Whatever breed they are, whether they are munchkin cats, an American shorthair cat, or a Persian cat, cats will always be a wonderful source of comfort and company. In fact, this adorable tiny creature has the ability to relieve tension, improve your mood, and instill a sense of responsibility in you.
But, despite all of these advantages, owning a cat comes with a lot of responsibility, and there are a few things to think about before adopting one into your house. You’ll need to make sure you have adequate time to care for your cat, for example.
To ensure that the newest member of your family enjoys a happy, healthy, and comfortable life, you’ll need a few cat basics.
So, before bringing your new pet companion home, you’ll need to get a few things ready for him. Like a new couple moving in the house, there are various essential items required to be prepared to ensure you provide your cat’s needs. Also, you can take a few objects with his scent, such as his favorite towel or toy, home with you. Having odors he’s used to can help him acclimatize to your home more quickly. Together with the following must-have goods, those everyday items can help you create the “purrfect” environment for your new feline family member.
Below are the following that your cat will be needing before bringing your new cat or kitten home, so your cat feels like a family member rather than a guest.
Cat Food and Bowl
Although your new cat can be fed from any non-lead-glazed ceramic or stainless-steel bowl in your kitchen, you may feel more comfortable giving her own dishes. Plastic dishes are not suggested for cats because they can produce a chin rash and softer plastic scrapes, providing a haven for bacteria. There are a variety of non-tip stainless steel bowls available for cats. If you want porcelain plates with decorations, ensure the glaze is lead-free.
If the humans are gone for significant amounts of time during the day, such as to work or school, automatic food and water servers are beneficial. Most cats prefer the pure, fresh taste of running water, and automatic water dispensers offer a steady clean water supply.
Pet Carrier
Aside from food and bowl, the next item you’ll need is a cat carrier or crate, which you’ll use to transport your new pet home. It should be secure and safe, with enough ventilation and a simple entry and exit for your cat.
This is an absolute requirement. Never transfer a cat without a carrier. For taking a new cat or kitten home, a simple cardboard carrier (available from your veterinarian) will suffice, but you’ll soon need to upgrade to solid-bottomed fiberglass or durable plastic carrier with a secure lock and a screened opening the cat can peer through. A heavy-duty fabric airline-approved carrier is a smart option if you plan on traveling.
Scratching Post
Whether you like it or not, your cat will scratch. Invest in a scratching post to start your relationship off correctly. It can be as simple or elaborative as you want, and if you’re handy with tools, you can even put one together yourself. Catnip smell is given to some professionally constructed scratching posts to lure your cat. If your budget is restricted, start with a cardboard scratcher.
Grooming Kit
Grooming is necessary for cats, just as it is for dogs. Brush your cat’s coat frequently, depending on how hairy they are.
A nail clipper should be included in your kittie grooming kit so that you may trim your cat’s claws regularly to prevent damage to your home from clawing.
Cat Bed
Many cats may comfortably slumber anywhere, but a cat bed will be one of their favorites. The bed should be warm and plush, and it should be in a location where your cat feels safe and secure.
Cats seek snoozing areas that are both cozy and secure. While a cat bed isn’t required, most cats appreciate having their own comfortable spot. Also, there are some elevated cat beds and cat beds combined with cat trees, in addition to the typical pillow-like cat bed, to meet the feline’s natural urge to use vertical space.
Cat Toys
Cats enjoy playing, so you also need to make sure that you have a range of safe toys on hand. Cats enjoy pounces, so balls and catnip-filled mice are lovely choices.
Do not offer your cat toys with small bits that can be torn off, such as bells, feathers, or pom-poms, to reduce the risk of choking. Before providing a toy to your cat, inspect it to make sure it’s safe for him.
The “fishing pole with dangling lure” type of toy is a tremendous hit for interactive play. Just make sure it’s durable enough, so tiny kittens don’t pull the dangling section of it to shreds. Catnip mice are a popular choice. Kitty houses and climbing posts can range from a few dollars for a simple cardboard fabrication to several hundred dollars for professionally designed “cat furniture” combinations.
Cat-ID Tags
Your cat should be wearing an ID tag at all times. Also, your name, address, and phone number should all be on the tag. If your cat gets hooked on something, such as a tree limb, the collar should feature an automatic release that will detach it. Make sure the collar is comfortable enough for your cat and won’t irritate her neck or interfere with her breathing or eating. Make sure to allow enough space between the collar and the neck for two fingers to fit between them as a general guideline.
Cat Litter Box and Litter Scoop
For indoor and indoor-outdoor cats, selecting the appropriate litter box is critical. For mature cats, look for a large box with high sides, as they tend to throw the litter around a lot. However, you can start with a basic plastic litter box that can be located by your feline.
A box that is low enough for kittens to enter quickly is required. There are several types of litter, but plant-based litter appears to be the safest. Clay litter that clumps have an element that can hurt cats if consumed, and clay litters may stir up dust, which is unhealthy for you and your cat to breathe.
Consider placing a pad beneath the litter box to catch any stray litter. You can purchase mats for this purpose from a pet store, or you can get a few inexpensive carpet or linoleum samples that can be trashed and replaced when they become too dirty.
You’ll also need to clean your cat’s litter box on a frequent basis to maintain things tidy. Consider how you must keep your toilet clean despite the fact that it is intended for wastes.
But you can’t just reach out and touch your cat’s feces with your hands, can you? You’ll need a litter scoop and a trash bin or receptacle to dispose of the excrement from the litter box to make things easier. When choosing a litter scoop, aim for one that is non-stick, preferably metallic. Also, select a model that is well-made and easy to operate.
Cleaning Materials
Cleaning materials are something you should have on hand before they become a requirement. Cats are generally clean, although they, like everyone else, can get dirty or make messes.
Depending on your flooring and tastes, there are a variety of cleaning products available. To verify that a product is not dangerous when consumed, look for a label that says “pet safe.” Enzymatic cleaners, which break down proteins like those present in urine, are beneficial for house training and spraying accidents.