Getting ready to welcome a new cat? You’re in the right place. In this guide, we’ll talk about some must-have cat essentials every owner needs.
Bringing a cat home is exciting, but it also comes with a few important responsibilities.
Your cat will need comfort, care, and a safe place to call home. From cozy beds to the right food, clean litter boxes, and fun toys, these basics make life easier for both you and your cat.
We’ll walk through each item, why it matters, and what to look for when buying it.
If you’re a first-time cat owner or adding another furry friend to your family, this list will help you start off right. Let’s make sure your cat feels loved, safe, and settled from the very first day.
Preparing Your Home for a New Cat
Before you bring your new cat home, preparing helps to get your space ready.
I always start by making sure the house feels safe and calm. Find a quiet corner where your cat can rest without too much noise or foot traffic.
Add a soft bed or blanket to make it cozy and welcoming.
Next, look around for things that could be risky, loose wires, open windows, or small items your cat might swallow.
Remove hazards before they turn into problems. I also like to have all my essentials ready in advance: food, litter box, scratching post, and toys. That way, your cat can settle in right away.
Taking these small steps helps your cat feel safe, relaxed, and at home from the moment they arrive. It also makes your first few days together a lot easier.
Essential Cat Supplies for the First-Time Owners
Before your cat arrives, it’s smart to gather all the essentials. Having everything ready makes the transition smoother and helps your cat feel safe from day one.
1. Food and Water Bowls
Choose sturdy, easy-to-clean bowls made from stainless steel or ceramic to avoid bacteria buildup and chafing.
Wide, shallow bowls like the Frisco Stainless Steel Bowl Set or PetRageous Stoneware Cat Dish help prevent whisker fatigue, keeping your cat comfortable while eating.
Place the bowls away from the litter box in a calm area and use a non-slip mat to catch spills.
Wash them daily and change the water often to ensure freshness. A clean, quiet feeding space keeps your cat healthy and stress-free.
2. High-Quality Cat Food
Your cat’s health starts with good nutrition. Pick high-quality cat food made with real meat as the first ingredient.
I recommend Hill’s Science Diet Adult Chicken Recipe, Blue Buffalo Wilderness Grain-Free, or Purina ONE Indoor Advantage, all provide balanced nutrition approved by AAFCO.
Avoid fillers like corn or soy, which can cause digestive issues. Feed your cat on a consistent schedule, and adjust portions as needed based on age and weight.
Nutritious food supports energy, coat health, and long-term well-being.
3. Litter Box
A good litter box keeps your cat clean and your home odor-free. Choose one that’s large enough for easy movement and digging.
The Nature’s Miracle Box limits scatter, while the IRIS Open Top gives easy access for larger or older cats. Place the box in a quiet, private spot away from food and water.
Clean it daily and wash it weekly using mild soap to remove buildup.
If you have more than one cat, follow the “one box per cat plus one” rule to prevent stress or accidents. Keeping the litter area fresh makes your cat feel secure and prevents unwanted messes around your home.
4. Cat Litter
The right cat litter can make all the difference for your cat’s comfort and your cleaning routine. Start with Dr. Elsey’s Precious Cat Ultra Clumping Litter, which is unscented and low-dust, great for sensitive cats.
Clumping formulas make scooping easier and help control odor naturally.
If your cat prefers softer textures, try Fresh Step Advanced Simply Unscented or Arm & Hammer Slide Easy Clean-Up for a gentle feel and low tracking.
Avoid strong scents, cats prefer natural litter. Keep it two inches deep, scoop daily, and replace weekly for comfort and cleanliness.
5. Litter Scoop and Mat
A litter scoop and mat make daily cleaning simple, fast, and more hygienic. I rely on the DuraScoop Original Metal Cat Litter Scoop because it’s sturdy, rust-resistant, and has a deep design that makes lifting clumps easy.
Pair it with the Gorilla Grip Durable Cat Litter Mat, which traps litter effectively and keeps it from spreading across your floors.
Place the mat under or beside the litter box to catch stray bits as your cat steps out. Shake it every few days to stay fresh, and keep a small bin nearby for easy disposal.
