New Cat Checklist

Completing a new cat checklist and gathering all the necessary cat items before bringing your new feline companion home is a smart move that kick starts your new pet's comfort in a new place. By having a cozy bed, a clean litter box, delicious food, and playful toys ready, you create a welcoming environment that eases their transition into their new home. It also means you can focus on building a strong bond with your new cat instead of scrambling to find supplies. So, whether you're adopting a seasoned cat or a playful kitten, being prepared in advance is your ticket to a purr-fect start to a lifetime of companionship. 🐱

Veterinarian

It's advisable to pick out a veterinarian and schedule an appointment for your newly adopted cat or kitten within the first week of bringing them home. This early visit allows the veterinarian to conduct a thorough examination, address any immediate health concerns, establish a baseline for your pet's health, and discuss a vaccination and preventive care plan tailored to their specific needs. Starting this relationship with a vet promptly ensures your new furry friend receives the necessary healthcare from the outset and sets the stage for their long-term well-being.

Cat-proof home

Cat-proofing your home before adopting a cat or kitten is essential to ensure their safety and your peace of mind. It prevents accidents, protects your belongings from damage, and creates a stress-free environment for your new feline companion.

Food and clean water

If you are adopting an adult cat, it’s probably best to continue feeding the cat the same food that they have been eating for now. If you are adopting a kitten, they will need kitten specific food. Contact your veterinarian for recommendations best suited for the age and needs of your cat. Always provide your cat or kitten with fresh clean filtered water, refreshed daily and as needed.

Litter box and litter

Litter boxes can range widely with sizes and price ranges. Obtain the best quality box you can afford so it will be long lasting and easy for you to clean. Investing in a quality stainless steel litter box with high sides, will last forever and not absorb the odors that plastic can.

Food and water bowls

Look for bowls sized for cats, easy to clean (dishwasher safe if you prefer to clean in a dishwasher). Ceramic or stainless steel bowls are best.

Crate

A sturdy crate is a must for transporting your cat to the veterinarian. Getting a cat into a carrier can sometimes be difficult, looking for crate options that have easier top or side entry options makes this process less stressful. A rigid/hard plastic will be a sturdier option, easiest to clean and longer lasting.

Toys

Many cats love to chase, bat their paws, and pounce and something that is moving. Fun options are playing with your cat with a dangling type of lure toy with a sturdy ribbon or string. Some have small toys attached to the end of the string such as a mouse or feathers. Look for sturdy toys that will last with continued play.

Bed

Cats can sleep 12-20 hours in a day. Your cat will find a place to sleep on your furniture or a warm lap. If you would like to offer them their own dedicated place, purchase a comfy cat sized pet bed, or offer a cat tree with options for a soft sleeping space.

Scratching post

Cats have sharp nails and instinctively look for things to scratch their nails on. Scratching provides physical and mental benefits to cats. Help them satisfy their need to scratch with a sturdy sisal or cardboard scratching post.

Cat tooth brush

Dental issues, like plaque buildup and gum disease, can lead to discomfort and systemic health problems. Regular teeth brushing also combats bad breath and reduces the risk of costly veterinary bills associated with dental treatments.

Cat nail clippers

Trimming a cat's nails with nail clippers periodically prevents overgrown nails that can lead to injuries from them catching their nails on soft services, protects your furniture and flooring from scratches, and reduces the risk of accidental scratches during play.