Congratulations, a cat has chosen you as its human slave companion! Now what? Before you bring your new fluffy friend into your home, you got to make sure that you have everything that you need. Welcoming a new cat is an exciting experience. Before you do, ensuring you have the right supplies is essential for their comfort and well-being. Just like any new family member, your cat deserves a thoughtful and well-prepared living space. This guide will show you which items should be the first things in your shopping list.
Having the essentials before you bring your new pet into your home is very important because then you’ll be ready for anything. Among other things, this is why it’s important for your cat:
- Making your cat comfortable: Having the essential items ready upon your cat’s arrival ensures they feel safe and secure in their new environment.
- Ensuring your cat’s wellbeing: The right supplies contribute to your cat’s overall health, hygiene, and happiness, laying the foundation for a fulfilling life.
- Bonding with your cat: Providing the essentials helps establish trust and familiarity, enabling a strong bond to form between you and your new companion.
Now let’s see our list of essentials that we think you should get for your cat before your kitty joins your home.
Top 15 essential things to buy before you get a cat
- Cat carrier
- Food and Water Bowls
- High-Quality Cat Food
- Litter Box and scoop
- Litter sand
- Scratching Post
- Interactive Toys
- Cat Bed
- Grooming Supplies
- Comfortable Collar and ID Tag
- Puppy pads
- Treats
- Nail Clippers
- Toothbrush and Toothpaste
- Stain and Odor Removers
Cat Carrier
A cat carrier should be one of the first things to get because aside from bringing the cat home for the first time, it often means upcoming visits to the veterinarian. And a carrier provides a secure space for transporting your cat. Check out our the CatIt Carriers.
Whether it’s a trip to the veterinarian or travel to a new place, a secure carrier provides a comfortable space for your cat while prioritizing their safety during the journey. The Fat Cat Mini Backpack Carrier does the job done while being breathable and secure on your back. Having a comfortable cat carrier is crucial in the beginning but also in case of travel. Read more on how to prepare your cat for travel and also How to plan a vacation around your cat.
Food and Water Bowls
High-quality food and water bowls are essential for your cat’s daily sustenance. Look for ceramic or metal bowls that are easy to clean and won’t tip over easily. Plastic bowls are made of porous material that will provide a cozy spot for bacterial growth. So we don’t recommend plastic. Cats also tend to be more allergic to bowls made of plastic. Check out these portable and collapsible food/water bowls.
High-Quality Cat Food
Opt for premium cat food that meets your cat’s nutritional needs and age. Consult with your veterinarian to choose food appropriate for your cat’s age, health condition, and dietary requirements. Both wet and dry food should have at least 30-40% of meat in the ingredients list. We recommend you to check out our in-depth article on How to choose the best food for your cat.
Litter Box and Scoop
A litter box provides a designated place for your cat to relieve themselves. Choose a box that suits your cat’s size and preferences and keep it clean with a litter scoop. Check your local pet store for options or you can see this option online. Perhaps one of these stylish litter boxes can fit your interior design?
Litter Sand
Litter sand is a crucial component of the litter box. Select litter sand that clumps well, is easy to scoop, and controls odors effectively. We recommend the fine-granule Canadian litter sand Sandboxx Canada. For more information you can check our article How to choose the Best litter for your cat where we help you choose the best cat litter for your cat.
Scratching Post
Cats have a natural instinct to scratch, which helps keep their claws healthy and satisfies their territorial behavior. A scratching post provides an appropriate outlet for this behavior and helps protect your furniture. Consider getting both a standing and a horizontal scratching post. Otherwise your carpet can be the next nail scratcher. Cat Scratching Post Premium
Interactive Toys
Interactive toys engage your cat’s mind and keep them entertained. Toys that encourage mental stimulation and physical activity contribute to your cat’s overall well-being. UPSKY Cat Toy Roller 3-Level
Cat Bed
A cat bed offers a cozy and comfortable space for your feline friend to rest and sleep. Cats appreciate having a designated spot to call their own. These fluffy beds are perfect for the colder months.
Grooming Supplies
Grooming supplies like brushes, combs, and grooming gloves are essential for maintaining your cat’s coat health. Regular grooming sessions prevent matting and reduce shedding. We recommend getting a “self cleaning” brush where you can push out the hair once it’s full.
Comfortable Collar and ID Tag
A collar with an attached ID tag ensures your cat can be easily identified if they ever wander. Choose a comfortable collar that fits well without being too tight. Check out Bells and Whiskers for more options.
Puppy Pads
Puppy pads can be useful during the initial stages of litter training or for containing messes during accidents. They provide an extra layer of protection for your floors.
Treats
Cat treats can be used as rewards for good behavior or to provide occasional variety in their diet. Choose treats that are nutritionally balanced and appropriate for your cat’s health. We recommend checking out healthy Nulo cat treats.
Nail Clippers
Nail clippers are essential for keeping your cat’s nails at a comfortable length. Regular nail trimming prevents overgrowth and potential discomfort.
Toothbrush and Toothpaste
Dental care is often overlooked but is vital for your cat’s overall health. Use a cat-specific toothbrush and toothpaste to maintain their oral hygiene. Consult with a veterinarian whether you actually need it or with a pet pharmacist.
Stain and Odor Removers
Accidents can happen, especially during the initial stages of bringing a new cat home. Stain and odor removers help clean up messes effectively, preventing lingering odors and stains. Look into these pet safe cleaning products.
These were an example of the top 15 items you could have ready before getting a cat. After getting these things, you will be well-prepared to provide a comfortable, safe, and engaging environment for your new kitty. Remember that each cat is unique, so observe their preferences and needs as you create a space that they’ll thrive in.