In the first installment of our series for “Tips for Adopting a Cat,” we looked at adoption venues and choosing the right cat. In today’s post, we’ll cover how to prepare your home environment and the necessary supplies to have before bring your new cat home.

Simplifying the adjustment period

Cats are typically very adaptable, but there are still steps to take to ensure your cat has an easy adjustment and does not develop bad behaviors. First, give your new friend ample time to adjust to their new surroundings. In fact, some experts suggest limiting their “welcome area” to a single room for the first few weeks. This is especially important if you have other pets— the smells of other pets can be a lot of for a new pet to process. Spend time with your new cat to help socialize them.

Have the right supplies

In all the excitement of adopting a new pet, it’s easy to forget the important supplies needed to care for them. Consider picking up all supplies before you bring home your new pet. Here’s a list:

Litter and a litter box:

There are many options for litter. Ask your veterinarian or the adoption venue for a recommendation. Litter boxes are available at pet stores and many grocery and drug stores. Food:

Ask the adoption venue what food they have been feeding. After your new cat is settled, talk to your veterinarian about the diet they recommend. Keep in mind that switching foods on a pet can be tough on their digestive system, so be sure to make the transition between diets a slow process. Your veterinarian can explain the best way to do this.

Toys:

Toys are especially important items to have when adopting a kitten. Toys help pets expend energy, serve as an outlet for natural behavior and prevent destructive behavior. Cats can be particular about what type of toy they most enjoy, so consider a small variety to test for their favorite kind.

Scratch post/climbing apparatus:

Investing in a scratching post or climbing tool is a wise decision for protecting furniture and stimulating the cat. Cats like being up high so look for toys that provide room to climb and or hide.

Brush:

A grooming brush is a smart tool to have if you prefer your clothes and furniture fur-free (or at least fur-minimized). Cats are proficient self-groomers, but it’s always a good idea to brush them on a regular basis. Brushing helps maintain their coat in good condition and helps to prevent ingestion of too much fur that can lead to throwing up.

Toothbrush:

New pet owners may not know that pets need daily oral care. Tooth brushing is best, just as it is for humans. Another alternative is treats with dental efficacy such as FELINE GREENIES^® Dental Treats. On your first visit, ask your veterinarian to perform a dental check-up. Remember, it is possible that this is the first time your new pet has received oral care, and making it a habit from the beginning is an important part of being a good pet parent.

In addition to having the right supplies, make sure your home is prepared for a pet. If there are pieces of furniture or rooms that you want protected, teach your new cat boundaries by closing off rooms that are “forbidden,” removing them from off-limits furniture and moving fragile items out of their reach. If you decide to allow the cat on the furniture, consider taking precautions to protect the upholstery; machine-washable slipcovers work well. Leather furniture is easier to clean, but it can be punctured if you don’t keep your cat’s nails trimmed.

Visit the veterinarian

Maintaining a relationship with your veterinarian is vital to your pet’s health. Regular veterinary visits are an essential part of preventive care. You’ll also have someone to rely on in an emergency.

If you don’t currently have a veterinarian, ask the adoption facility for a recommendation. Schedule an appointment soon after the adoption to ensure your pet gets off to a healthy start.

For those of you who have a cat, what advice do you have for new cat owners?

Sources: ASPCA, Petfinder, eHow