Being a first time cat parent is exciting, but if you’re not sure which supplies she’ll need, it can also seem overwhelming. Our new cat checklist is designed to help you put the essentials in place to ensure a smooth transition.
Here’s what you’ll need to pick up before bringing your new family member home:
Food That Meets Your Cat’s Needs
To ensure your cat is getting the nutrients she needs, including proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals, veterinarians recommend checking food labels for an AAFCO statement, which indicates a complete and balanced diet. The Association of American Feed Control Officials develops pet food nutritional guidelines, and a statement bearing their name means the diet meets or exceeds the nutritional requirements for a cat’s life stage (kitten or adult maintenance).
Treats are fine to give, but not a necessity, says Lauren Demos, president of the American Association of Feline Practitioners. “I think dry treats are convenient, but I also try to feed my personal cats some high-quality, low-sodium deli poultry meats, which are much closer to the snacks and treats that they would be out catching in the wild.”
Durable Food and Water Dishes
If you’re adopting a second kitty or have other pets, each cat should have her own food dish to prevent competition, says Dr. Sasha Gibbons, an associate veterinarian at Just Cats Veterinary Hospital in Stamford, Connecticut.
“Ceramic or stainless food bowls are preferred as they have smooth surfaces. Plastic bowls get rough edges over time that can lead to bacterial accumulation and skin irritation,” she says.
Cats also need a fresh water source. “Many cats prefer cool or running water. Therefore, stainless steel, ceramic water bowls or water fountains tend to be the most popular choices with cats,” Gibbons says. “Fountains have filters so they require cleaning and changing water bowls less frequently. Standard water bowls should be rinsed and fresh water provided daily.”
Litter Boxes
A cat should feel secure in her litter box and have ample room to move; otherwise, she may not use it. “A rule of thumb is 1 ½ times the length of an adult cat,” says Demos.
You’ll also need more than one cat litter box, placed in multiple locations, she says. “The number can vary, depending on the number of cats and the social groupings, but generally one for each cat, plus a spare is a good starting point.”
Litter comes in a number of materials, including corn, paper, wheat, and clay, the most commonly used litter option, says Gibbons. “Some cats have distinct preferences, so it may be beneficial to start with offering options to have a cat select its own box and litter.”
Outdoor Safety Gear
If you decide to bring your cat outdoors, you’ll need a way to prevent escapes. One option is a harness and leash. “Often small dog harnesses fit cats better than the cat-styled ‘H’ harnesses, which many cats can far too easily slip out from,” says Demos.
Even indoor-only cats can escape, so identification is also essential. “To me, a microchip is ideal, since it can’t be lost or destroyed. And it won’t cause injury to your cat, as a collar can. I have even seen breakaway collars fail, becoming a potential source of injury,” says Demos.
You’ll also need to invest in a cat carrier for trips to the veterinarian. It should be solidly constructed and appropriately sized for your cat’s anticipated adult weight, says Demos. “If you decide to get a hard crate, dog carriers are often a better size than small cat-sized carriers, which can be difficult to place cats into or remove, due to the doors being too small.”
Grooming Tools
Because cats self groom, many don’t need baths or to be frequently brushed, says Gibbons. “Brushing, however, can be enrichment for cats, help in hairball reduction, and lessen shedding and fur around the house.”
All cats need their nails trimmed, however, whether it’s done at home or by the veterinarian. Ignoring this important task leads to ingrown nails, a painful and potentially serious condition, says Gibbons.
If you decide to groom your cat at home, talk to your veterinarian about what type of brush and nail trimming tools are right for your pet. While you’re there, don’t forget to ask about the right flea, tick and heartworm prevention for your cat.
Cat Toys and Other Forms of Enrichment
Lack of enrichment can lead to destructive cat behavior, says Gibbons. “Examples of enrichment for cats include but are not limited to cat toys (especially interactive toys), cat trees, window seats and cat-focused DVDs.”
Providing your cat with toys she can chase, bat or pounce can help them express their natural hunting instincts, says Demos. “Toys now extend into feeding time, as well, including food puzzle balls, puzzle plates, and even feeding systems that involve no bowl whatsoever.”
Cats scratch to wear down their claws and to mark their territory, so it’s essential that they also have access to appropriate scratching material (opposed to your furniture), says Gibbons. Demos recommends getting multiple cat scratching posts of different surfaces until you learn what yours prefers.
In addition to play, cats also need lots of rest. “Cats sleep 18 hours a day and require a soft place to rest. There are many options for cat beds, but many cats prefer human beds and couches,” says Gibbons.