Advice hub

• Two bowls that stay in a quiet spot
• A bed, and a crate or pen if you use one
• Collar, ID tag and a lead
• Food labelled for puppies — read the pack
• Small treats for training, not a second dinner
• Toys the right size, and a chew you can replace
• Cleaner for accidents, and towels
• Your vet's number, and microchip papers if you have them
• Short outings. One new thing at a time

When in doubt, ask your vet — especially about diet, worming and vaccines.

• A room they can have to themselves at first
• Litter tray, litter, and a scoop
• Food and water away from the tray
• Food labelled for kittens
• A bed and a hiding place
• A wand toy, put away when play stops
• A carrier for the vet trip
• Scratch post near where they already stretch

When in doubt, ask your vet what to feed and when to visit.

• Give the newcomer a room of their own first
• Swap bedding so scents mix before faces do
• Feed on opposite sides of a closed door
• Keep first meetings short, with a way out
• Do not punish a hiss, a bark or a thump
• Children sit down and let the animal approach
• Ask your vet before mixing animals if either has been unwell

When in doubt, slow down and ask your vet.