Essential Items for Your New Cat

by Niko Gabriel Salgado

Cats are fascinating, captivating, and somewhat peculiar beings. If you are fortunate to have their affection, it becomes your duty to provide them with a comfortable and enjoyable home.

They require proper attention and care, and it is essential to have indispensable items accessible at all times.

Dr. Paige Garnett, in “Must Have Supplies and Essentials for Your Cat” in the Cat Friendly Homes site, provides a list of basic supplies your feline friend will need:

Food

Pick a food designated for your cat’s life stage. For instance, a kitten requires distinct nutrients compared to an adult cat.

Ask your veterinarian which food is best for your cat or buy a small amount of what your cat is currently eating and then consult with your veterinarian, says Garnett.

Once you find a good quality cat food, suitable for the age of your cat, stock up and offer it daily, Garnett adds.

Litter boxes

They will require a designated spot to attend to their bathroom needs. Make sure to provide them with a litter box.

Garnett says that a large litter box is ideal for urination and defecation. The litter box should be one-and-a-half-times the size of your cat. This gives them enough room to enter, turn around, scratch and eliminate.

Food and water bowls

Upon your cat’s arrival, it is important to have food and water bowls ready. Ensuring the bowls are clean and appealing is essential. In the case of adopting a kitten, opt for smaller and shallower bowls. Remember to clean the bowls daily and place them away from the litter box. Cats prefer separate areas for eating and relieving themselves.

Cat trees, scratch post, toys

Scratching is a natural behavior for cats, it’s important to include an acceptable place for scratching in your home, Garnett says.

Scratching posts, cat trees, and cardboard boxes are ideal options. Find out which your cat prefers texture-wise, Garnett adds.

When it comes to toys, offer your cat a variety of choices like strings, fish poles, or feather wands.

According to Garnett, toys encourage physical and mental stimulation and allow your cat to use its natural hunting and stalking behaviors.

Cat beds

While cats are known to sleep wherever they desire, providing them with a designated, special space serves as a pleasant hideaway that aligns with their natural instinct for a cozy den.

Collars

Collars are essential when beginning your journey with a cat.

All cats should have a collar and identification tag, even if your cat stays indoor. It helps identify your cat when they escape, says Garnett.

Cat carrier

If you are introducing a new cat to your home, visiting the veterinarian, or embarking on a car trip, a cat crate offers a reassuring layer of protection, providing a sense of security throughout the journey.

About the Author: Niko Gabriel Salgado is a graduate of Consular and Diplomatic Affairs and worked at the House of Representatives. He is an entrepreneur and a volunteer of Save Animals of Love and Light- Save ALL.

This article also appears in the Manila Standard