How to Prepare for Getting a Cat: A Complete Guide for First-Time Cat Owners

So you've decided to get a cat. Congratulations! Cats are amazing companions—they're independent, affectionate (on their own terms), and surprisingly low-maintenance compared to dogs. But before you bring your new feline friend home, there's some preparation involved.

Here's everything you need to know to prepare for getting a cat, whether you're adopting from a shelter, rescuing a stray, or getting a kitten from a breeder.

Before You Bring Them Home: The Essentials

Quick Shopping Tip: We've curated a complete Amazon shopping list with all the cat essentials you'll need. Check it out to shop everything in one place!

1. Litter Box and Litter

This is non-negotiable. You'll need:

One litter box per cat, plus one extra (so if you have one cat, get two boxes)
Unscented, clumping litter (cats have sensitive noses, and scented litter can be off-putting)
A litter scoop for daily cleaning
Placement: Put boxes in quiet, accessible locations—not right next to their food or in high-traffic areas

Pro tip: Start with a basic open litter box. Covered boxes can trap odors and make some cats feel trapped. You can always upgrade later if your cat prefers privacy.

Game-Changer Alert: If you want to make your life significantly easier (and we mean SIGNIFICANTLY), consider investing in a Litter Robot. It's an automatic self-cleaning litter box that's honestly life-changing. No more daily scooping, no more odor buildup, and your cat gets a fresh, clean box every single time. The Litter-Robot 4 automatically separates waste from clean litter, monitors your cat's weight and activity via app, and significantly reduces odors. Yes, it's an investment upfront, but if you can swing it, it's worth every penny. Many cat owners (including us) say it's the best purchase they've ever made for their cats. You'll still want a regular litter box for the transition period, but once your cat is used to the Litter Robot, you'll wonder how you ever lived without it.

2. Food and Water Bowls

Cats are picky about their dishes. Here's what works:

Stainless steel or ceramic bowls (plastic can cause chin acne)
Wide, shallow bowls (cats don't like their whiskers touching the sides)
Separate bowls for food and water (place them apart from each other)
A water fountain (optional but many cats prefer running water)

3. Food

Talk to your vet or the shelter about what food your cat is currently eating. You'll want to:

Start with the same food they're used to (you can transition later if needed)
Choose age-appropriate food (kitten food for kittens, adult food for adults, senior food for seniors)
Consider wet vs. dry (many vets recommend a mix of both)

4. A Safe Space

Cats need a place to retreat when they're overwhelmed. Set up:

A quiet room (like a spare bedroom or bathroom) for the first few days
A hiding spot (a covered cat bed, cardboard box, or cat tree with a cubby)
Comfort items (soft blankets, a bed, maybe a shirt that smells like you)

Home Preparation: Cat-Proofing Your Space

Remove Hazards

Cats are curious, and curiosity can be dangerous. Before bringing your cat home:

Secure or remove toxic plants (lilies, poinsettias, and many others are poisonous)
Hide electrical cords (use cord covers or tuck them away)
Secure windows and balconies (screens should be sturdy, windows should close securely)
Remove small objects that could be swallowed (rubber bands, hair ties, small toys)
Check for small spaces where a cat could get stuck (behind appliances, in vents)

Create Vertical Space

Cats love to climb and observe from above. Give them:

Cat trees or shelves mounted on walls
Window perches so they can watch the world
High surfaces they can jump to (bookshelves, the top of the fridge—yes, really)

Designate Scratching Areas

Cats need to scratch—it's natural behavior. Provide:

Scratching posts (taller than your cat when they stretch)
Scratching pads (horizontal options)
Multiple scratching surfaces in different rooms
Place them near furniture you want to protect (cats scratch near where they sleep and play)

The First Few Days: What to Expect

Day 1: Let Them Hide

Your cat will likely hide when you first bring them home. This is normal. Don't force interaction. Instead:

Set up their safe space with food, water, litter box, and a hiding spot
Let them come to you when they're ready
Speak softly and move slowly
Don't overwhelm them with visitors or loud noises

