Essential Supplies for New Cat Owners: Your Complete Guide
Bringing a new cat home is exciting—and a little preparation goes a long way toward making your feline friend feel comfortable and secure. Let’s walk through everything you’ll want on hand before your cat sets paw in their new environment.
Comfy Digs: Beds and Carriers
Your cat’s comfort starts with a cozy bed. Cats love to lounge, so pick out a bed style that matches both your lifestyle and your kitty’s personality—whether it’s a cave for hiding or an open swirl for stretching out. For travel or vet visits, invest in a sturdy carrier with good ventilation; adding a thick mat inside can make the ride less stressful.
Litter Box Setup
Every cat needs their own litter box. Choose one that’s spacious enough for your cat to move around comfortably. Stock up on unscented litter (cats tend to prefer it) and get a scoop for daily cleaning. Place the box in a quiet area and consider adding a litter mat to catch stray granules.
- Litter box (one per cat)
- Unscented litter
- Litter scoop
- Litter mat (optional but helpful)
Food & Water Essentials
Cats thrive on nutritious food. Start with whatever brand or type they’re used to, then transition gradually if needed. Ceramic or stainless steel bowls are best—they’re easy to clean and don’t harbor bacteria like plastic can. Some cats drink more from water fountains, so consider one if hydration is an issue.
- Ceramic or stainless steel food bowl
- Ceramic or stainless steel water bowl (or fountain)
- High-quality food (kitten or adult formula as appropriate)
- Treats (for training and bonding—use sparingly)
Scratching Posts & Cat Trees
Scratching is natural for cats—it keeps their claws healthy and helps them mark territory. Provide at least one sturdy scratching post or cardboard scratcher; cat trees offer both climbing fun and safe spots for observing the household.
- Tall scratching post or cardboard scratcher
- Cat tree (optional but great for enrichment)
Toys & Enrichment
Boredom leads to mischief! Stock up on toys: balls, feather wands, pole toys, toy mice—even simple items like paper bags (with handles removed) or cardboard rolls can delight your cat. Rotate toys weekly so playtime stays fresh.
- Balls and toy mice
- Feather wands/pole toys
- Catnip toys (for variety)
- Household items like paper bags (handles removed)
Grooming Tools
A brush helps control shedding and prevents mats—especially important for long-haired breeds. Cat-specific nail clippers keep claws at a safe length. For dental health, consider getting toothpaste and toothbrushes made just for cats.
- Cats-only brush/comb suited to coat type
- Nail trimmers designed for cats
- Cat toothpaste and toothbrush (optional but beneficial)
ID & Safety Gear
A breakaway collar with an ID tag is vital in case your indoor explorer sneaks out. If you plan supervised outdoor time, add a harness and leash. Keep microchip info up-to-date for extra peace of mind.
- Breakaway collar with ID tag
- Harness and leash (for walks or vet trips)
- Carrier for safe transport
Setting Up Your Home: Tips for Success
Create a dedicated space where your new cat can eat, sleep, use the litter box, and hide if needed—especially in the first days while they adjust. Cardboard boxes make great hideaways; high spots let them observe safely.
- Confine your cat to one room at first with all essentials present.
- Add hiding places like boxes or covered beds.
- Gradually introduce other pets or family members under supervision.
If stress signs appear—like hiding more than usual or not eating—give your cat time to settle in quietly before expanding their access to the rest of the house.
The First Vet Visit & Ongoing Care
Soon after adoption, schedule a veterinary checkup for vaccinations, parasite prevention, dental care advice, and microchipping if not already done. Regular vet visits are key to long-term health.
Kittens vs Adult Cats: Special Considerations
Kittens require foods labeled “Complete and Balanced Nutrition” for all life stages; they may also need extra help with litter box training and smaller collars once they’re old enough. Elderly cats benefit from softer beds, accessible dishes, low-sided litter boxes, wet food options, and gentle playtime tailored to their mobility.
A Quick Checklist Before Bringing Kitty Home:
- Litter box & scoop with unscented litter/li>
- Ceramic/stainless steel food & water bowls/li>
- Nutritional food/treats/li>
- Shelter bed/li>
- Toys & enrichment items/li>
- Scratching post/cat tree/li>
- Brush/nail clippers/li>
- ID collar/harness/carrier/li>
If you start with these basics—and lots of patience—you’ll help your new companion settle in quickly while setting the stage for years of happy companionship!
