How to Prepare for Getting a New Cat

Who couldn’t use some extra snuggles and a happy distraction? Cats provide companionship and bring a smile to our faces with their cute and fun-loving antics. 

If you’re thinking of adding a new cat to your social bubble, you may have many questions. What should you do to prepare yourself and your home for your future furry friend?

Where Should I Adopt a Cat?

While you could get a cat from a pet store, your neighbor whose cat just had a litter of kittens, or even Craigslist, there is an even better option; an animal rescue shelter. 

Animal rescue shelters such as our local Puyallup Animal Rescue help homeless or abandoned animals find new forever homes. Adoption fees are minimal and typically cover the cost of vaccinations and spaying/neutering. Some rescue cats are even microchipped. 

Local shelters often have a wide range of cats from which to choose. You are sure to find one that will fit right in with your family!

What do I Need For a Cat?

Adopting a cat, whether as a kitten, teen, adult, or senior, is relatively straightforward, but there are some things you’ll need to acquire in advance. 

Here’s what you’ll need to buy or prepare for the arrival of your new kitty: 

• High-quality cat food and treats (Tip: avoid cheap pet food) 
• A cat litter box, litter scooper, and litter
• A cat collar and ID tag
• Cat toys and possibly catnip
• A cat scratching post
• Food and water dishes
• A cat bed
• A small pet carrier

If you’re on a budget, you may make some of these items yourself or use things you already have. For example, use a box with a blanket inside as a bed or make a toy out of an old paper towel roll with tissue paper stuffed inside.

What do I do Before I Bring a Cat Home?

Now that you have all the kitty cat essentials, it’s time to prep your space for his arrival. 

Look around your house and put away or cover anything you are afraid your kitty might scratch. Since you don’t know your cat’s personality yet, it’s better to error on the side of caution. Look out for potential dangers and close up any small spaces into which a cat might crawl. Do your best to cat-proof your area. 

Don’t forget to decide on a local vet. Read reviews and find a trusted veterinarian in your area. Schedule an appointment for soon after you get your cat. He may be healthy, but a check-up can help put your mind at ease and make sure he is okay.

Tacoma Pet Boarding Services

One more thing you’ll need as a new cat owner is a trustworthy pet boarding service. Pet Ponderosa Resort and Spas offers luxury pet boarding without the luxury price tag. Whenever your schedule takes you away from home for a day or more, your kitty will enjoy a cat-cation at our pet resort. 

Pet Ponderosa has an exclusive cat-only palace full of scratching posts, irresistible perches, and curious hiding places. With our cat-loving staff, your beloved bundle of fur will be in good hands.

Contact us to find out more about our pet boarding and grooming services.