Things to Prepare Before Adopting a Cat
Hello pet parents or future pet parents! If you or your family are considering adding a new member to the household, a cat (or maybe two!) might be on your list. But wait! Before bringing a new feline friend into your life, there are several important things to note and purchase to make sure your cat feels safe and comfortable in its new home.
1. Food
It may seem simple, but feeding a cat comes with deep considerations. As carnivores, cats naturally eat meat, but many factors affect the right food choice for your feline.
What’s your monthly budget for cat food? If your cat is under 1 year old, they’ll need food specifically formulated for kittens until they mature. Cats can eat either dry or wet food. Wet food is generally more expensive due to its higher meat content. If your cat is on an all-dry-food diet, vets recommend choosing high-quality brands without flour or fillers.
Some cats have special dietary needs due to illnesses, allergies, or old age. Cats with kidney disease, for example, need food that won’t worsen their condition. For such cases, it’s best to consult a veterinarian for tailored advice.
2. Litter Box
Litter is a type of clumping, absorbent material that mimics the natural behavior of cats, who instinctively bury their waste. That’s why indoor cats must have access to a litter box for their bathroom needs.
Pet parents are advised to have one litter box per cat, plus one extra. For example, if you have one cat, prepare two litter boxes. For two cats, prepare three boxes, and so on. Place them away from food areas and in well-ventilated spots—just like humans, cats don’t want their food near the smell of waste.
There are many types of litter—ranging from small to large granules, scented or unscented. Popular types include clay (bentonite) and tofu litter made from soy residue. There are also silica gel, paper pellets, and wood pellets.
When choosing litter, consider price, comfort, ease of cleaning, and odor control. Finer litter can stick to paws and create dust, while larger pellets may not clump well, making it harder to cover waste and potentially increasing odor. Every cat has their own preference, so some trial and error might be needed when introducing a new feline family member.
3. Toys
Cats need activities to stay engaged and avoid boredom. It’s often recommended to adopt two cats so they can be playmates. However, toys are still essential for exercise and entertainment. Without enough stimulation, cats may become destructive—like scratching your mattress or sofa.
To prevent this, dedicate 30–60 minutes daily for play sessions, adjusting based on your cat’s energy levels.
Cat toys usually mimic prey—birds, mice, insects, or fish. Try out a variety of toys with different shapes and textures to discover what your cat enjoys.
Some toys also include catnip or silvervine. These can be placed in plush toys or small pillows and help your cat relax or get more playful. Not all cats respond the same to these herbs, so observe your cat’s reaction.
4. Grooming
While cats groom themselves, they still need help cleaning hard-to-reach areas. Long-haired cats need daily brushing to avoid matting, which can become uncomfortable. Brushes come in different materials like metal, plastic, or silicone, and preferences vary by cat.
Kittens with mothers may get cleaned by them, but if they get dirty, you can bathe them using fragrance-free dish soap or baby shampoo.
Cats are generally recommended to be bathed every 4–6 weeks, but this depends on individual needs. Some breeds, like the hairless Sphynx, may need more frequent baths due to oily skin or dandruff. Outdoor cats also need more frequent cleaning.
Cats with skin issues or sensitivities will require special shampoos. Medicated shampoos should only be used under veterinary guidance.
5. Cat-Proofing
Finally, prepare your home by making it safe for your new cat. Keep harmful items out of reach—especially toxic plants and medications. Use childproof locks on cabinets or boxes to prevent your cat from getting into them.
You can also use pet fences or playpens to restrict access for kittens who can’t jump high yet.
References:
https://www.tuftandpaw.com/blogs/cat-guides/the-ultimate-guide-to-different-types-of-cat-litter
https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/looking-after-your-pet/kittens-cats/exercise-for-your-cat
https://www.huntersanimalhospital.com/site/blog/2023/02/28/bathe-cat-often
https://www.animalhumanesociety.org/resource/give-your-kitten-bath-these-simple-tips
https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants?field_toxicity_value%5B%5D=02
