Getting Kitted Out for a Cat
When you are getting a kitten or an older cat for the first time there are a few basic things that you need to make sure you get in preparation for your new feline friend’s arrival.
Bowls and Dishes
Food and food related items such as water bowls and food bowls are essential. There is an amazing variety of bowls out there from the cheap and cheerful plastic variety to the more up market pottery types. You can get them personalised or just go for plain and simple practicality with a stainless steel bowl. My recommendation is the latter with a rubber base to prevent slipping.
Litter Tray
If you want to avoid accidents then a litter tray and good quality cat litter is essential. Cats are extremely fussy about their litter trays and can become very anti-social if you don’t get it right. Kittens need only a small litter tray but with adult cats make sure you get one with plenty of room. Cats are private creatures and you can even buy fully enclosed litter trays – their own personal port-a-loo!
Brush
All cats whether long haired or short haired need to be groomed regularly. Choose a brush that is recommended either for the breed or for the length of your cat’s hair. I’ve always found the brushes with thin wire bristles are the most effective at removing cat hair and Tikka, my cat , loves all the fuss.
Toys
Cats can become destructive if they get bored so provide plenty of entertainment or your new settee might just get it!
Scratching Post
Another essential if you want to safeguard your furniture is a scratching post. Cats instinctively need to scratch and stretch so if you don’t provide a place for them to do you’ve only got yourself to blame when they start sharpening their claws on your chaise longue.
Cat Carrier
If you need to take your cat to the vets or if your moving house you’ll need to contain the cat in a cat carrier. These come in a mind boggling range of varieties. My tip would be to buy one that has a solid base and is easy to clean. Cat’s hate travelling and despise the vets so they will often soil their cat carrier to vent their fury!