This setup saves time, cuts odor, and keeps you and your cat happy.
6. Scratching Post
A scratching post is essential for keeping your cat’s claws strong and your furniture safe.
Cats naturally scratch to stretch muscles and mark their scent. I recommend the SmartCat Ultimate Scratching Post or Frisco 33-Inch Sisal Cat Scratching Post, both tall, sturdy, and perfect for full-body stretches.
Place the post near where your cat naps or plays to make it inviting. You can sprinkle catnip or hang a small toy to attract them.
Regular scratching helps relieve stress, exercise muscles, and maintain healthy claw growth.
7. Cat Bed
A soft cat bed gives your cat a cozy spot to rest and feel secure. Look for a plush, washable bed like the Best Friends by Sheri Original Calming Donut Bed or the Frisco Sherpa Cat Bed.
Place it in a quiet, warm corner where your cat can nap without disturbance.
Cats love warmth and comfort, so choose materials that retain heat.
Wash the cover regularly to keep it clean and odor-free. Having a personal sleeping space helps your cat feel calm and settled.
8. Carrier
A reliable cat carrier makes travel and vet visits easier and less stressful. Choose one that’s sturdy, ventilated, and the right size for your cat.
The Petmate Two-Door Top Load Carrier and Sherpa Original Deluxe Carrier are both safe and comfortable.
Add a soft towel or blanket inside for cushioning. Leave the carrier open at home so your cat can get used to it naturally.
This helps reduce fear and builds trust, making future trips smoother for both of you.
9. Toys
Cats need toys to stay active and mentally sharp. I like using the Petstages Tower of Tracks for solo play and SmartyKat Skitter Critters Catnip Mice for hunting fun.
Wand toys or laser pointers work great for bonding time. Rotate toys weekly to keep your cat curious and engaged.
Avoid toys with small, detachable parts that could be swallowed.
Playtime keeps your cat fit, relieves boredom, and strengthens your bond. Just a few minutes of daily play can make a big difference.
10. Grooming Brush
Regular brushing helps your cat stay clean and reduces shedding. A grooming brush like the FURminator deShedding Tool or Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush works for most coat types.
Long-haired cats need brushing a few times a week, while short-haired ones benefit from light daily grooming.
Always brush gently in the direction of hair growth to avoid skin irritation.
Grooming also helps you spot fleas, bumps, or dry skin early. It’s a simple routine that keeps your cat’s coat healthy and your home cleaner.
11. Nail Clippers
Keeping your cat’s claws trimmed helps prevent scratches and snagging. Use nail clippers made for cats, like the JW Pet GripSoft Cat Nail Clippers or Safari Professional Nail Trimmer.
Always trim in a well-lit spot and only cut the clear tip, avoiding the pink quick that contains blood vessels.
If your cat is nervous, try clipping one or two nails at a time. Regular trimming every two to three weeks keeps claws manageable and reduces damage to furniture or skin.
12. Collar with ID Tag
A collar with an ID tag helps keep your cat safe if they ever slip outside.
Choose a breakaway collar like the Rogz Catz Breakaway Collar or Blueberry Pet Safety Collar, which releases under pressure to prevent choking.
Add a tag with your cat’s name and phone number for easy contact.
Lightweight collars are most comfortable for daily wear. Even indoor cats benefit from having ID tags in case of emergencies, ensuring they can always find their way back home.
13. Treats
Healthy cat treats are great for training, bonding, and rewarding good behavior.
I like using Temptations Classic Crunchy Treats, Greenies Feline Dental Treats, or Blue Buffalo Wilderness Cat Treats for their taste and nutrition.
Keep portions small, treats should make up less than 10% of your cat’s daily calories.
Use treats to encourage grooming, play, or carrier training. Always store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. A few crunchy bites can make your cat’s day extra special.
14. Cat Tree or Perch
A cat tree or perch gives your cat space to climb, rest, and observe.
Try the Frisco 72-Inch Cat Tree or the Go Pet Club Multi-Level Cat Tower, both sturdy options with scratching posts and platforms.
