10 Must-Have Supplies Every New Cat Parent Needs in 2025

When you bring home a new cat, having the right supplies matters. You want your cat to feel safe and happy from day one. Things like a cozy bed, a clean litter box, and quality food help reduce stress and keep your cat healthy. Cat Starter Kit Guide: What Every New Owner Needs shows why preparation counts.

Key Takeaways

• Make a Cat Starter Kit with things like food dishes, a litter box, and a scratching post. These items help your new cat feel safe at home. - Pick good products that are comfy, safe, and easy to clean. This will help keep your cat happy and healthy. - Groom your cat often and use ID tags or microchips. These steps are important for your cat's health and safety.

Cat Starter Kit Guide: What Every New Owner Needs

Essential Supplies Overview

You want your new cat to feel at home right away. The Cat Starter Kit Guide: What Every New Owner Needs helps you get organized. Veterinarians in 2025 recommend starting with these basics:

1. Food and water dishes

2. Kitten food or adult food, depending on age

3. Litter and litter box

4. Scratching post

5. Toys for play and learning

6. Bed for comfort

7. Cat carrier for travel

8. Grooming supplies

9. Collar and identification tag

10. First aid kit

If you’re on a budget, you can use simple items like a cardboard scratcher or a pillow on a windowsill for a perch. Cats love basic toys, even toilet paper rolls. Try to factor in both one-time and recurring costs. Setting up a pet fund helps you manage expenses.

Tip: Don’t forget about grooming, flea treatment, and dental care. Many new cat owners skip these, but they keep your cat healthy and happy.

How to Choose Quality Products

Picking the right supplies makes a big difference. The Cat Starter Kit Guide: What Every New Owner Needs suggests looking for products that offer comfort, safety, and easy cleaning. Here’s a quick table to help you compare:

Choose supplies that fit your cat’s needs and your lifestyle. You’ll feel confident, and your cat will thrive.

Litter Box

A clean litter box is very important for your cat. Your cat feels safe when the box is fresh and easy to find. If the box is dirty, your cat can get sick. Some health problems are:

• Gastrointestinal problems like vomiting and diarrhea

• Behavioral problems such as going outside the box

• Too much grooming from skin irritation or urinary tract infections

• Eating less or more because of stress

• Bacterial infections, including Salmonella and E. Coli

• Parasitic infections like Toxoplasma gondii

• Breathing problems from ammonia in the air

• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)

• Feline interstitial cystitis, which causes bladder pain

• Kidney problems from holding in waste

Types of Litter Boxes

There are many litter box choices in 2025. Most cats like standard open boxes. Covered boxes give privacy and help with smell. Self-cleaning litter boxes are cheaper now and save time. Some new boxes use sensors to scoop waste by themselves. Eco-friendly boxes use recycled materials. These are good for the planet and your home.

Tip: Kittens and older cats need boxes with low sides. This helps them get in and out without trouble.

Placement Tips

Put the litter box in a quiet place. Your cat should feel safe there. Do not put it near loud things or busy spots. Keep it away from food and water bowls. If you have more than one cat, give each cat a box and add one more. Check the box every day and scoop out waste. This keeps your cat healthy and happy.

Cat Litter

Litter Types

Choosing the right cat litter can make your life easier and keep your cat happy. You’ll find three main types in stores: clumping, non-clumping, and natural litters.

• Clumping litter forms solid clumps when your cat uses the box. You can scoop out only the dirty parts, so the box stays fresh longer. Many cats like the texture, and it helps control odors well. Some clumping litters can be dusty, which may bother cats with allergies.

• Non-clumping litter absorbs moisture but does not form clumps. You need to change it more often, or odors can build up. This type is usually less expensive but may not last as long.

• Natural litters use materials like corn, pine, or recycled paper. These are biodegradable and better for the planet. Odor control can vary, so you might need to try a few to see what works best for your cat.

Tip: If your cat has breathing issues, look for low-dust or dust-free options.

