What Do You Need?
Cat Bed
Most cats do not feel secure at floor level and they often prefer to be high up. Try a cat bed somewhere high up that your cat has easy access to.
Litter Tray
A litter tray, cat litter and a scoop are essential. Their litter tray should always be accessible and easy to find. Choose a box that is deep enough to keep your cat from scattering litter when they dig. It’s best to use about two inches of litter in the bottom of the tray.
Food
Initially, feed your cat the same diet as it has been used to and once it has settled in, you can gradually change it onto your chosen diet. A cat needs a balanced diet and none more so than a kitten, to provide for growth, maintenance and energy. Cats are naturally carnivorous animals and need to eat meat to live, do not be tempted to try and bring up your cat as a vegetarian.
Water
Although water is not regarded as a nutrient it is essential to life. It can be argued that its provision is more crucial than a supply of food; a cat can survive much longer without food than it could without water. Water has many roles in the body: It transports nutrients and metabolites in the blood. It is a vital part of the temperature regulation system. It is essential for the digestion and metabolism of food.
Cat Carrier
A cat carrier is essential, even if you plan to travel no further with your cat than the Veterinary Clinic. If you accustom your cat to the carrier from an early age, it will make future trips to the Clinic or Groomer much easier. Look for one that will be roomy, well ventilated, escape proof and easy to clean.
Brushes and Combs
Cats need help with their grooming. While grooming your cat, take the opportunity to have a quick health check of your pet. Grooming should be a regular part of your cat’s routine. Although your cat will probably want to make a game of it and try to bite the brush and comb, they will soon come to appreciate the attention they receive.
Scratching Posts
A scratching post will give your cat a place to stretch and exercise, as well as keeping their claws in good condition. It will also help to prevent them from using your furniture to satisfy these needs! The secret is to show the cat what to do. Hold them near the post and scratch their claws on the surface. They will soon form an attachment to their new toy.
Lead and Collar or Harness
Most cats don’t like to walk on a lead. Some cat breeds –notably Siamese– do enjoy walking on a lead with their owners. For cat owners in urban environments, however , a lead may be the only way for your cat to enjoy the outdoors. If you plan to use a collar or harness, your cat should be introduced to it early on. A collar should be elastic or have a breakaway section, so that the cat can escape if the collar catches on an object. A collar or harness should carry identification in case your cat gets lost.
Nail Cutters
If you need to clip your cat’s nails use sharp cat nail cutters (if they are not sharp, the nails can split). Approach this task when the cat is sleeping or very relaxed. Push out the claw and trim off the tip of the nail. Avoid hitting the quick (the pink part in the nail) as it can cause them to bleed.
- Look around your house first, at high shelves and low cupboards and hidden nooks. Do you see things that your cat might break, or harmful substances she or he might ingest?
- Fold and secure your window blind cords with a rubber band, out of your feline’s reach.
- If you don’t want to find your floors littered with garbage, invest in covered wastebaskets and kitchen garbage containers.
- Always keep the door to your clothes dryer closed, and double-check inside before using it. Cats like to find dark, warm places to sleep.
- Keep the floor and area clean of stray rubber bands, ribbon, thread and twine. All are hazardous when ingested by a cat.
- Keep cupboard doors and dresser drawers securely closed. Cats can find all kinds of mischief inside.
- Cloth drapes are better left out of reach of your furry “curtain-climber”. Tie them up securely until your cat is trained to a scratching post.
- Keep your toilet lid down at all times. Better yet, keep your bathroom off-limits to your cat unless you absolutely have to keep his or her litter box there.
- Poisonous items. Anti-freeze is very tasty to animals, and is just one of the common poisonous substances found in garages. There are a number of household plants poisonous to cats as well.
- Cover all electrical cords.
Preparing Your Home Checklist |
 Cat Bed | Cat Basket or Carrier |
| Litter Tray and Scoop - Litter Mat | Brushes or Combs |
| Litter | Leash and Collar or Harness |
| Food and Water Bowls | Nail Trimmer - Styptic Powder |
| Food |
|
Don't Forget About... |
| Toys | Play Time
|
Cat Treats
| Stain Remover
|
Cat Grass
| Dental Kit
|
| Grooming | Pet I.D. Tag
|
Scratching Post
| Pampering |
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