10 Things You Need to Prepare Your Home For a New Cat or Kitten
Is your family welcoming a new kitten or cat into your home? Then take a look through this checklist for a new cat to make sure your home is ready to go!
1. Food
Food for Kittens:
- Look for cat food with “complete and balanced nutrition” on the label because kittens need more fats and proteins while they are growing.
- Look for food specifically formulated for kittens. Such food will say things like “highly digestible, nutrient-dense and uniquely designed to meet kittens’ nutritional requirements”
- Canned food is better for kittens than dry food.
Food for Adult Cats:
- Canned food is generally better for cats, but if your cat is used to dry food, that works too.
- Dry cat food from premium brands are a great option.
2. Food and Water Bowls
You want to get food and water bowls that have a non-lead glaze or is stainless steel. Any plastic bowls are not recommended for cats because they may develop rashes from the plastic bowls.
3. Litter Box & Litter
Whether you have an indoor or outdoor cat, you will need a quality litter box. Choose a litter box that :
- is sizable with high sides for grown cats
- is low enough for them to enter easily
For the litter, anything that is plant based is the safest. A mat under the box to catch stray litter is another great item that you can consider getting.
4. Bed
Choose a bed that is comfortable, washable, and spacious enough for an adult cat to curl up. But make sure it isn’t too big, because your cat may feel vulnerable and exposed.
5. Collar and ID tag

pictured: GoTags Stainless Steel Pet ID Tags
This is a must-have you will want for your cat, in case he or she ever gets lost. Make sure the tag has:
- your name
- address
- telephone number
Additionally, make sure the collar has an automatic release incase your cat gets stuck on something. Doing this will ensure your cats ultimate safety.
6. Carrier or Crate
You will want to invest in a crate that has a solid fiberglass bottom or a tough plastic carrier with a secure latch. Also make sure your carrier or crate has a screened opening out of which your cat can look.
7. Scratching Posts
A scratching post is a great investment for a new cat or kitten because they will scratch if you like it or not. You can get one from your local pet store, Amazon, or make one yourself.
8. Toys

pictured: Legendog 5Pcs Catnip Toy
Your cat or kitten will love any kind of interactive toy. Be sure that the toys you get are sturdy enough that small kittens won’t tear off feather or other random parts.
9. Grooming tools
Not only will grooming tools help your cat look cleaner, it is also a great way to bond and connect with your new cat or kitten. You will want grooming tools such as:10. A Vet Appointment
This is a crucial part to bringing a new cat or kitten to your home. If the cat you’ve adopted hasn’t already been to vet, this needs to be your first stop for your new friend. You will want to make sure your cat has received their vaccinations and negative test results for various diseases and medical conditions.
Sources: The Spruce Pets and Comfort Zone
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