New Cat Tips

Cats make wonderful pets. They are clean, often quiet and they don't require a lot of maintenance. You can also safely leave your cat on its own all day or for an overnight trip, unlike dogs which need to be fed and let out several times per day. Each cat is unique with its own personality and quirks, just like people. However, how to care for your new cat is pretty much the same regardless of what breed you choose.

  1. Prepare your Home for your New Cat

    • The first thing you will want to do is prepare a space for your cat and get all of the necessary supplies and equipment. Whether or not you decide to have an indoor, outdoor or indoor/outdoor cat, you will need to keep your new cat inside for about a week so it can get used to its new home and figure out that this is where it needs to come back to for food and love.

      Set up an area for the litter box (the bathroom is popular) and if you plan on having an indoor cat, get a covered one to reduce the amount of litter on the floor. In addition to a clean, filled litter box, you will need a feeding area that has a food bowl and fresh water. You might want to pick up a couple of extras too, like cat toys, treats, catnip or cat grass. You will certainly want a scratching post if you have an indoor cat.

      Whether it's an indoor cat or not, get a breakaway cat collar with a tag containing your contact information. Even indoor cats get out once in a while.

    Kitty Proofing

    • Just like when you have an infant or toddler in the house, kittens and cats need a little baby proofing too. Try to look at your home from the cat's perspective. Are there dangling cords to pull that can knock heavy objects over? Breakables to knock over? Cats love bags, and plastic bags can trap a kitten just like a baby. Cords for blinds and window shades can be dangerous too. Lock up poisons and medicines in places where curious kitties can't reach them.

    Introducing your Cat

    • Just like you wouldn't like a giant picking you up and dropping you into a whole new world, cats need some time to adjust as well. Place the cat carrier in a secure room and open the door. Don't pull the cat out, but rather let them come out and explore at their own pace. Cats are very curious; it won't take long. This is especially important if there are other animals in the house already. This gives all animals an opportunity to smell each other and get used to the idea of shared housing without being frightened by a confrontation. After a day, you can start introducing your cat to new areas in the house.

      Some of the more timid cats will find a place and hide for what seems like days. You shouldn't be worried about this as it is natural for some cats. Given time, they will start to emerge once they feel the coast is clear and there is no danger. You can reach your hand into the hiding place every now and then for some reassuring pets, but don't try to force the cat out of hiding.

    Keep Your New Pet Healthy

    • As soon as your new friend has settled in, be sure to get him or her into the vet for a checkup, vaccinations and spaying/neutering if you haven't already done so. Regular medical care is important for pets and humans. There are many dangers in the world for domestic cats, so you should seriously consider keeping your cat indoors. Fights with other animals or being hit by a car, among other dangers, can lead to high vet bills, not to mention injury or death to your cat.