Preparation Checklist for First-Time Cat Owners

ImmunityQ&AMeongsiljang Veterinary Advisory Board

This guide is designed for first-time cat owners, covering everything you need to know: essential supplies, creating a safe environment, choosing the right food, health care, and helping your new feline friend adjust to their new home.

First-Time Cat Ownership: What to Prepare First?

A kitten sitting comfortably in a prepared room

Preparing to welcome a cat involves securing a safe living space, gathering essential supplies, and establishing a healthcare plan. Because cats are highly sensitive to new environments, thorough preparation before bringing your new companion home is crucial. Setting up a quiet, secure room where your cat can hide and feel safe from day one will significantly ease their adjustment period. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything first-time cat owners need to know—from must-have supplies and health care routines to supporting your cat through their acclimation period.

Essential Supplies Checklist

Litter box and litter: As a general rule, provide one more litter box than the number of cats you have. Bentonite or tofu-based litter are good, hassle-free options for first-time cat owners.

Food and water bowls: Stainless steel or ceramic materials are the most hygienic. Place the water bowl away from the food bowl.

Scratching post: Scratching is a natural instinct for cats. Be sure to provide at least one, whether it’s a vertical or horizontal style.

Carrier: A carrier is essential for vet visits and travel. Getting your cat used to it in advance will help reduce stress.

Toys: Wand-style toys satisfy a cat’s hunting instinct, making them great for stress relief.

Creating a Safe Space for Your Cat

When bringing a new cat home, avoid giving it access to the entire house right away. Instead, designate a small room as a “safe space.” Place the litter box, food and water bowls, and a hiding spot in this room. Once your cat feels comfortable and secure, gradually expand its access to other areas. Since cats naturally enjoy high vantage points, providing a cat tree or shelves is a great idea. Setting up a spot where they can look out the window will also help keep them entertained and prevent boredom.

Dangerous Items and Plants for Cats

Lilies are extremely dangerous to cats, as they can cause acute kidney failure. Other plants, such as tulips and poinsettias, are also toxic to cats, so please keep them out of reach if you have them at home. Items like rubber bands, strings, and plastic bags pose a risk of intestinal blockage if swallowed. Onions, garlic, chocolate, and grapes are strictly forbidden for cats. Kittens are naturally curious and may chew on electrical cords, so it’s safer to cover them. If you suspect your cat has been exposed to any toxic substance, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Choosing Food and Feeding Methods

Because cats are obligate carnivores, it’s important to choose a diet high in protein. For kittens under one year of age, feed kitten-specific food, and for adult cats, switch to adult-formulated food. Combining dry and wet food can help increase water intake. Since cats naturally tend to drink less water, offering wet food or using a water fountain can be beneficial. When changing your cat’s food, gradually mix the new food with the old one over a sufficient period to ensure a smooth transition. Sudden dietary changes can put stress on the digestive system.

Neatly prepared wet and dry cat food, along with a water fountain

First Veterinary Visit and Health Care

It’s a good idea to visit a veterinary clinic within a week of bringing your cat home. During the first visit, you can discuss a basic health checkup, deworming, and a vaccination schedule.

Core Vaccinations: Vaccines for feline panleukopenia, herpesvirus, and calicivirus are essential.

Deworming: Both internal and external parasites should be checked and treated.

Spaying/Neutering: The appropriate timing may vary depending on your cat’s individual health status and living environment, so please consult thoroughly with your veterinarian to make the best decision.

Adjustment Period: Getting Used to the New Home

Most cats take about one to two weeks to adjust to a new environment. It’s completely normal for them to hide during the first few days, so don’t force them out. As long as they’re eating, drinking, and using the litter box properly, there’s no need to worry. The best approach is to wait for your cat to come to you. Avoid making loud noises or sudden movements, and keep the environment calm and quiet. Using treats to create positive experiences can help speed up the adjustment process.

A kitten hiding in its new home, cautiously peeking out to observe its surroundings.

Go to the Vet Immediately If You See These Symptoms

If your pet hasn’t eaten for more than 24 hours, hasn’t used the litter box at all, is experiencing repeated vomiting and diarrhea, or appears to be breathing rapidly, take them to a veterinarian immediately. Kittens are especially vulnerable because dehydration can progress quickly, making even a single day without food potentially dangerous. Also, be alert if your pet is lethargic and curled up in one spot, as this is another warning sign that requires attention.

Long-Term Care Points to Keep in Mind

Weight Management: Indoor cats are prone to obesity due to their lower activity levels. Maintain a healthy weight by providing measured meals and regular playtime.

Teeth Brushing and Oral Care: Cats can develop gum disease if tartar builds up. It’s beneficial to get them accustomed to brushing their teeth from a young age.

Regular Check-ups: Even if your cat appears healthy, an annual health check-up at the vet is recommended. For mature cats aged seven and older, health changes can occur rapidly, so please consult your veterinarian to determine the appropriate examination schedule.

Reviewed by a veterinarian

Dr. Tony — Punnawat Phongkittirak

Veterinarian

A veterinarian who majored in veterinary medicine at Khon Kaen University, Thailand, and completed the IVSA program at North Carolina State University in the United States. Drawing on clinical experience at animal hospitals, he works in the pet healthcare field and is dedicated to building a digital care environment that connects pet parents with veterinarians.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the most important thing on the first day you bring your new cat home?

Designate a safe room and prepare it in advance with a litter box, food, water, and a hiding spot. On the first day, give your cat plenty of time to explore on its own.

Should I adopt a kitten or an adult cat?

Kittens adapt quickly but require more care, while adult cats allow you to assess their personality beforehand. It's best to choose based on your lifestyle.

Is it okay if my cat keeps hiding?

It’s completely normal for your pet to hide for a few days in a new environment. As long as they’re eating, drinking, and using the litter box or going outside to relieve themselves, there’s no need to worry. Most pets start coming out of their hiding spots within one to two weeks.

Where is the best place to put a cat’s litter box?

A quiet spot with minimal foot traffic is ideal. Place it as far away from the food bowl as possible, and ensure it’s easily accessible for your cat.

How much does it cost to keep a cat each month?

Basic expenses for food, litter, and treats typically range from $40 to $70 per month. It’s also wise to set aside separate funds for routine health care and emergency medical costs.

Primary vs. Secondary Veterinary Hospitals: A Comparison

Comparing Dog Vaccine Types (3-way, 5-way, 7-way): Differences and How to Choose

Pet Insurance Enrollment Timing Comparison: When Is the Most Advantageous Time to Enroll?

Frequently Asked Questions About Feline Hydronephrosis — Key Points Pet Owners Must Know

Frequently Asked Questions About Hematuria in Cats — Key Points Pet Owners Must Know

Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD) FAQ — Key Information for Pet Owners

Frequently Asked Questions About Feline Idiopathic Cystitis — Key Information for Pet Owners

Frequently Asked Questions About Feline Dysuria (Straining to Urinate) — Key Points Every Pet Owner Should Know

Feline Calcium Oxalate Uroliths FAQ — Key Information Pet Owners Must Know

Frequently Asked Questions About Feline Bladder Ultrasound — Key Information Every Pet Owner Should Know

References

[1] Atkinson, T., A Professional's Guide to Feline Behaviour: Understanding, Improving and Resolving Problems, Routledge, 2018

[2] Landsberg, G., Hunthausen, W., Ackerman, L., Behavior Problems of the Dog and Cat, 3rd Edition, Saunders, 2012

[3] Quimby, J. et al., 2021 AAHA/AAFP Feline Life Stage Guidelines, Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, 2021