Overview
Bringing home a new cat? Cats are great pets and relatively easy to take care of, but you will need to get a few things in order to make sure they have the proper care. Below I have created a list of everything you need for bringing home a new cat or kitten. I have also provided some links to different products to help you find everything you need.
1. Cat Carrier
First, you will need something to safely transport your cat in, so a secure and comfortable carrier is a must. Use it for bringing home your new pet and for future vet visits. Make sure you pick out one that has enough room for your cat and is properly ventilated.
2. Litter Box and Litter
You will also need a litter box and some litter so your cat has a place to use the restroom. There are a ton of options when it comes to litter boxes. You can get a standard box or a self cleaning one. Which ever one you chose make sure to put it quiet and easy to find area so that your cat will feel confident using it. Next, litter again there is a lot of options here. Chose a litter that clumps up well so it is easy to clean. Don’t forget about a scoop so don’t get your hands dirty. You can also chose between a scented and unscented litter. It all comes down to preference. Some cats may not be as comfortable with scented litters. Feel free to experiment with different things and figure out what works best for both you and your cat.
Standard Litter Box Self Cleaning Litter Box
3. Food and Water Bowls
This one is pretty self explanatory. Make sure to get some bowls for water and food. Ceramic and stainless steel bowls are typically best because they are easy to clean. Place the bowls in an easy to reach and low traffic area for your cat.
4. Cat Food (Wet or Dry)
Choosing the right food is important for your pet’s health and diet. Each cat will need different types of food based on their age, health, and preference. Before you take home your cat ask the breeder or shelter what food they have been eating so you are sure to get one that works for your cat. If you are ever unsure what food to get ask your vet or another expert.
5. Cat Bed
It is important to give your cat a place to relax. Get them and soft and comfy bed to rest in. Place it in a quiet and separate place so they can feel safe while they are sleeping.
6. Toys and Scratching Areas
Toys are important for enrichment and keeping your cat happy. Get interactive toys like balls, feather wands, puzzle feeders, and anything else they would enjoy. Spend plenty of time playing with your cat as well. This will help them bond with you and keep them physically and mentally stimulated. If your cat hasn’t been declawed you should get them a scratching tower or mat. Scratching is a natural cat behavior, so you should give them a place to scratch so they don’t destroy your furniture.
Cat Toy Variety Pack Cat Scratching Post
7. Collar and ID Tag
You should put a collar and ID tag on your cat just in case they get lost. Fill the ID tag with useful information like your phone number or any other way to contact you. This will make it easier to find your cat and it will let people know that the cat is tame and has an owner.
8. Vet and Health Information
Find a near by veterinarian and make sure to keep their information so you will be ready if you need it. Pet Insurance may also be something to consider to help with unexpected vet costs. When picking up your cat ask the breeder or shelter about possible health issues or injuries. It is good to have an understanding of your pets medical history. Also be sure to keep your cat up to date vaccinations and parasite control.
9. Grooming Supplies
Grooming Supplies will help keep your cat clean and prevent health issues. These are some things I recommend. Get a brush and frequently comb your cat’s fur to prevent matting and keep their hair healthy and shinny. Next, get nail clippers specially made for cats. Trim their nails regularly to prevent an overgrowth that can become painful. Also get a cat ear cleaner. Cats are prone to ear infection especially long-eared breeds. Clean their ears to prevent infections. Be very gentle while cleaning and do not reach deep into the ear canal. Finally get a specialize cat toothbrush and toothpaste. Never use human toothpaste. Gently brush their teeth to prevent dental issues and keep your cat’s teeth clean and healthy.
10. Cleaning Supplies
Your cat might have some accidents during the adjustment period. Have a pet-safe cleaner on hand to handle any kind of mess your cat might make. You might also want to keep something like a lint roller with you to clear your clothes and surfaces of fur.
Conclusion
I hope you have enjoyed reading this post and that you have found it useful to you. If you are interested in learning more about pets and animals please check out some of our other posts. Thanks for reading and I wish you the best of luck taking care of your new pet!
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