New Cat Essentials: Must-Have Supplies for First-Time Cat Owners

Preparation: Supplies for Your New Cat

Before bringing your new cat home, first-time cat owners should make sure they have these essentials ready:

• Food and water bowls
• Food (Stick to the same brand and type your cat has been eating at the shelter if you can. Gradually transition to your preferred brand if needed.)
• Treats
• Collar with ID tag
• Cat bed
• Cat toys (Interactive wand toys are great for bonding!)
• Cat brush
• Litter box and litter (Use the same type as the shelter at first.)
• Tall, sturdy scratching post

Your Cat’s Environment

Initially, keep your new cat in one room, like a bedroom or living room, to help them settle in. This provides a safe space where they have access to food, water, and a litter box, and it also gives them time to adjust to their new surroundings without feeling overwhelmed.

Make sure to spend time with your cat in this room to help them feel more comfortable. Provide plenty of hiding places for them to retreat to—think cardboard boxes or cozy spots with blankets. Cats appreciate both low and high hiding spots, so consider placing furniture they can climb or crawl into. Let them come out of hiding when they’re ready, and avoid disturbing them while they’re tucked away to give them the privacy they need.

Add a scratching post or cat tree to this room to encourage natural behaviors. You can rub a towel on your cat’s cheeks and then transfer the scent to the scratching post to make it feel familiar and inviting.

Building Trust with Your Cat

Let your cat adjust to their space and take things at their own pace. First-time cat owners shouldn’t force their new feline friends to interact if they’re not ready. Instead, coax them with interactive toys or by staying near their food bowl while they eat. Over time, your cat will begin to associate you with positive experiences, helping to build trust.

Once your cat feels comfortable in their room, you can slowly expand their access to the rest of your home. Some cats may take weeks to feel confident enough to roam freely, so be patient and let them progress at their own speed.

Managing Stress

Your new cat may feel stressed during the transition, and that’s completely normal. Common signs of stress include decreased appetite, hiding, decreased grooming, and lack of interest in affection. This may be their third “home” in a short time, so give them the space and time they need to recover.

Allow your cat to hide and come out when they’re ready. This will help them feel more in control of their environment, which builds confidence and strengthens your bond. When they are ready to interact, make sure all experiences are positive. Offer treats, play with them using a wand toy, or simply spend quiet time near them.

Feline Diet

Stress can affect your cat’s appetite. If they’re not eating, it’s important to ensure they’re still getting enough nutrition. If possible, feed them the same food they had at the shelter at first, and slowly transition them to your preferred food.

Here’s how to transition food gradually:

• Days 1-2: 75% shelter food, 25% new food
• Days 3-4: 50% shelter food, 50% new food
• Days 5-6: 25% shelter food, 75% new food
• Day 7: 100% new food

If your cat isn’t eating or seems to be having digestive issues, contact your vet.

Many cats do well with two meals a day, but some prefer free-feeding. If you choose free-feeding, keep in mind that some cats may overeat, leading to weight gain and health problems. Wet food is generally more satisfying for cats than dry food, so consider offering it regularly.

Cat Litter Box Training

Set up a clean, uncovered litter box for your cat. Cats are fastidious and prefer a fresh, clean environment. Scoop the box daily and clean it completely every two weeks with a mild soap.

If your cat is shy or nervous, they may use the litter box when you’re not around, but be patient and give them time to get used to it. Keep the area clean, and they will quickly adapt.

Cat Toys

Engage your cat with a variety of toys to enrich their environment. Cats enjoy interactive toys like wand toys that simulate hunting behaviors. Play with your cat regularly to strengthen your bond, and never use your hands as toys, as this can encourage biting or scratching.

If your new cat isn’t interested in toys right away, give them time to adjust. Be patient and try different types of toys.

Grooming Tips for First-Time Cat Owners

Even though cats are known for keeping themselves clean, a little grooming help from you can go a long way—especially if you’re a first-time cat owner. Regular grooming not only keeps your cat looking their best but also helps you spot any skin issues, mats, or parasites early. Here are a few things for first-time cat owners to consider:

• 🧼 Brush regularly – Short-haired cats may need weekly brushing, while long-haired breeds often need daily attention.
• ✂️ Trim nails – Most cats need their nails trimmed every 2–4 weeks to prevent overgrowth and snagging.
• 👂 Check ears and eyes – Wipe gently with a damp cloth if you notice buildup.
• 🛁 Skip the baths (usually) – Most cats don’t need regular baths unless they get into something messy or have a medical need.
• 🐾 Start slow and positive – Use treats and praise to make grooming a stress-free experience.

With a bit of patience and the right tools, grooming can be a bonding routine for you and your new feline friend!

Outdoor Enrichment

While outdoor adventures can be risky for cats, there are ways to let your cat enjoy the outdoors safely. Window perches let them watch the world go by, and some cats can even be trained to walk on a harness and leash. Another option is an outdoor enclosure, called a catio, which gives your cat a safe outdoor experience.

Final Thoughts for First-time Cat Owners

Adjusting to a new home can take time, and each cat is different. Be patient, offer plenty of love and space, and watch for signs of stress. If your cat continues to show signs of stress or isn’t improving, don’t hesitate to reach out to your veterinarian or a behaviorist for additional support.

By following this checklist for first-time cat owners, you’ll help your new cat feel safe, comfortable, and loved as they settle into their new home. When you’re ready to adopt, check out our adoptable cats page to find the perfect new addition to your home.

Looking for more information? See what Best Friend’s Animal Society has to say in their New Cat Checklist!