Bringing home a new puppy or kitten is exciting, emotional, and… a little bit overwhelming.
Between choosing the right food, booking vet visits, and making sure your home is safe, it’s easy to feel unsure about what your new family member really needs.
At Songbirds & More Pet Shop in Zurrieq, we meet many first-time pet parents who all ask the same question: “What do I actually need to buy and do to start right?”
This simple checklist will guide you through the essentials so you can focus on what matters most – enjoying your new best friend.
1. Food: Start With Quality From Day One
Puppies and kittens grow fast, and their bodies need the right balance of protein, fats, vitamins, and minerals.
Look for:
- Food specifically formulated for puppies or kittens
- Clear meat sources (e.g. chicken, salmon, turkey)
- Support for digestion and immunity
At our shop, we carefully select brands like Vet Expert, Raw Paleo, Calibra, Natural Greatness and others because they focus on science, quality ingredients, and pet wellbeing. If you’re unsure which recipe is best for your pet’s age, size, or breed, just bring us a few details and we’ll guide you.
Don’t forget:
- Fresh water available at all times
- A plan for gradually changing food if your pet comes from a breeder or shelter eating something different
2. Bowls, Bed & Basic Comfort
Your new pet needs a safe, comfortable space to relax and feel secure.
Essentials:
- Food and water bowls – easy to clean, stable, and the right size
- A comfortable bed – not too big for a small puppy/kitten, so they feel snug and safe
- A blanket or soft mat for extra warmth and comfort
For puppies, you might also consider a crate or playpen to keep them safe when you can’t supervise. For kittens, a cosy hiding spot or covered bed can help them feel more confident in a new environment.
3. Hygiene, Litter & House-Training
Keeping things clean from the start makes life easier for everyone.
For puppies:
- Puppy pads or a designated toilet area
- Poop bags for walks and outdoor time
- Gentle pet-safe cleaning products for accidents
For kittens:
- Litter tray – low entry for small kittens
- Suitable cat litter (we can help you choose clumping/non-clumping, scented/unscented)
- A scoop and mat to keep the area tidy
Good hygiene habits early on make your home more pleasant and help your pet learn where “the bathroom” is.
4. Toys & Mental Stimulation
Puppies and kittens are full of energy and curiosity. The right toys keep them happy, active, and out of trouble.
For puppies:
- Soft toys for comfort
- Chew toys to support teething and protect your furniture
- Simple interactive toys for bonding and training
For kittens:
- Balls, feather wands, and small toys to chase
- Toys that encourage pouncing, hunting, and climbing
We stock a range of safe, durable toys from trusted brands (like ComfyPets, IdeaPet and more) so you can choose based on your pet’s age and play style.
5. Collars, Harnesses & ID
Even if your pet will be mostly indoors, it’s important to think about safety.
For puppies:
- A comfortable collar or harness that fits properly
- A simple ID tag with your phone number
- A basic lead for short walks and training
For kittens:
- A breakaway collar for safety, especially if they might explore outdoors later
- ID tag or microchip (discuss with your vet)
We can help you measure and choose the right size so nothing is too tight or too loose.
6. Basic Health & Vet Visits
Your vet is your main partner in your pet’s health, but we’re here to support you with daily care.
Discuss with your vet:
- Vaccination schedule
- Parasite prevention (fleas, ticks, worms – especially important in Malta’s climate)
- Microchipping and spaying/neutering
In our shop, you’ll find high-quality diets, supplements, and supportive products that work hand-in-hand with your vet’s recommendations. If your vet suggests a specific type of food (for sensitive stomachs, allergies, or other conditions), we can help you find a suitable option from brands like Vet Expert, Raw Paleo, Calibra, Natural Greatness and others.
7. Training, Socialisation & Routine
A happy pet is not just healthy – they’re also well-socialised and confident.
For puppies:
- Start with simple commands: sit, stay, come
- Reward good behaviour with healthy treats
- Gently expose them to different sounds, people, and environments
For kittens:
- Encourage gentle handling and play
- Provide scratching posts so they learn where to sharpen their claws
- Create a predictable routine for feeding and playtime
We can recommend treats and accessories that support training without overloading your pet with sugar or unnecessary calories.
Need Help Choosing? We’re Here for You
Every puppy and kitten is unique. Breed, size, background, and health all play a role in what they need.
At Songbirds & More Pet Shop in Zurrieq, we’re more than just a pet shop:
- We carefully select products that support long-term health and wellbeing
- We’re happy to listen to your story and help you build a personalised starter kit
- We truly believe every pet deserves the best
If you’re about to welcome a new furry family member – or you’ve just brought one home and feel a bit lost – visit us in store or reach out online.
We’ll walk you through everything step by step so you and your pet can start this journey with confidence.
We’ll walk you through everything step by step so you and your pet can start this journey with confidence.
0 comments