How to Plan and Prepare For Your New Cat

If you have decided to bring a cat into your family, it is important that your home is set up properly or “cat proofed” for your new family member. Cat-proofing your home can go a long way in helping your cat settle in and learn his boundaries. The easier you can make it on your new cat to transition into his new home, the sooner you and your new pet can bond.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. A cat carrier is a must. Anyone who has ever obtained a new cat and traveled with one can tell you that most cats do not enjoy riding in a car. They can become very stressed, and they may bolt as soon as the car door opens. Purchasing a sturdy cat carrier that is well ventilated is the easiest way to get your new cat from his present location to his new home. You should line the bottom of the cat carrier with newspaper, in case nature calls while your new cat is being transported.

2. You should purchase a cat litter box, litter and a scooper. There are many different kinds of cat litter boxes on the market. Most cat owners prefer covered litter boxes. They cut down on the amount of litter that is scattered around and they can provide the cat with a degree of privacy, too. The only drawback to a covered litter box is that you will have to remove the lid when it comes time to scoop the litter, but most cat owners do not mind doing this. There are many different kinds of litter to choose from, too. You can choose from flushable, scoopable, dust-free litter, biodegradable and more.

3. You should purchase sturdy food and water dishes. Many pet owners avoid plastic food and water dishes because some cats many develop “acne” on their faces from the plastic. You should also watch out for dishes that have lead-based glazes on them. These can be toxic to your cat. Once you have selected your food and water dishes, you may want to consider purchasing a small tray or place mat to place the dishes on. This will keep the floor from being soiled by any spills.

4. You should purchase either a cat brush or cat comb. Long-haired cats should be combed. Short-haired cats should be brushed. Having these on hand and using them from the start can acquaint your cat with being groomed and save stress down the road.

5. Purchase a few cat toys to have on hand to distract your cat from things that he shouldn’t be playing with. Many cat owners purchase a water bottle, too. When a new cat is playing with something he shouldn’t or being destructive owners will say “no” and give the cat a spray of water.

6. You should seriously consider purchasing a scratching post for your new cat. Even cats that have their claws removed still love to stretch out their paws and scratch.

7. Many people will purchase a small sticker to place on the door of their home that alerts people that there is a cat in the home. This is done to protect the cat. It alerts any emergency personnel that may arrive at your home in the event of a fire or other type of emergency that they should be on the lookout for a cat.

8. To keep your new cat safe, you should make sure your windows are covered with window screens, store your cleaning supplies away and remove toxic plants.

9. Choose a permanent location for his food and water dishes and litter boxes. Have these set up prior to the arrival of your new cat.

10. If you have a chimney in your home, you should close the flue. You would be surprised at how many cats will become trapped in a chimney or escape out of a chimney.

11. Locate a veterinarian for your new cat and schedule his first checkup.