:
- Monthly tick and flea prevention
- Dental health products
- Nutritional advice
- Growth monitoring and wellness checks
In Summary
Knowing what to do when you get a new puppy or kitten can make the difference between a stressful start and a smooth transition. With the right support, you’ll enjoy the puppy or kitten phase (yes, even the 2am wake-ups!) and lay the foundation for a happy, healthy life together.
If you’re expecting a new arrival, book your first vet visit with us today—we can’t wait to meet them.
