Essentials For Your Cat

cat_siamese_sitting Sometimes it seems like cats need more stuff than the kids! They move right in and take over our bed, grab our loose stuff and hide it under the beds and dressers—what will they think of next! High quality, safe equipment can mean a big difference in the care of your cat. Check it out:

Litterbox and litter

Litterboxes may be hooded or open, a simple box or a high-tech automatic style. There are many different kinds of litter available, ranging from soft clay clumping, to flushable. Cats develop preferences so choose the type she is already using, at least initially. The rule of thumb is to have one litterbox per cat, plus one extra. Place the litterbox in a quiet, low-traffic area, and show Kitty where it is when you bring her home. See our section on litter boxes for more information.

Collar and identification tag

Make sure to purchase a safety collar. These are also called “breakaway”; if your cat gets the collar caught it will break open rather than inflict harm. The tag should have your phone number on it. Many people also have their cat microchipped for identification. See our article on microchipping to learn more about this. The microchip is implanted at the veterinary hospital or shelter under the skin over the shoulder area, If kitty becomes lost, the humane societies and veterinary hospitals have special readers that can get an ID number from the chip so that you can be phoned. Some people train their cats to walk on the leash. In this case, buy a well-fitted harness so that she cannot slip the collar while walking and to prevent pressure on her sensitive neck.

Cardboard carriers are the spare tire of the carrier world; they’ll last the short trip home, but then you need something better. Hard-sided, soft-sided—there are many options available. If you plan on flying with kitty, however, make sure to purchase a carrier that is labeled “airline approved” so it will fit beneath your seat. If kitty does not appreciate carriers, purchase one with breakaway walls so you can take it apart around the cat rather than reach in to remove her.

Food and water dishes

You want something that is easy to clean, and difficult to tip over. Ceramic, earthenware, glass, and metal are the sturdiest. Plastic dishes may be the source of contact allergy in some cats—it might be the dyes or the plastic itself that is the problem. A waterproof mat to place the dishes on will help to protect your floor from spills. Many pet stores sell these with pretty cat-art designs on them, and they are made of easy-to-wipe-up plastic.

Scratching post

Most cats prefer to wrap their claws around rough textures such as sisal carpet or corrugated cardboard. Scratching posts are available in vertical, horizontal, and angled styles and it is worthwhile having several styles to choose from, so you can see which kitty prefers. In addition, a sprinkling of catnip will help stir up interest. Visit www.purrfectpost.com for more about scratching prevention and posts.

Grooming supplies

Brushes, combs (the style depends on your cat’s coat), nail clippers, a toothbrush and cat-safe toothpaste are all important. A flea comb is also great to have around. Even if there are no fleas, it is a good grooming tool to remove dead hairs. Nail trimmers, a nail file, and a set of pediatric human toenail clippers well suited for young kittens.

Toys

While a balled-up piece of paper may work for some cats, others enjoy chasing laser beams or feathers dangling off fishing poles. Catnip-filled “mice” and balls with bells are also fun. Just be sure to store all strings out of Kitty’s reach when you are not actively playing with them, as they may present a serious choking hazard.

From personal experience, I can tell you Kitty will make her bed wherever she wants, usually on yours. However, it is important to have a snuggly space designated just for her. Ideally, select one that has a removable washable cover. This will allow you to clear out the hairs she leaves behind. There are versions that will sit on beds, couches or the floor, and some that you can hook onto window frames so she can survey her territory and watch the birds.

Climbers

Condos and climbers give Kitty a private place to go, and provide exercise—even claw sharpening opportunities.

Your choice of equipment should be made in consultation with a knowledgeable pet store representative, the breeder, or your veterinary staff (technicians are a wonderful source of information about general cat care). There are so many items to choose from! It can seem a little overwhelming. You need not spend a lot on these items. Simple functional items are all that is needed.

Happy shopping!

Disclaimer: This website is not intended to replace professional consultation, diagnosis, or treatment by a licensed veterinarian. If you require any veterinary related advice, contact your veterinarian promptly. Information at CatHealth.com is exclusively of a general reference nature. Do not disregard veterinary advice or delay treatment as a result of accessing information at this site.