New Cat Starter Checklist: 12 Essentials Before Gotcha Day
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Bringing a cat home is exciting. A little preparation makes the first weeks calmer for everyone.
The essentials
- Carrier for the trip home and vet visits.
- Litter box and litter in a quiet spot.
- Food and water bowls or a fountain.
- Quality cat food that matches your cat’s age.
- Scratching post, ideally two styles.
- Bed or cozy hideaway.
- Toys including a wand and something to chase.
- Grooming brush suited to the coat.
- Identification: a microchip and, if you like, a breakaway collar.
- Safe room with everything above for the first days.
- Cat-proofing: hide cords, toxic plants and small objects.
- A vet appointment booked early.
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Starter Ventilated Carrier
Your first purchase: a secure carrier for the journey home.
Pros
- Secure
- Easy cleaning
Cons
- Check size for adult cats
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Slow-Feed Bowl or Fountain
Fresh, appealing water from day one.
Pros
- Encourages drinking
Cons
- Needs cleaning
The first week
Start in one quiet room so your cat can settle. Let them come out on their own schedule, and expand their territory gradually.
Keep food, water and the litter box apart from each other. Cats prefer separate spaces for eating and toileting.
Our verdict
Focus on safety, litter and food first. Toys, trees and extras can follow once you learn your cat’s preferences.