Eco-Friendly Choices

You can help the environment by picking eco-friendly cat litter. Here’s a quick look at how different litters compare:

Plant-based and recycled paper litters break down naturally and support a cleaner home. You’ll also notice less dust, which means better air for you and your cat. Choosing the right litter helps both your pet and the planet.

Food and Water Bowls

Material Options

Choosing the right food and water bowls helps keep your cat healthy. You want bowls that are safe, easy to clean, and gentle on your cat’s skin. Some materials work better than others:

• Stainless steel: This is a top choice. It’s sturdy, doesn’t hold germs, and is simple to wash. Vets often recommend it because it keeps things hygienic.

• Ceramic: Pick ceramic bowls that are labeled lead-free and food-safe. They look nice and clean up well, but check for chips or cracks.

• Glass: Glass bowls are non-porous and safe if they’re free of lead. They’re also dishwasher-friendly.

• Plastic: Try to avoid plastic bowls. They can cause allergies and may trap bacteria. Some plastics even have chemicals that aren’t good for your cat.

Tip: Wash your cat’s bowls every day to stop germs from building up.

Automatic Feeders

Life gets busy, but your cat still needs regular meals. Automatic feeders and water fountains make feeding simple, especially in 2025. These devices give your cat food and water even when you’re not home. They help keep food fresh and make sure your cat eats on time.

Meet the Polar Smart Wet Food Feeder by Petcantalk. This feeder stands out with its sleek white design and easy one-click serving. You can serve your cat’s favorite wet food without any mess. It fits right into your home and saves you time. Petcantalk offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee, so you know you’re getting quality.

Automatic feeders and water fountains also help cats drink more water, which keeps their kidneys healthy. They’re perfect if you have more than one cat, making sure everyone gets their share. Just remember to check the devices often to keep everything running smoothly.

Cat Food

Kitten vs. Adult Food

You want your cat to grow up strong and healthy. The food you choose matters a lot. Kittens need special food because their bodies grow fast. Kitten food has more calories, protein, and fat than adult cat food. It also has extra DHA, which helps with brain and eyesight development. You will find higher levels of vitamins and minerals like calcium and Vitamin A in kitten food. These nutrients help kittens build strong bones and stay active.

Adult cats do not need as much energy as kittens. Their food has less fat and protein. This helps them stay at a healthy weight. Feeding adult food to kittens can slow their growth. Giving kitten food to adult cats can make them gain too much weight. Always check the label to make sure you pick the right food for your cat’s age.

Tip: Ask your vet if you are not sure when to switch from kitten food to adult food. Most cats switch around one year old.

Choosing High-Quality Brands

You want to give your cat the best. High-quality brands use safe ingredients and follow strict rules. They make sure your cat gets all the nutrients needed for a happy life. Here are some top-rated cat food brands in 2025:

Look for brands with good ratings and clear ingredient lists. If your cat has special needs, your vet can help you choose the right food. Always keep your cat’s health in mind when picking a brand.

Cat Bed

Comfort Features

Your cat loves a soft, cozy spot to curl up. A good bed helps your cat feel safe and relaxed. When you pick a bed, look for features that make it extra comfortable and supportive:

• Size & Space: Choose a bed big enough for your cat to stretch out or snuggle with a friend.

• Washability: Beds that go in the washing machine keep things clean and fresh.

• Durability: Strong stitching and scratch-resistant fabric help the bed last longer.

• Comfort & Support: Orthopedic foam is great for older cats. Donut-shaped beds give a sense of security.

• Enclosed vs. Open Designs: Some cats like to hide, while others want to see everything. Try both styles to see what your cat likes.

• Non-Slip Bottoms: These keep the bed from sliding on smooth floors.

• Color Choices: Neutral colors blend with your home and hide fur.

Modern cat beds in 2025 focus on comfort and health. You’ll find beds like the GauGau™ Round Fluffy Cat Bed, which keeps cats warm with raised walls. The GauGau™ Cat Tunnel Bed gives anxious cats a safe place to nap. Some beds have peek-a-boo windows for playful cats. Others use thick plush or orthopedic cushions to support joints and bones. These designs help your cat sleep better and feel happier.

