Items you will need:
These are things that I think are essential equipment in any feline friendly home.
-litterbox (I highly recommend a covered box because it helps keep the smell in. Whew! If you think cat food stinks going in... Also, make sure the entrance is low enough for your little one to easily get into. You may want to buy a small one now and upgrade later.)
-litter (clumping is easier to clean but more expensive. Don't abruptly change brands or types because you don't want to interrupt his litterbox habits. Put some of the old litter in with the new so it smells like the place those sorts of things belong.)
-food and water dishes (try to make sure they're not too tall for a little kitten to eat out of comfortably. For water, there's everything from a simple bowl to a water fountain.)
-food (ask the place/person you're getting the kitten from what they are feeding him. Continue with that if you want or get a new kind and gradually mix in a little more of it and less of the old kind over the course of a week. This will help kitty's body and taste buds adjust.)
-brush (particularly if it's a long haired breed)
-scratching post (a MUST! A little bit of training now will save furniture and frustration later. Consider plastic nail caps such as Soft Claws if you have trouble.)
-nail clippers (kittenhood is the time to get your little friend used to the grooming routines you plan to do for the rest of his life. They are much more accepting now than if you try to introduce it later. I tried to save some money and use people nail clippers. Big mistake! They tended to break the nails rather than cutting through cleanly.)
-toys (each cat likes different toys. Some will only play with feather toys, some will chase a laser pointer. Try a couple to see what yours likes. Remember, cats will often play while you sleep so put the jingly balls away before bed.)
-carrier (it isn't safe for animals to ride unrestrained in a car. If there was an accident, it would be just as bad as a person not wearing a seatbelt.)
-collar (if he's going out, make sure someone can help him find his way home if he strays)
Items you may want:
You can go crazy buying all sorts of things to pamper your lively new buddy. Before you up-end your wallet at the pet store, remember that your love, care, and attention are the things that matter most to your companion.
-cat bed (if your bed will be the cat bed, you may not want to bother)
-leash (if you don't train your cat to it now, he may never get used to it. My guy just falls over and mews pitifully if I put one on him because he thinks something's got him. Taking a cat out for a walk = entertaining. Taking a cat out for a drag = pitiful.)
-good storage boxes (having a place to throw the toys when it comes time to vacuum is convenient. I buy dry cat food in 10 pound bags and I have an airtight container so it won't be stale by the end.)
-treats (very useful for encouraging good behavior)
-spray bottle (very useful for discouraging bad behavior)
-placemat to put under food dishes (helps protect your floor from messy eaters)
Things you need to do:
These are very important for the safety and long term health of every cat.
-kitten-proof the house (try to pick up or lock up all plastic bags, string, chemicals, cleansers, or anything else that might hurt kitty. These things are dangerous. Also consider putting away important things that shouldn't be chewed, the crystal figurine collection, etc. At least until the liveliest part of kittenhood is over.)
-find a good vet in your area (price is a consideration but finding one you are comfortable with is important, too. Ask the vet what schedule they recommend for shots, checkups, and spay or neuter surgery. They can also provide advice about flea and tick solutions if the cat will be going outdoors.)
Have fun and take lots of pictures! They grow up way too fast.
Comments
Smokin'!!! This is a fantastic answer. Great info. If I ran a cat shelter, I would ask you if I could give a copy to anyone who adopts a cat or kitten.
by Jodie44 on August 14th, 2006
Thanks! I've prepared a house for a kitten or two in my day. I wish I could have another little one so this answer is a form of vicarious wish fulfillment :)
by Darkling on August 14th, 2006
I have a question..? Is the carrier necassary for just a couple rides in the car. If i were to hold him would that be fine?
by JamieLynnIsTheBomb on March 28th, 2010