Top 10 Essential Supplies Every New Cat Owner Should Have

Ready to welcome a new cat? Here are the top 10 essential supplies for new cat owners:

1. Cat litter box

2. Cat litter

3. Food and water bowls

4. Cat food

5. Cat bed

6. Cat scratching post

7. Cat toys

8. Cat brush

9. Cat nail clippers

10. Cat carrier

You want your cat to feel safe and comfortable from day one. Practical tips and smart products like Petcantalk’s Polar Smart Wet Food Feeder and Cat Starter Kit make it easy. Use this checklist to keep your home safe—secure cords, store food, and set up cozy spots.

Key Takeaways

• Get your home ready with things like a litter box, food bowls, and a scratching post. These items help your cat feel safe and cozy.

• Pick good food and water bowls made from stainless steel or glass. This helps keep your cat healthy and clean.

• Buy a cat tree to help your cat move and play. It keeps your cat active and happy.

Essential Supplies for New Cat Owners

Litter Box & Litter

When you bring home a new cat, the litter box is one of the first things you need. You want a box that fits your cat’s size and is easy to clean. Some boxes have self-cleaning features, which can save you time. Here’s a quick look at what matters most:

Picking the right litter is just as important. You want litter that controls odor and is gentle on your cat’s paws. Here are some tips:

• Choose litter with good odor absorption.

• Look for low-dust options to protect your cat’s breathing.

• Pick clumping litter for easy cleaning.

• Try natural or biodegradable materials if your cat has sensitive skin.

• Avoid heavily scented litters, which can bother your cat.

If you want everything in one box, the Petcantalk Cat Starter Kit gives you a litter box, scoop, and wipes. This kit makes it easy to check off the essential supplies for new cat owners.

Tip: If your cat avoids the litter box, try changing the litter type or box location.

Food & Water Bowls

Your cat needs safe bowls for food and water. Stainless steel and glass bowls are best because they don’t hold germs and are easy to clean. Ceramic bowls look nice, but make sure they’re labeled food-safe and lead-free. Avoid plastic bowls since they can cause health problems.

Elevated bowls can help your cat eat comfortably. They reduce strain on joints and help with digestion, especially for older cats.

Note: Wash bowls daily to keep your cat healthy.

Cat Food Choices

Choosing the right food is key for your cat’s health. Kittens need food with high protein and fat for growth. Adult cats do better with moderate protein and fat to maintain their weight. Here’s a quick guide:

Wet food offers many benefits. It helps with urinary health, keeps your cat hydrated, and is easier for cats with dental issues. The Polar Smart Wet Food Feeder from Petcantalk keeps wet food fresh for up to three days and makes serving simple. This feeder is a smart addition to your list of essential supplies for new cat owners.

Cat Bed

Cats love cozy spots to sleep. You want a bed that fits your cat and is easy to clean. Enclosed beds give cats a sense of security, while open loungers let them stretch out. For most cats, an 18-20 inch wide bed works well. Open beds should be about 1.5 times your cat’s length.

• Choose soft, fluffy materials for comfort.

• Look for removable covers for easy washing.

• Place the bed near you to help your cat feel safe.

Tip: Put the bed in a quiet spot with familiar scents.

Cat Carrier

A sturdy carrier keeps your cat safe during travel. Look for carriers with good ventilation, secure fastenings, and comfy padding. Some carriers double as beds, which is handy for trips. Make sure the carrier fits your cat’s size and meets safety standards.

Note: Always check the carrier’s weight limit and safety features before buying.

Scratching Post

Scratching posts protect your furniture and keep your cat’s claws healthy. You can choose from draping scratchers, corner protectors, or adhesive scratchers. Place the post near your cat’s favorite spot to encourage use.

• Draping scratchers cover furniture.

• Corner protectors shield edges.

• Adhesive scratchers fit tight spaces.

The Petcantalk Cat Starter Kit includes a scratch board, making it easy to add this to your essential supplies for new cat owners.

Cat Toys

Toys keep your cat active and happy. Interactive toys help with exercise, mental stimulation, and stress relief. Try different types to see what your cat likes best.

• Toys encourage movement and prevent obesity.

• Interactive toys keep your cat’s mind sharp.

• Playtime reduces stress and anxiety.

Tip: Rotate toys to keep playtime exciting.

Grooming Tools

Regular grooming keeps your cat’s coat shiny and reduces shedding. You need the right tools for your cat’s hair type.

The Petcantalk Cat Starter Kit comes with a comb, nail clipper, and grooming gloves. This makes grooming easy for new cat owners.

