A cat or kitten is on their way. Getting your home ready with the right equipment is the best thing you can do for their happiness and well-being.
1. The Litter Box — Location Matters as Much as the Product
Position it somewhere quiet, never next to the food bowl. Have at least one more box than the number of cats. Avoid silica litter, which can be toxic. Clumping litter is generally the easiest to maintain.
2. Quality Food
Combine dry and wet food, several times a day — especially for kittens with smaller stomachs. Interactive bowls slow down eating and provide mental stimulation.
3. Multiple Water Points
Cats drink little spontaneously. Place water in several spots around the home, away from the litter box. A filtered water fountain encourages hydration.
4. A Cat Tree and Vertical Spaces
Cats need to climb and observe. A cat tree well-positioned near a window satisfies this fundamental instinct.
5. Approved Scratching Surfaces
Both horizontal and vertical scratching posts let your cat maintain their claws and mark their territory — better that than your sofa.
6. Varied, Rotating Toys
Fishing rods, toy mice, feather toys… rotate them to maintain interest. Put toys away between sessions to preserve the novelty.
7. A Rigid Carrier for the Vet
A soft bag may work day-to-day, but for vet visits a rigid carrier is safer and easier to handle.
8. Securing the Home
Toxic plants, chemicals, tight spaces: do a walk-through of your flat with curious cat eyes before their arrival.
9. Health Insurance
A good pet insurance policy can cover unexpected vet costs, which are often high. Compare options before adopting.
10. Time and Patience
Acclimatisation can take several weeks. Let your cat set their own pace for exploring and warming up to you.
