This post is sponsored by petMD and ARM & HAMMER™ Clump & Seal™, and the BlogPaws Professional Pet Blogger Network. I am being compensated for helping spread the word about The petMD Cat Care Center, but I only share information I feel is relevant to my readers. ARM & HAMMER™ Clump & Seal™ and petMD are not responsible for the content of this article.
We’ve had cats for as long as I remember as an adult. Since my father was more of a dog person, the first thing I did when I moved out on my own was to add a cat to our household. I remember being overwhelmed when I started thinking about what you need for your first cat. There were so many options.
What You Need For Your First Cat
Thirty years later, we’ve been blessed to have a number of different cats join us as part of our family. I’ve gained years of personal experience and had many discussions with our vet about what you need for your first cat. These are the basics of what you need for your first cat:
- Food. Check with the place you’re adopting your cat from to find out what food they’re used to. Be certain to choose a food that is appropriate for their age and weight. If you need to change their food, you’ll need to do it gradually.
- Food and water bowl. While you can use bowls from your cupboard, you’ll see less messes from spills if you get bowls that are intended to hold cat food and water. I have always found it easiest to get two separate bowls rather than one double bowl.
- Cat carrier. It will be easiest and the least traumatic for your cat if you transport them in a cat carrier rather than putting them in a cardboard box or trying to hold them during the ride home.
- Scratching post. Cats love to scratch and to encourage them NOT to scratch on your walls or furniture, you should provide them with a sturdy cat scratching post.
- Places to play and hide. Cats are adventurous by nature and love to play and hide. You can purchase a few cat trees or simply use empty cardboard boxes and empty paper bags. They’ll have a great time jumping on and playing in them.
- Cat toys. Experiment a bit and see what type your cat enjoys the best. At the least, pick up a few toy mice with catnip in them.
- Litter box and cat litter. I choose a kitty litter that is 100% dust free. It’s better for you and better for your cat because no one will be breathing in dust when the box is used or changed.
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In addition to the supplies I listed above, you’ll also need resources to turn to when you have questions. The petMD Cat Care Center is a great source of information on everything to do with your new pet including bringing a new cat into your home. I recommend Introducing a New Kitten to Your Home for some really valuable tips for the first time you bring your new pet home.
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