Bringing a new kitten home is an exciting experience. But the first night can be stressful for both you and your furry friend. One of the most important questions new pet owners ask is: Where should my kitten sleep the first night?
The right sleeping spot helps your kitten feel safe and secure. A poor choice can lead to anxiety, crying, or even accidents. This guide will help you create the perfect sleeping environment for your new kitten.
Why the First Night Is Important for Your Kitten
The first night sets the tone for your kitten’s adjustment. A good night’s sleep helps them feel comfortable in their new home. A bad experience can make them fearful or anxious.
Kittens are used to sleeping with their mother and siblings. Being alone for the first time can be scary. Your job is to make them feel as safe as possible.
How Kittens Sleep Differently Than Adult Cats
Kittens sleep more than adult cats—up to 20 hours a day! They need deep, uninterrupted sleep for healthy growth. Unlike adult cats, kittens don’t always seek high places to sleep. They prefer warm, enclosed spaces that mimic a nest.
Understanding this helps you choose the best sleeping spot for their first night.
Best Places for a Kitten to Sleep the First Night
You have several good options. The best choice depends on your home setup and your kitten’s personality.
1. A Small, Enclosed Bed in a Quiet Room
Kittens feel safest in small, cozy spaces. A soft bed with raised sides works well. You can also use a:
Cardboard box with a blanket
Pet carrier lined with a soft towel
Cat cave or igloo-style bed
Place the bed in a quiet, low-traffic room. A bathroom or spare bedroom works well. Avoid noisy areas like the
kitchen or living room.
Why This Works:
Feels like a den
Blocks drafts
Reduces outside noise
2. In Your Bedroom (If You Want to Bond)
Some owners prefer having the kitten sleep nearby. If you choose this, set up a small bed next to your bed, not on it.
Kittens can get lost or fall off the bed. They might also have accidents. A separate bed keeps them safe while letting them feel your presence.
Pros:
Comforts the kitten with your scent and sounds
Helps with bonding
Lets you monitor them
Cons:
They may meow for attention
Risk of accidents if not litter-trained
3. A Cat Playpen or Confined Space
If you’re worried about the kitten wandering, a playpen is a great option. It gives them space to move while keeping them safe.
Add:
A soft bed
A small litter box
Water bowl
A few toys
This setup works well for kittens not yet litter-trained.
4. Avoid These Places for the First Night
Some spots may seem good but can be dangerous or stressful:
The living room – Too noisy and open
The kitchen – Risk of hazards (appliances, chemicals)
A high perch – Kittens can fall
Outdoors or a garage – Too cold and unsafe
How to Make the Sleeping Area Comfortable
The right setup helps your kitten relax. Follow these tips:
1. Keep It Warm
Kittens get cold easily. Use:
A microwavable heat pad (wrapped in a towel)
A soft fleece blanket
A covered bed to trap warmth
Avoid electric heating pads—they can overheat or be chewed.
2. Add Familiar Scents
Bring something from the breeder or shelter, like:
A blanket with their mother’s scent
A toy they’ve slept with
This reduces stress by making the new place smell familiar.
3. Use Soft Bedding
Choose materials that are:
Warm
Washable
Non-toxic (no loose threads they can swallow)
Avoid thick pillows—kittens can burrow and overheat.
4. Keep It Dark and Quiet
Kittens sleep best in dim light. If the room is too bright, cover the bed with a light cloth.
Turn off loud TVs or music. A white noise machine can help block scary sounds.
What to Expect the First Night
Even with the perfect setup, your kitten may:
Cry or meow – They miss their littermates.
Explore instead of sleep – Kittens are curious!
Have accidents – They’re still learning the litter box.
How to Soothe a Scared Kitten
If your kitten seems anxious:
Stay calm – They pick up on your emotions.
Use a soft voice – Talk gently to reassure them.
Offer a warm snuggle toy – Some mimic a heartbeat.
Avoid too much handling – Let them adjust at their own pace.
Should You Let the Kitten Sleep with You?
Many owners wonder if co-sleeping is okay. Here’s what to consider:
Pros:
Strengthens the bond
Keeps the kitten warm
Cons:
Risk of rolling over on them
They may get used to sleeping with you (hard to change later)
Possible accidents on your bed
If you do allow it, wait until they’re older and fully litter-trained.
Training Your Kitten to Sleep Through the Night
Kittens are most active at dawn and dusk. To encourage nighttime sleep:
Play before bedtime – Tire them out.
Feed a small meal – A full belly helps them sleep.
Stick to a routine – Cats love predictability.
Ignore nighttime meowing – Responding rewards the behavior.
Common First-Night Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced owners make mistakes. Here’s what not to do:
Forcing the kitten to sleep in an open space – They need security.
Moving their bed around – Consistency helps them adjust.
Punishing accidents – Positive reinforcement works better.
Leaving them alone too long – Check in without disturbing sleep.
When to Call the Vet
Most kittens adjust within a few nights. But contact a vet if your kitten:
Refuses to eat or drink
Has diarrhea or vomiting
Seems extremely lethargic
Cries nonstop for hours
These could be signs of illness or extreme stress.
Conclusion
This guide covers everything you need to know about where your kitten should sleep the first night. With the right preparation, both you and your new pet can rest easy.
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