Cats love high places because they help them feel safe and entertained.
Place the tree near a window so they can watch outside. Regular use helps reduce boredom and keeps cats active indoors. It’s a one-time purchase that adds fun and comfort to their routine.
15. Health Kit
A basic health kit keeps you prepared for minor issues and emergencies. Stock it with essentials like flea combs, styptic powder, and pet-safe wipes.
You can also include your vet’s contact information, a small towel, and a thermometer.
Pre-made kits such as the RC Pet Products Pet First Aid Kit are convenient options. Keep it stored in an easy-to-reach spot.
Having supplies ready helps you handle small problems quickly and gives peace of mind between vet visits.
How to Choose Quality Cat Supplies?
When choosing quality cat supplies, focus on durability, safety, and comfort. Sturdy materials like stainless steel, solid wood, and heavy-duty plastic last longer and are safer for daily use.
Always check that toys, bowls, and beds have smooth edges and no loose parts that could cause injury.
Look for breathable fabrics for bedding and non-toxic finishes on furniture. Brands like Frisco, Petmate, Catit, and SmartCat are known for reliable quality and smart design.
Before buying, ask: Is it safe, easy to clean, durable, comfortable, and the right size for your cat?
Checking these details ensures your cat’s supplies are safe, durable, and worthwhile, keeping your cat happy and saving you money.
Tips for First-Time Cat Owners
Bringing home a cat for the first time can be exciting and a little overwhelming. These simple tips will help you build a happy routine and a strong bond with your new companion.
- Start with a routine: Feed, play, and groom your cat around the same time each day to build trust and comfort.
- Choose the right food: Stick to vet-recommended, high-quality food suited for your cat’s age and health.
- Create playtime moments: Use wand toys or balls to keep your cat active and engaged daily.
- Be gentle with grooming: Brush regularly to reduce shedding and prevent mats, especially for long-haired cats.
- Give space when needed: Let your cat learn at their own pace, don’t force interaction.
- Stay patient and calm: Cats need time to adjust, so consistency and kindness go a long way.
Budgeting for Your Cat’s Basic Needs
Caring for a cat means planning for regular expenses to keep them healthy and happy. On average, expect to spend around $50–$100 per month, adding up to $600–$1,200 per year.
The main costs include food ($20–$40), litter ($10–$20), toys and treats ($10–$15), and annual vet visits ($150–$300).
Grooming supplies or flea treatments may add another $50–$100 each year. To save money, buy in bulk, use discounts, and choose durable, quality items.
Setting aside a small emergency fund for vet bills can also prevent financial stress.
With smart budgeting, you can give your cat everything they need without overspending, ensuring they stay comfortable and well cared for all year.
Common Mistakes when Buying Cat Essentials
Even the most caring cat owners can make simple mistakes when shopping for supplies. Here are a few common ones and how to fix them.
- Buying cheap toys: Low-quality toys can break easily or pose choking hazards. Choose sturdy, safe options made from non-toxic materials.
- Skipping the carrier: Without a proper carrier, vet visits or travel can be stressful and unsafe. Invest in a secure, well-ventilated one.
- Choosing the wrong litter: Strongly scented or rough litter can bother your cat. Start with unscented, soft-textured options.
- Overlooking scratching posts: Cats will find other places, like your couch, to scratch. Get a tall, stable post covered in sisal.
- Ignoring size and comfort: Small beds or bowls can make cats uneasy. Always pick supplies that fit your cat’s size and habits.
Conclusion
Caring for a cat begins with having the right essentials that keep them healthy, safe, and happy.
From sturdy bowls and cozy beds to quality food and interactive toys, every item plays a role in building your cat’s comfort and confidence at home.
Taking the time to choose well-made, reliable products not only simplifies your daily routine but also strengthens the bond you share with your pet.
Cats do best in spaces that fit their needs, and your preparation makes that happen.
With a little patience and consistency, you’ll enjoy the joy, companionship, and calm that come with being a cat owner.
Share your favorite cat essentials or tips in the comments, I’d love to hear what works best for you and your feline friend.