ID & Safety

You want your cat to stay safe, especially if they go outside. Use both ID tags and microchips for the best protection. Tags give instant contact info, while microchips offer permanent identification.

Note: Update your contact info if you move or change numbers.

Vet Visit Prep

Getting ready for the first vet visit helps your cat feel calm. Prepare the carrier with soft bedding and familiar scents. Bring treats, toys, and a grooming brush. Let your cat use the litter box before leaving. Stay positive and use gentle words.

1. Set up the carrier with comfy bedding.

2. Avoid feeding a large meal before travel.

3. Tell the vet about your cat’s likes and dislikes.

4. Use treats and toys for comfort.

5. Stay calm to help your cat relax.

The Petcantalk Cat Starter Kit covers many of these needs, making it one of the most essential supplies for new cat owners.

Tip: Bring a towel with your scent to help your cat feel safe.

Food Storage & Water Fountain

Food Storage Container

You want your cat’s food to stay fresh and safe. An airtight food storage container helps you do that. These containers keep air out, so the food doesn’t spoil quickly or lose its nutrients. Moisture stays away, which means less chance for bacteria to grow. You can also keep the original packaging inside, so you always know the expiration date and batch code.

• Prevents air from spoiling food and lowering nutrition.

• Blocks moisture, stopping bacteria from growing.

• Keeps packaging with important info like expiration dates.

If you’re looking for a starter kit, Petcantalk’s Cat Starter Kit includes a food storage container. This makes it easy to organize your cat’s meals and check off another item from your list of essential supplies for new cat owners.

Tip: Store dry and wet food separately to keep everything fresh.

Water Fountain Benefits

Cats love running water. A water fountain gives your cat a steady stream of clean, filtered water. Flowing water stays fresh longer and doesn’t collect as much bacteria as a regular bowl. Many cats drink more when they see moving water, which helps them stay hydrated. This is great for cats who eat dry food or have urinary problems.

Drinking fountains encourage cats to drink more. The sound and movement attract them, making water more appealing. You might notice your cat visiting the fountain often throughout the day.

Note: Clean the fountain every week to keep water fresh and safe.

Cat Tree & Cozy Spaces

Cat Tree

A cat tree is more than just a piece of furniture. It gives your cat a place to climb, scratch, and play. You help your cat stay active and happy when you add a cat tree to your home. Cats love to explore different levels and jump from one spot to another. This keeps their minds sharp and their bodies strong.

Here’s why a cat tree matters for your cat’s health:

1. Cat trees encourage exploration and play, which boost your cat’s brain power.

2. They challenge your cat’s problem-solving skills as they move between levels.

3. High spots on the tree give your cat a safe place to watch the world, which helps lower stress.

You also get scratching posts built into most cat trees. These let your cat stretch and care for their claws. Scratching helps your cat relax and keeps your furniture safe.

Tip: Place the cat tree near a window. Your cat will love watching birds and people outside!

Cozy Retreats

Cats need quiet places to rest and feel safe. You can create cozy retreats with soft beds, covered condos, or even a simple cardboard box. These spots give your cat a break from noise and busy spaces.

“Cats prefer cozy spaces that provide safety and security, such as hiding boxes, covered cat condos, or even accessible cardboard boxes. Studies indicate that these hiding spots are not just luxuries but essential for their well-being, as they spend the most time in areas where they can retreat and feel secure.”

You help your cat feel at home when you set up these special spots.

Getting all your cat’s essentials ready before they arrive helps your new friend settle in faster and feel safe.

• Gather food, bowls, toys, grooming tools, a carrier, a scratching post, and a litter box.

• Make sure your cat feels at home from day one.

Starter kits and smart feeders save you time and money.

As your cat grows, check their needs often.

• Change food for better nutrition.

• Talk to your vet about diet and comfort.

• Add ramps or nightlights if needed.

Your cat’s happiness starts with the right supplies and a little planning!

FAQ

What should you do if your cat ignores the new bed?

Try moving the bed to a quiet spot. Add a blanket with your scent. Your cat may feel safer and start using it.

Tip: Sprinkle a little catnip on the bed to attract your cat.

How often should you clean your cat’s litter box?

You should scoop the litter box every day. Wash the box with mild soap once a week to keep it fresh and odor-free.

Do you need a scratching post if your cat stays indoors?

Yes! Indoor cats need scratching posts to keep their claws healthy and to avoid scratching your furniture. Scratching also helps your cat relax.

🐾 Scratching is natural for cats. Give them a safe spot to do it!