How to Prepare for a New Cat: A Checklist for New Adopters

Preparing for a new cat is an exciting and important task! Proper preparation ensures that your new feline companion feels safe, comfortable, and welcomed in their new home. Here’s a checklist of things to do before bringing your new cat home, to make the transition as smooth as possible:

□ Create a Safe Space

• Designate a Quiet Room: Set up a calm, quiet space where your new cat can retreat. This is especially important for cats that might be nervous or shy.
• Essential Supplies: Include a cozy bed, litter box, food and water bowls, toys, and scratching posts in this room. A scratching post or pad is especially important to help them establish boundaries.
• Safe Environment: Remove any hazards (toxic plants, small objects they might swallow, electrical cords) from the area.

□ Gather Essential Supplies

• Litter Box: Ensure you have a litter box (or more if you have multiple cats), with the appropriate litter for your cat’s preferences (most prefer clumping, unscented litter).
• Food & Water Bowls: Stainless steel or ceramic bowls are great, as they’re easy to clean and safe for cats.
• High-Quality Cat Food: Get the food your new cat has been eating or a recommended diet for their age and health needs.
• Scratching Post & Toys: Cats need to scratch to mark territory and stretch their muscles. Having toys like wand toys, balls, and interactive games will help keep them entertained and mentally stimulated.
• Cat Carrier: A sturdy and comfortable carrier for bringing your cat home and for any future trips to the vet.

□ Cat-Proof Your Home

• Secure Your Windows & Doors: Make sure they can’t escape if you’re opening windows or doors. Cats are often curious and might slip out.
• Hide Toxic Substances: Some plants, such as lilies, are toxic to cats, as are many foods and chemicals. Keep these items out of reach.
• Create Vertical Spaces: Cats love to climb and observe from a high vantage point. If possible, set up a cat tree or shelves for climbing.

□ Prepare Your Family

• Discuss Expectations: Ensure that everyone in your household is on the same page regarding the cat’s care, boundaries, and routines.
• Gentle Introduction: If you have other pets, especially dogs or other cats, introduce them to your new cat slowly and carefully. Consider using a pheromone diffuser to help with the adjustment.

□ Set Up a Routine

• Feeding Schedule: Establish a consistent feeding routine from day one.
• Litter Box Training: Make sure the litter box is easily accessible and clean. Most cats naturally know how to use it, but keeping it pristine is key.
• Playtime and Bonding: Spend time interacting with your cat through play and gentle petting. This helps establish trust and helps them feel safe in their new home.

□ Health and Safety

• Vet Visit: Schedule a vet appointment for a health check-up as soon as possible, even if the cat is already vaccinated or neutered.
• Have emergency vets numbers available and Animal Poison Control | (888) 426-4435 – ASPCA
• The ASPCA animal poison control center (APCC) has a free app that help identify harmful substances for cats. 
• There is also a free app called Pet First Aid to help with medical issues.
• There is also ToxiPets that is a paid app however in an emergency can be life saving. 
• Vaccinations and Microchip: Make sure your cat is up to date on vaccines. Consider microchipping your cat for identification in case they ever get lost.
• Parasite Control: Ask your vet about flea, tick, and worm treatments if your new cat hasn’t been treated recently.

□ Prepare Yourself for Their Needs

• Patience: Understand that your new cat may need time to adjust. Some cats take longer than others to feel comfortable in a new environment.
• Monitor Behavior: Keep an eye on any signs of stress, such as hiding or over-grooming. Over time, your cat should become more comfortable, but some cats are naturally more anxious than others.
• Respect Boundaries: Let your cat come to you when they’re ready. Avoid forcing interaction or overwhelming them with too much attention.

□ Plan for the Long-Term

• Grooming Kit: Make sure you have a grooming kit with brushes, nail clippers, and grooming wipes (especially if you have a long-haired breed).
• Emergency Plan: Know where the nearest emergency vet is, and keep a record of your cat’s health history and vaccinations.
• Mental Stimulation: Make sure your cat has enough enrichment, including toys, cat trees, puzzle feeders, and scratching posts, to keep them engaged and happy.

□ Create a Cat-Friendly Environment

• Hide Personal Belongings: If your cat is the curious type, they may knock over or chew on things they shouldn’t. Keeping breakable items out of reach can save you some headaches.
• Comfy Spots: Cats love lounging in sunny spots or cozy hideaways. Create multiple comfortable spots around the house where your cat can curl up and relax.

This checklist covers the basics of preparing for your new feline friend. The goal is to create an environment where they feel safe, loved, and secure as they settle into their new home.