Top Essentials to Have When Adopting a Cat
Adopting a new cat is an exciting time, but if you've never been a cat owner, you may not have your home equipped with the essentials they'll need. Check out this list to see what essentials will help your cat feel welcomed in their new home.
You’ve been to the animal shelter, and you’ve met the perfect cat that you just can’t wait to bring home. However, there is a lot that goes into this exciting time and making sure that your home is ready to welcome its newest family member. With this guide, you’ll be able to ensure your new cat is comfortable in their new home, and that you have your home set up with everything that they’ll need.
Food & Water Bowls
Your new cat will need bowls to eat and drink out of. For cats, there is a lot of debate over whether their bowls should be shallow, to avoid “whisker fatigue” from rubbing on the bowl while they eat/drink. This is disputed by some in the veterinarian world, so it’s really up to you what you want to choose for them. Cats also tend to love flowing water, so you can set up a water fountain for them that will encourage hydration and also give them something to be mesmerized by!
Collar & ID Tags
Now more than likely, your cat will not be a fan of wearing their cool and colorful collar that you get them. If you plan on keeping your cat indoors, this typically isn’t that big of an issue. However, if you do plan on letting your cat explore the outdoors, you’ll want to pick up a durable collar that won’t wear down, and some ID tags with all of your contact information on them just in case.
Bed
While cats do have a habit of laying everywhere besides their bed, they do love to retreat to their comfortable and cozy bed when it’s time for some deep sleep. Getting a plush bed with a good cushion will allow them to snuggle in and feel safe as they get used to their new space. It can also be good to put one of your blankets down on the bed, so they can have something to get used to your scent.
Cat Tower & Scratching Post
Cats love a good place to sit perched high above the ground, which is why a cat tower can be a great thing to have to help them feel more comfortable. This will also from time-to-time replace that comfy bed that you got them, because they tend to enjoy lounging on their tower. You can find some cat towers that come with a built-in scratching post for your cat to get some good scratching time in. This will help them stay away from scratching anything important like furniture or the walls.
Litter Box & Accessories
The wonderful thing about being a cat owner is that you don’t need to take them outside to use the bathroom. Once you get your litter and litter box, you can position it in one place and your cat will return there time and time again to do their business. There are a wide amount of types of litter, so it’s not a bad idea to consult with your vet to confirm if there’s a specific kind you should use for your cat. You’ll also want to pick up some must-have accessories like a scooper, and a floor mat to make clean up and maintenance a little easier.
Brush & Nail Clippers
While cats do groom themselves, which can be easier on your schedule when it comes to bathing, you’ll want to keep up with brushing your cat’s fur and trimming their nails. Brushing your cat can be a great way to bond with your new feline friend, and is a way to build trust with them. And while they can get some good scratches on a scratching post, cat’s nails can get out of hand without proper care, so it’s important to keep up with trimming when they get on the longer side.
Carrier
Most adoption centers do not provide a carrier when you adopt a cat, so this may be the first item on your checklist if you’re still looking for your new cat. You’ll want to get a durable carrier, so you have something to transport them in when those trips to the vet come. It’s best to look for a ventilated carrier, made of strong materials that will resist punctures or scratches. Carriers come in a wide-range of sizes, so you can find one that fits your cat best.
Toys & Treats
Cats can be hit and miss with toys, but when you find the ones they like, they tend to stick to them and play with them frequently. Getting toys that create a lot of movement while being used like springs, or little colored mice can be great tools to keep your cat running around and chasing them endlessly. You can also pick up one of the classic cat toys, a laser. Treats are also good to pick up for your cat, as these can be a great snack for them in between their meals, and can be another tool for bonding with your new pet.
While every single one of these aren’t absolutely required to have, having these key items will make things a lot easier for everyone involved when it comes to welcoming your new feline friend into your home. The getting-to-know-you process doesn’t happen overnight, and it will take lots of time for your pet to feel fully comfortable. Practice patience, and do your best to provide lots of love and respect to your newest member of your home!