Placement Ideas

Put your cat’s bed in a quiet, cozy spot. Cats love sunny windowsills, corners, or near your favorite chair. Avoid busy walkways or loud rooms. If you have more than one cat, place beds in different areas so everyone has a choice. Try moving the bed around to see where your cat feels most at home.

Tip: Place a favorite blanket or toy in the bed to help your cat settle in faster.

Scratching Post

Cats love to scratch. You might see your cat stretch out and dig their claws into the couch or carpet. Scratching is not just a habit—it’s a must for your cat’s health and happiness.

Types of Scratchers

You want to give your cat a sturdy, tall scratching post or pad. This helps protect your furniture and gives your cat a safe place to scratch. Here’s what makes a great scratcher in 2025:

Look for posts with weighted bases. Adult cats need at least 16×16 inches. Large breeds like Maine Coons do better with 20×20 inches. Wall anchors or brackets keep the post from tipping over, especially if your cat gets wild during play.

Tip: Place the scratcher near your cat’s favorite nap spot or by the window. Cats love to stretch and scratch after waking up.

Training Tips

You can teach your cat to use the scratching post. Try these steps:

• Show your cat the post and gently rub their paws on it.

• Use treats or catnip to make the post more fun.

• Praise your cat when they use the post.

• If your cat scratches the couch, move them to the post right away.

Scratching helps your cat stretch, keeps their claws sharp, and lets them mark their territory. It also relieves stress and gives your cat a way to express themselves. When you offer the right scratcher, you support your cat’s physical and mental health every day.

Cat Toys

Enrichment Toys

Cats need more than just food and a cozy bed. They crave fun and excitement every day. Toys keep your cat’s mind sharp and body active. When you offer a mix of enrichment toys, you help your cat stay happy and healthy.

You can find many types of toys in 2025. Puzzle feeders challenge your cat’s brain and make mealtime more interesting. Catnip toys spark curiosity and encourage playful behavior. Laser toys get your cat moving and chasing, which helps burn off extra energy. Durable toys last longer and stand up to rough play. Lightweight toys are great for solo play when you are busy.

Tip: Rotate your cat’s toys every week. This keeps things fresh and exciting for your furry friend.

Interactive Play

Playing with your cat is one of the best ways to bond. Wand toys are a favorite for many cats. You can wave the wand and watch your cat leap, pounce, and chase. This kind of play builds trust and brings you closer together.

Regular play with interactive toys does more than just entertain. It helps prevent stress and boredom, which can lead to unwanted behaviors. Your cat gets exercise, which supports a healthy weight and strong muscles. Playtime also boosts your cat’s confidence and sharpens problem-solving skills.

• Interactive toys engage natural hunting instincts.

• Puzzle feeders provide mental challenges.

• Laser toys keep your cat active.

• Catnip toys encourage curiosity.

• Durable, easy-to-use toys make playtime safe and fun.

Make play a daily habit. You will see your cat become more relaxed, alert, and joyful.

Grooming Supplies

Regular grooming keeps your cat looking and feeling great. When you brush and trim your cat’s nails, you help prevent health problems and make your cat more comfortable. Grooming also gives you a chance to spot any changes in your cat’s skin or coat early.

Brushes

Brushing your cat does more than just remove loose fur. It helps you bond with your cat and keeps their coat shiny and healthy. Here’s why you should brush your cat often:

• Brushing stimulates blood flow and spreads natural oils, which makes the coat soft and shiny.

• You can spot skin irritations, wounds, or parasites before they become serious.

• Regular brushing cuts down on hairballs by removing loose hair.

• You may notice lumps or bumps early, which helps you catch health issues fast.

• Brushing prevents mats and tangles, which can cause pain and skin irritation.

Choosing the right brush depends on your cat’s coat. Check out this quick guide:

You can also use pin brushes for daily care or deshedding tools once a month to control shedding.

