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PETS ANIMALS
Pets

New puppy or kitten? The ultimate first-time pet checklist for a stress-free start

Portrait of Jessica Moore Jessica Moore
USA TODAY
Feb. 24, 2026Updated July 17, 2026, 1:53 p.m. ET
  • Bringing a new puppy or kitten home requires preparation to ensure a smooth transition.
  • Essential supplies for a new puppy include a crate, bedding, food, a collar, and chew toys.
  • A checklist can help new pet owners remember all necessary items and reduce stress.

Welcoming a new pet doesn't have to feel chaotic, even when it can be both heartwarming and a tad overwhelming. If you're counting down the days until your new puppy or kitten arrives, this checklist will make everything easier.

This new puppy and kitten checklist covers all of your bases, including must-have puppy essentials and kitten supplies you'll need for a smooth start. Plus, the often forgotten items to save your floors, your furniture and your sanity.

So, if you're wondering what to buy for a new puppy or kitten, think of this as your stress-saving master list. Set everything up once and you'll spend those first weeks bonding instead of running last-minute errands.

Shop essentials for new puppy, kitten at Chewy

Jump to the right shopping list for you

Shop the ultimate new puppy, kitten checklist with must-have pet essentials.

New puppy essentials (first 7 days)

Note: All of these recommended puppy and kitten products below are top-rated by shoppers and/or best-sellers by retailers.

MidWest iCrate Fold & Carry Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate
This iCrate folding metal dog crate has a divider panel, where you can adjust the size of the crate as your puppy grows. Shop at Chewy

Related puppy crates:

Bedsure ComfyFleece Orthopedic Bolster Dog Bed with Removable Cover
Give your fur baby the ultimate snuggle spot with this bolster dog bed with a removable cover. It's made with ultra-soft imitation fur to keep your pup warm and cozy. Shop at Chewy

Related puppy beds:

Lucy & Co. Among the Wildflowers Reversible Dog Harness, Small
This reversible dog harness has two prints for a versatile and stylish look. It's made with durable and water-repellent fabric for outdoor activities. Shop at Chewy

Get the matching Lucy & Co. leash and collar:

Hill's Science Diet Puppy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food
This puppy food is a Chewy best-seller. This recipe helps support your puppy's growing muscles with high-quality proteins. Shop at Chewy

Related puppy food:

Smart Pet Love Snuggle Puppy Comfortable Beginnings New Puppy Starter Kit Puppy
This puppy kit includes three heat packs, a snuggle puppy blanket, puppy's 1st toy and puppy teething aid. Shop at Chewy

Related puppy must-haves:

New kitten essentials (first 7 days)

Tidy Cats Breeze Cat Litter Box System, Unscented Cat Litter Pads
This all-in-one Breeze cat little system is easy for you kitten to use and it'll help prevent odor for seven days for one cat. Shop at Chewy

Related litter box products:

Gapzer Soft-Sided Dog & Cat Carrier
This carrier is perfectly sized for small pets. It's made with durable fabric and enclosed in scratch-resistant nylon mesh. Shop at Chewy

Related cat carriers, backpacks and strollers:

Natural Wood Cat Tower With Hand-woven Baskets And Scratching Post
This wooden cat tower is made from natural and sturdy solid wood trunks. It's built for long-lasting durability and has a soft cushion material for your kitten to rest. Shop at Wayfair

Related kitten scratching posts:

Purina Pro Plan Focus Kitten Favorites Variety Pack Canned Cat Food
This kitten food is made with high protein to support your fur baby's growth through their first year. Shop at Chewy

Related kitten food:

PawsPik Interactive Fast Rolling Play Mat Ball Cat Toy
Keep your kitten entertained with this interactive ball toy. It has three modes, including slow mode, fast mode and interactive mode. Shop at Chewy

Related must-have kitten supplies:

What do I need before bringing a puppy home?

Bringing a puppy home requires essential supplies for safety, comfort and training. At minimum, you'll need a crate, bedding, food, bowls, collar and/or harness, leash, ID tag, training pads, cleaner and chew toys.

How many litter boxes do I need for new kitten?

The general rule is one litter box per cat, plus one extra. Even for one kitten, having two boxes can help prevent accidents.

What size crate should I buy for puppy or kitten?

Choose a crate large enough for your puppy or kitten to stand, turn around and lie down comfortably; but not so large that they can use one corner as a bathroom. Many crates come with dividers to adjust as your puppy grows.

What’s the best first toy for a new puppy or kitten?

For puppies, a soft chew toy designed for teething is ideal. For kittens, a wand toy encourages healthy hunting behavior and interactive bonding.

Our editors independently choose our recommendations. Some content is produced with paid support from a third party, however our editorial decisions remain independent. If you buy through our links, the USA TODAY Network may earn a commission. Prices and availability may change.