Since childhood, you’ve known you’re a cat person. You’ve always admired cats for their aloof independence and ability to snooze all day without feeling guilty. The moment has finally come for you to bring your first cat home and become a cat owner for the first time.
Of course, you’re ecstatic, but you’re probably also a bit scared about having a cat for the first time.
This is our checklist of things to consider before adopting a cat, including our top 10 pieces of advise for first-time cat owners to ensure smooth transition for both of you!
#1. Create a safe haven for your new feline companion.
If possible, arrange for your new cat to have a secure area to hang out while he becomes familiar with you and his new surroundings before bringing him home from the shelter. Cat condos or tiny rooms like as an additional bedroom or laundry room may be used for this purpose. Set up his food, drink, toys, bed, and litter box in an enclosed space that is warm and welcoming for him. Having a secure, peaceful spot to retreat to would be much appreciated by him, particularly if you have children or other pets in your house.
#2. Secondly, they shed a lot.
Cats shed an incredible amount, and if you’re a first-time cat owner who has never had a cat before, you’ll be surprised at how much they shed. Everywhere you look, you’ll see hair. Have a brush and comb ready in advance so that you can groom your new furry friend on a consistent basis. Hairballs will be prevented from forming if your cat grooms himself too, and it will reduce the amount of hair in your home.
#3. Prepare to clean the litter box on a daily basis.
It is one of the most significant benefits of owning a cat over owning a dog because they do not need walking.
Litter boxes, on the other hand, must be cleaned on a regular basis, and in some cases twice a day. Keeping your new cat’s litter box clean is really essential because if it’s unclean, he may decide to use a different litter box, which is something no one wants! Clumping cat litter is a good choice because it makes it easier to remove all of the waste from the box every day without having to completely replace the litter. However, there is more to the debate between clumping and non-clumping litter than that.
#4. 4. Cats are particular about where they go to the bathroom.
Expect your cat to reject any litter box or cat litter that isn’t specifically designed for him. While most cats are very undemanding creatures, they are quite particular about where they go to the potty. Make sure there is at least one litter box per cat in the home, and preferably two or three more. In addition, there should be at least one litter box on each level of the house for cats. Place them in a peaceful, out-of-the-way spot and be prepared to shift them if the situation calls for it. Depending on the cat, a large litter box may be preferred, whilst some prefer an enclosed environment that feels secure. Some people will not use any scented litter at all. While you can expect to do some experimentation to discover out what your new kitten likes.
#5. 5. Be aware of what is in your cat’s food.
As a first-time cat owner, one of the most essential choices you’ll make is what food to feed your new feline companion. Don’t make judgments based on the adorable kittens that appear in cat food ads. Read the ingredient lists carefully and steer clear of items that include inexpensive fillers such as animal by-products, corn, and beef meal, among others. Also, stay away from products that include preservatives like as ethoxyquin, BHA, and BHT, since they might be dangerous to your cat’s health and well-being. On the internet, you may obtain a great deal of specific information on cat foods. Before giving any food to your cat, consult with your veterinarian to confirm that it satisfies your cat’s specific nutritional requirements and that you are aware of the foods that cats are not permitted to consume. Also, be certain that the cat food you choose complies with the American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) rules.
#6. Cats are a lot of fun to be around.
Cats are incredibly energetic and entertaining animals. If you don’t supply these little kiddos with toys, they will find other ways to entertain themselves with… such as your shoelaces, your curtains, or anything else captures their attention is prohibited. Make sure to indulge your new cat a little by providing him with some toys and small mice to chase about the living room. In fact, bringing out a few entertaining cat toys is a wonderful approach to help your new cat connect with you.
#7. Select a veterinarian and a pet sitter before you require their services.
Don’t wait until your cat becomes ill before beginning your search for a competent veterinarian. As soon as you know you’re going to adopt a cat, start asking around for recommendations from individuals in your social circle who already have cats. Pet sitters are subject to the same rules. You want to avoid being called out of town suddenly as a first-time cat owner, since the last thing you want is to have to pay someone you don’t know to come and take care of your new kitten. Before making a final pick, read internet reviews and attempt to meet with each of the candidates in person if possible.
#8. Cats like hiding in places.
Cats like hiding in places. If your new cat decides to hide under the bed or in a closet for the first couple of days, don’t take it personally. Just make sure the litter box, food, and water are all within easy reach of the cat. Try sitting someplace near by and speaking to him in a soothing way to see if he would approach you on his own initiative.. Giving out delicious treats wouldn’t go amiss, would it? In the event that your cat does not come out to feed or use the litter box after a day or two, you should seek advice from a veterinarian online for some guidance. They can provide guidance without requiring you to transport your new cat to the veterinarian’s office, which might further traumatize him.
#9. Have Fun with Your Cat
Many people believe that cats do not need playing or socializing, but this is not the case. Make it a point to spend time with your cat every day, either cuddling or playing with toys. Cats need to be active and involved in order to maintain their mental and physical wellness.
#10. Make sure to have a scratching post.
Cats have an insatiable need to scratch. They will scratch everything accessible, including your carpet and furniture. A scratching post provides a much better venue for them to fulfill their needs. Make sure it’s tall enough for your cat to stretch out on, or choose one that serves as a spot for your cat to hang out.
#11. Cats are capable of being trained…
Those who argue that cats cannot be taught new things should not be taken into consideration. If you give a cat some positive reinforcement, you will be shocked at how much he can learn. If you give him food and cuddles everytime he performs something you want him to be proud of him will rapidly learn what you’re trying to teach him. However, if he seems to be behaving inappropriately, like as urinating on the bed, contact your veterinarian. In many cases, this kind of conduct might be a symptom of an undiscovered medical condition.
