Bringing home a British Shorthair kitten is one of life’s greatest pleasures. Those round faces, stocky bodies, and mischievous personalities can melt even the sternest of hearts. But before you welcome your new bundle of fluff, you’ll need to make sure your home is ready.
As someone who’s lived with British Shorthairs for years, including my own girl, Rosie, I know exactly what these sturdy little cats need to settle in and thrive. This checklist will help you prepare for your kitten’s arrival and set them (and you) up for success.
British Shorthair Kitten Checklist
Here’s what you’ll need before you bring your kitten home:
1. Food and Water Bowls
Choose sturdy, shallow bowls made from ceramic or stainless steel. British Shorthairs are broad-faced cats, and some don’t like deep bowls that push against their whiskers.
- Tip: Get separate bowls for food and water, and place them a short distance apart. Cats prefer it that way.
Rosie has her food bowl in one corner of the kitchen and her water bowl in another. She’s quite particular about keeping them separate.
2. High-Quality Kitten Food
British Shorthair kittens grow steadily but need the right balance of nutrients to develop properly. Choose a premium kitten food rich in protein, with controlled fat levels to prevent unhealthy weight gain.
Look for brands that:
Are specifically labelled for kittens
Contain real meat as the first ingredient
Have no artificial additives
Check with your kitten’s breeder to find out what they’ve been eating and transition slowly if you’re changing foods.
3. Litter Box and Litter
You’ll need a kitten-sized litter tray to start with. Choose one with low sides for easy access. British Shorthairs are usually quick learners when it comes to litter training.
Litter type: Start with a soft, non-clumping litter. As they grow, you can switch to a clumping variety.
Scoop: Get a good scoop for daily cleaning.
Rosie took to her litter tray immediately, largely because I made sure it was always clean and in a quiet, easy-to-find location.
4. Scratching Posts and Pads
British Shorthair kittens have strong paws and love to scratch. Providing suitable scratching options will save your sofa from becoming an unintended scratching post.
Look for:
Sturdy vertical scratching posts
Horizontal scratching pads
Cat trees with built-in scratching surfaces
Place scratchers near where your kitten eats, sleeps, and plays.
5. Toys and Enrichment
British Shorthairs aren’t the most hyperactive cats, but kittens still need plenty of playtime to develop coordination and burn off energy.
Essential toys include:
Feather wands
Soft balls
Catnip mice
Interactive toys (like puzzle feeders)
Rosie loved her feather teaser as a kitten. She’d crouch low, wiggle her bottom, and then spring into action with surprising grace for such a sturdy little cat.
6. Bed and Safe Spaces
A comfy, enclosed bed gives your kitten somewhere safe and warm to sleep. British Shorthairs like their own space, so offering a few hidey-holes around your home can help them settle.
Good options include:
Igloo beds
Soft donut beds
Cat tunnels
Don’t be surprised if your kitten prefers the cardboard box the bed came in for the first few days... it’s all part of the process.
7. Grooming Supplies
Even though British Shorthairs have short coats, they benefit from regular brushing, especially during shedding seasons.
You’ll need:
A soft slicker brush
Nail clippers
Kitten-safe wipes for occasional clean-ups
Starting grooming routines early will make life easier as they grow.
8. Carrier for Vet Visits
A solid, well-ventilated carrier is a must for transporting your kitten safely. Choose one that will be big enough for them as an adult too, to save you buying another later.
9. Kitten-Proofing Your Home
Before your kitten arrives, take some time to make your home safer:
Hide electrical cords
Secure loose objects that might fall
Remove poisonous plants (like lilies)
Block off unsafe areas (like open stairwells or fireplaces)
faqS About Your British Shorthair Kitten Essentials
Choose a high-quality kitten food rich in protein and appropriate for their steady growth. Look for brands that use real meat and have no artificial additives.
Yes, even though they are calm by nature, kittens are playful. Offer a range of toys to keep them active and mentally stimulated.
Once or twice a week is plenty to start with. It keeps their coat healthy and gets them used to handling.
Choose a medium-sized, hard-sided carrier. It should be roomy enough for your kitten now and still suitable as they grow into a sturdy adult.
Not at first. Keep them indoors until they’re fully vaccinated, neutered, and properly settled in. Many owners choose to keep British Shorthairs as indoor cats permanently.
Final Thoughts: What to Buy for a British Shorthair Kitten
Bringing home a British Shorthair kitten is an exciting time, but preparation is key. With the right food, bedding, toys, and environment, you’ll give your kitten the best possible start in life.
Rosie settled in beautifully because I made sure her needs were met from day one. A clean litter box, good food, comfy beds, and plenty of gentle playtime made all the difference.
Get your checklist ready, kitten-proof your home, and prepare for plenty of adorable moments... and a lifetime of quiet companionship.