Days 2-3: Gradual Exploration

As your cat gets more comfortable:

Leave the door open so they can explore when ready
Keep things quiet and predictable
Offer treats and gentle pets when they approach you
Don't force cuddles—let them set the pace

Week 1: Establishing Routine

Cats thrive on routine. Start establishing:

Regular feeding times (cats like predictability)
Play sessions (10-15 minutes, 2-3 times a day)
Quiet time for rest and sleep
Litter box cleaning (scoop daily, full clean weekly)

The Mental Preparation: What You Need to Know

Cats Are Independent (But Still Need You)

Cats aren't dogs. They won't always come when called, they might ignore you sometimes, and they'll definitely have opinions about everything. But they still need:

Daily interaction (even if it's just sitting near you)
Playtime (mental and physical stimulation)
Routine veterinary care (annual checkups, vaccinations, dental care)
Your patience (especially during the adjustment period)

They'll Change Your Routine

Getting a cat means:

Being home more (especially at first, while they adjust)
Cleaning more (litter boxes, shedding, the occasional hairball)
Budgeting for expenses (food, litter, vet visits, toys, scratching posts)
Accepting cat hair on everything (seriously, everything)

It's a Long-Term Commitment

Cats can live 15-20 years. This is a long-term commitment. Make sure you're ready for:

Financial responsibility (food, litter, vet bills, potential emergencies)
Time commitment (daily care, playtime, attention)
Lifestyle changes (traveling requires planning, moving becomes more complex)

The Practical Stuff: Budgeting and Planning

Initial Costs

Plan for:

Adoption fee or purchase price: $50-$500+ depending on where you get your cat
Spay/neuter: Often included in adoption fees, but $200-$500 if not
Initial supplies: $200-$400 (litter boxes, food, bowls, toys, scratching posts, bed)
First vet visit: $100-$300 (checkup, vaccinations, microchip if needed)

Ongoing Costs

Monthly expenses:

Food: $20-$60 depending on quality and whether you feed wet food
Litter: $15-$30
Toys and treats: $10-$20
Pet insurance (optional but recommended): $20-$50/month
Annual vet visits: $200-$500/year

Emergency Fund

Set aside $500-$1000 for unexpected vet bills. Cats are generally healthy, but emergencies happen.

Shop the Complete Cat Essentials List

We've put together a comprehensive Amazon shopping list with all the essentials mentioned in this guide—from litter boxes and food bowls to scratching posts and toys. Everything you need in one convenient place!

The Emotional Preparation: Are You Ready?

Ask Yourself

Do you have time for daily interaction and care?
Can you afford the ongoing costs?
Is your living situation stable (rental agreements, roommates, other pets)?
Are you ready for a 15-20 year commitment?
Do you understand that cats have personalities and might not be what you expect?

Consider Your Lifestyle

Do you travel frequently? You'll need a pet sitter or boarding
Do you work long hours? Cats are more independent than dogs, but still need attention
Do you have other pets? Introductions take time and patience
Do you have kids? Make sure everyone understands how to interact with cats safely

The Final Checklist

Before you bring your cat home, make sure you have:

[ ] Litter box(es) and litter
[ ] Food and water bowls
[ ] Cat food (same brand they're used to)
[ ] Cat bed or soft blankets
[ ] Scratching post(s)
[ ] Toys (variety is good—wands, balls, puzzle toys)
[ ] Cat carrier (for vet visits)
[ ] Grooming supplies (brush, nail clippers)
[ ] Cat tree or vertical space
[ ] Safe hiding spot
[ ] Vet appointment scheduled
[ ] Home cat-proofed
[ ] Emergency vet contact info
[ ] Pet sitter contact (for when you travel)

You're Ready!

Getting a cat is exciting, and preparation makes everything smoother. Remember: every cat is different, and there's a learning curve. Be patient with yourself and your new friend. They'll teach you what they need—you just need to pay attention.

For a detailed step-by-step guide on welcoming your new cat home, check out our Get a Cat event kit. It covers everything from the first day to establishing routines and building trust.

Good luck, and enjoy your new feline friend! 🐱