Essential Supplies for Your New Kitty

When you bring a cat home for the first time you want to ensure the best possible introduction to you and his new environment. This means it's essential that you have all the necessary supplies for your new kitty, not only for a successful introduction, but also for the cats general well-being and health. Here is a list of the necessary supplies you will want to have.

Litter Box - You will need a Litter box to ensure your cat doesn't have any accidents on the floor. The Litter box can also be thought of as your cats bathroom or toilet. Cats are clean animals and do not like to have accidents, so if you have a litter box handy your cat will use it.

Litter - A Litter box is only useful if you have cat litter in it. There are numerous kinds to choose from such as, clumping, crystal, and paper, but the most commonly used one is clumping litter as it is relatively easy to clean. However, make sure you fill the litter box with enough litter so your cat can dig in it to hide his business.

Litter Scoop - You will need to clean your litter box on a regular basis and dispose of the mess. As mentioned cats are clean animals and will stop using their litter box if it becomes too dirty. You will need to use the scoop to clean out the litter box.

Food & Water Dishes - These will be used to feed your Cat food and water on a regularly basis. Do ensure you wash them regularly as dirty dishes can cause cats to develop acne.

Dry Food - Do talk to your Veterinarian about a healthy food to feed your cat. You will want a dry food that will have the additional health benefits necessary for your cat to live a long and healthy life.

Wet Food - Wet Food is also essential in a cats diet. You do not need to give your cat a lot, but a little daily should suffice. It is important as it prevents the cat from developing crystals. Most cats enjoy wet food so you shouldn't have a problem with getting him to eat it, but again do speak with your Veterinarian about the healthiest option.

Toys - It's always fun, not to mention healthy to have a little stimulation for your cat. A few toys scattered around the house will keep him entertained for hours.

Scratching Post - This will prevent your cat from using your furniture to sharpen his claws. If you start him using it right away it will become a regular habit for him and will keep your furniture safe. There are many different sizes and shapes to choose from these days. Some scratching posts are relatively straight forward while others can become your cats own acrobatic gym. Refer to my article on How to Train your Cat to use a Scratching Post.

Cat Bed, House, or Blanket - This is especially important for a brand new little kitten that has just been separated from his mother and brothers and sisters. It will help him feel safe and warm while he is adjusting to the separation. Often this will become their safety spot until they adjust to their new environment.

Cat Carrier - This is important for a few reasons. You will need something to take your new cat home in. Most cats won't just settle down comfortably in your arms for the ride home unless they are tiny kittens. You will also need a carrier to transport your cat to Vet appointments, or any necessary movements. If you are getting a kitten make sure you consider how much he will grow so you won't need to purchase another carrier six months down the road.

Treats - It's always nice to have a few treats handy for those times you feel like spoiling your kitty. Keep in mind you don't want to feed him too many, but a few every so often is a great treat for your cat. There are healthy alternatives to treats these days which offer dental hygiene to your cat in addition to tasting good.

Brush - If your cats hair is medium to long in length it will be very important to invest in a grooming brush. This will prevent your cats fur from matting as well as keeping the shedding under control.