07 Aug Accessories Every Cat Owner Should Have
Thinking about adopting or buying a cat? Congratulations! Cats are wonderful companion animals and are sure to make your life that little bit sweeter. Before bringing your new furry friend home, you should familiarize yourself with the behaviour and mannerisms of a cat, as well as the basic accessories you will require to keep your new friend comfortable in their forever home.
Here Is Everything You Need Before Bringing a Cat Home:
1. Pet Crate
A pet crate is primarily used to carry your cat from one place to the next, whether your journey is to and from a vet or inter-state pet travel. Before purchasing a pet crate, make sure it is an IATA-approved crate. Such a crate has a strong fibreglass construction, meaning your pet will not be able to claw their way out of there and be safe for the length of a journey. Most road safety laws require pets to be restrained when in a vehicle, meaning the crate will keep you out of legal trouble and keep your pet safe on every journey.
2. Food/Water Bowls
Food and water are essentials for life, so you should arrange for the utensils you will serve your pet on. If you are bringing home a kitten, opt for a shallow set of bowls to make it easier for them to reach. Keep the food and water bowls clean to avoid any potential infections and pay attention to the material of the bowl; non-tip stainless steel bowls are better than plastic ones as they lower the risk of rashes from bowls. If you’re considering a ceramic bowl, make sure to check if its glaze is lead-free, else it isn’t safe.
3. Cat Food
Cat food comes in several variants; there are dry foods, wet foods, and a plethora of flavours to choose from. If you are unsure about your new cat’s diet, you can head to your vet and consult them during your basic check-up. A diet is prescribed based on factors like age and prior feeding patterns, so consult your vet and decide on the diet and supplements before implementing any new diet.
4. Litter Box
Unlike their canine companions, cats don’t need to leave the house to relieve themselves, so you’ll need a litter box/tray. There are a variety of options once more when it comes to a litter box, so choose the one which best suits your house and your pet’s needs. Remember to litter train your kitten from an early age to avoid any accidents inside the house, and make sure the litter box/tray is easily accessible. When choosing the litter itself, you should choose cat litter that is unscented, ultra-light, naturally clumping, effectively controls odour, is dust and clay-free, and cat friendly.
5. Cat Beds
Cats tend to doze off anywhere, but every cat has a favourite spot where they feel comfortable and cosy, and this is where you should try to place their bed to encourage its usage. The bed should be warm, soft, with a breathable and easily washable fabric. The sizing is important, as it should be large enough to accommodate your cat but compact enough to make them feel cosy.
6. Scratching Pads/Post
Cats have an instinctive urge to scratch as they grow. If they lack an outlet, they will end up scratching other things like cushions, pillows, or curtains. To prevent this behaviour, buy a set of scratching pads or posts and attach them at your cat’s height (when standing). If you have more than one cat, you will need more than one post/pad.
7. Identification
It is important to have identification for your pet for safety reasons. The first and permanent proof of ID your pet can have is a pet microchip. Such a chip has an ID number against which your pets’ details are registered and will help reunite you with your cat if it gets lost and is found by an animal rescuer or veterinarian. The second proof of ID is your cat’s collar; while self-explanatory, a collar will help an ordinary person identify your pet if it gets lost or wanders off. You can have information like your pet’s name and your contact details on their collar which will make it easier to reach you in such a scenario.
8. Toys
Most pets love toys and cats are no exception. Small toys like a rattle ball or a fishing pole will indulge their love for jumping and pouncing and stuffed animals will give them something to scratch into. Avoid toys which contain small pieces which can become choking hazards in the future. You can also install elevated platforms as a means of entertainment and exercise as cats love to jump around. Remember, safety takes precedence over entertainment.
9. Absorbing Mats
Absorbent mats are designed to reduce the damage caused by accidental spillages of different natures. These absorbent mats for cats are used to either line the crate for cats during their travel or simply spread on the floor of your home for moisture absorption so that your pet keeps warm and dry.
To conclude, these basic accessories for cats should help you welcome your new feline friend home. Cats are known to be relatively independent animals, so these should cover the immediate requirements of your cat. Remember, you can buy an expensive or inexpensive product, so long as it suits your cat and its needs and doesn’t burn a hole in your pocket while doing so. May your new cat have a healthy and happy life!