Nail Clippers

Trimming your cat’s nails keeps them from getting too long or sharp. Long nails can snag on things or grow into the paw pad, which hurts your cat. Use clippers made for cats, like scissor-style or guillotine-style clippers. These tools give you control and help you avoid cutting too close.

Keep an eye out for signs of skin problems, such as redness, bald spots, or lots of scratching. These can mean your cat has fleas, allergies, or stress. If you notice your cat grooming too much or not enough, it could be a sign of pain or illness. Regular grooming helps you catch these problems early and keeps your cat happy and healthy.

Cat Carrier

A good cat carrier is a must-have for every cat parent. You want your cat to feel safe and comfortable when you travel, visit the vet, or move to a new home. The right carrier keeps your cat secure and makes your life easier.

Carrier Types

You can choose from several types of cat carriers. Hard-sided carriers are sturdy and protect your cat during travel. Soft-sided carriers are lighter and easier to carry. Backpack carriers let you keep your hands free and are great for short trips. Some carriers even have wheels for easy rolling through airports or busy streets.

When you pick a carrier, look for these important features:

• Enough space for your cat to stand, turn, and lie down

• Soft lining or a familiar blanket for comfort

• Plenty of ventilation on three sides and the door

• Strong locks and fasteners to prevent escapes

• Easy-to-clean surfaces and leak-proof floors

• No sharp edges inside to keep your cat safe

• Quick access doors for easy loading and emergencies

Tip: Attach food and water dishes inside the door for longer trips. This helps your cat stay calm and hydrated.

Travel Tips

Traveling with your cat can feel stressful, but you can make it easier. Place a favorite toy or blanket in the carrier to help your cat relax. Always label the carrier with "Live Animal" and use upright arrows to show which way is up. Make sure your cat cannot stick any part of their body outside the carrier.

Before you leave, check that the carrier is clean and free of toxic materials. Practice short trips at home so your cat gets used to the carrier. When you travel, keep the carrier secure in your car or under the seat if you fly. Your cat will feel safer, and you will have peace of mind knowing they are protected.

ID Tags and Microchipping

Importance of Identification

Losing a cat feels scary, but you can take steps to help your cat get home faster. ID tags and microchips make a huge difference. When your cat wears an ID tag, anyone who finds them can contact you right away. Microchips work as a backup. A vet or shelter can scan the chip and find your contact information.

You might wonder how well these methods work. Here’s what studies show:

• Microchipped cats have a return-to-owner rate of over 38%.

• Only about 2% of cats without microchips ever make it back home.

• According to the AVMA, 38.5% of lost microchipped cats are returned to their owners.

• In contrast, only 1.8% of non-microchipped cats are reunited.

These numbers show that microchips and ID tags really matter. You give your cat the best chance to come home if they ever get lost.

Safety Tips

You want your cat to stay safe and easy to identify. Try these best practices:

• Use both an ID tag and a microchip for your cat.

• Make sure the ID tag lists your name, address, and more than one phone number.

• Update your contact details with the microchip company as soon as anything changes.

• If you travel, add a temporary tag with a local contact.

• Choose a safety collar that breaks away if it gets caught on something.

Tip: Check your cat’s tags and microchip info every few months. Keeping everything current helps your cat get home quickly if they wander off.

Getting your supplies ready before your cat comes home helps a lot. You make a safe place for your cat. This lowers stress and helps your cat feel calm fast. The Cat Starter Kit Guide: What Every New Owner Needs lists all the basics you need. Each cat is unique, so change your supplies as you learn what your cat likes. Keep learning about new cat care ideas, like special food and earth-friendly products. This way, your cat always gets the best care.

FAQ

What supplies should I buy before bringing my cat home?

You need a litter box, food bowls, cat food, a bed, toys, a scratching post, grooming tools, a carrier, and ID tags.

How often should I clean my cat’s litter box?

You should scoop waste every day. Wash the box once a week. Your cat will stay healthy and your home will smell fresh.

Can I use regular bowls for my cat’s food and water?

You can use regular bowls, but stainless steel or ceramic bowls work best. These materials help prevent allergies and keep germs away.