Cat essentials

Here’s a list of essential items you’ll need to properly care for a cat:

1. Food and Water

• High-Quality Cat Food: Wet or dry food that is age-appropriate (kitten, adult, senior).

• Food Bowls: Preferably stainless steel, ceramic, or glass to prevent bacteria buildup.

• Water Bowls or Fountains: Cats are more likely to drink enough water if it's fresh and flowing, so a water fountain can be a good investment.

  Our favorite water bowl is a 64 oz Insulated stainless steel bowl by Coldest: link.

2. Litter Box and Supplies

• Litter Box: Choose one that is easy to clean, with high sides to prevent litter from spilling. Covered boxes can be helpful for privacy but may not always be preferred by cats.

• Cat Litter: Clumping or non-clumping, silica, or natural options (such as recycled paper or wood pellets).

  Our cats prefer: The Word Best Clumping Unscented Litter; Dr. Elsey's Premium Clumping Cat Litter with Attractant; or SmartCat All Natural Clumping Cat Litter made of grass.

• Litter Scoop: For cleaning the litter box regularly.

• Mat for Litter Box: To catch any litter that may be tracked outside the box.

3. Grooming Tools

• Cat Brush or Comb: To prevent matting, especially for long-haired cats.

  Our preferred combination is: the Coastal Pet Safari Slicker Brush, the FURminator deShedding Tool, and the Shiny Pet Dematting Comb.

• Nail Clippers: To keep your cat's nails trimmed and prevent scratching.

• Flea Comb: If needed, to check for or remove fleas.

• Cat Shampoo: if your cat has specific skin conditions.

• Cat Dry Shampoo: One easy way to reduce allergens on your cat’s fur is by using Purina LiveClear Dry Shampoo.

4. Comfort and Sleeping

• Cat Bed or Blanket: A comfortable place for your cat to sleep.

• Cat Carrier: A secure carrier for trips to the vet, travel, or emergencies. We prefer top-loading plastic carriers such as those made by PetMate.

• Soft Blankets: To keep your cat cozy or to line areas like the bed or carrier.

• Cat Scratching Post or Pad: To help satisfy natural scratching behavior and protect furniture. We prefer: The SmartCat Ultimate Scratching Post, and PetFusion Ultimate Cat Scratcher.

5. Toys and Enrichment

• Interactive Toys: Laser pointers, feather wands, or toys that mimic prey (important for mental stimulation). Fishing rod toys, like the "Go Cat Teaser Cat Catcher" or "Da Bird", are excellent choices. The Peek-A-Prize by SmartCat is a wooden puzzle toy cats love to solve.

• Cat Tree and Shelves: For the house catification. The Refined Feline cat tree is the absolute best.

• Cat Tunnels: For fun hiding games cats love to play.

• Balls or Small Toys: For cats to chase and play with on their own.

• Catnip: To engage and excite your cat, but always monitor their reaction.

• Puzzle Feeders: To provide mental stimulation and slow down eating for fasts. Try the Catit Senses 2.0 Food Tree, a puzzle feeder designed to make cats forage for their food.

6. Health Care

• Flea and Tick Preventative: As recommended by your vet, especially if your cat spends time on a catio.

• Cat Health Supplements: If recommended by your vet (e.g., joint health, skin and coat).

• Medications: Any medications prescribed by your vet.

• Litter Box Cleaner: Non-toxic and effective for cleaning the litter box. We use products by Nature's Miracle, such as Stain and Odor Remover.

• Cat grass: Usually a mix of oat, wheat, barley, or rye grasses, cat grass is easy to grow indoors and provides a safe outlet for your cat’s chewing instincts.

• Calming aids: If you are anticipating a stressful event for your cat, try using Bach Rescue Remedy Pet, a gentle, natural formula designed to help cats cope with stress, anxiety, and fear.

7. Identification and Safety

• Microchip: Highly recommended for permanent identification.

• Collar and ID Tag: Breakaway collars with your contact information in case your cat gets lost. Collars by Kittyrama are our favorite)

• Pet Insurance: To help cover unexpected veterinary expenses.

8. Cleaning Supplies

• Pet-Friendly Cleaner: For cleaning any messes or accidents.

  Cleaning products by Nature’s Miracle provide multiple options and are available in pet stores and online.

• Lint Rollers or Cat Hair Remover: To keep your furniture and clothes clean of fur.

9. Vet and Care Essentials

• Vaccinations and Medical Records: Keep these up to date, especially if your cat is new or you plan to travel.

• Regular Vet Visits: To monitor the cat’s health, administer vaccinations, and prevent or treat any health issues.

By having these essentials, you'll be well-prepared to offer your cat a comfortable, healthy, and enriching life.