What to Look for in a New Cat Owner

The experience of caring for a cat can be a life-changing one. Here are some helpful tips to help you take the first step in your cat-parenting adventure.

Why Own a Cat

Cats will bring color, comfort and cuteness to your life. Here are some reasons why a cat makes a great pet.

• Pet ownership teaches kids patience, responsibility and empathy. A pet is a member of the family and requires attention, affection, and care.
• Cats require less maintenance than other pets. They are independent, but social creatures. They can be left alone at home, while you're working, and they don't need long walks.
• Cats don't require a lot of room to flourish. Your fluffy ball will love a little corner in your room that it can call its own. Your home must be made cat-proof, as it will need to explore your other areas.
• The low frequency of the purr of a kitten is known to heal the human body. The sound and vibrations can reduce blood pressure and relieve pain. The stress level can be reduced by petting or watching a cat play on its own. It's like watching cat videos, but in real-time. Laughter is, as they say the best medicine.
• A kitty is your own personal pest control system, but without any of the side effects. They are fast and agile, like a predator, and hunt rats, insects and other rodents early in the morning or late at night. Congratulations if you are getting barn cats to protect your farm.

Are you ready for adoption? Prepare yourself for adoption.

Prepare Your Home for a Cat

The curious nature of cats will lead them to explore the smallest corners and crevices in your home. Follow these tips to make your home cat-friendly.

Follow your pet rules

Check local pet laws and guidelines before bringing home a kitten. Learn about laws governing outdoor restrictions, leashing and noise (or nuisance) laws. You don't want to fall for a cat, only to discover that your apartment complex does not allow pets.

In some places, cats must be microchipped and vaccinated. Also, consider spaying or neutering. You'll need to prepare for these costs if you want to comply.

Prioritize safety

A kitty is like a child who can leap very high. Seal windows and exits, especially those on upper floors. Avoid suffocation and strangulation by storing away hazardous items such as plastic bags or window blind strings.

Also, some medicines and plants can be poisonous. Candles and stovetops are also dangerous. If you have a cat, it's a good idea to make it a routine to check around and in your car before turning on the power.

Hide fragile items such as the expensive silk blouses or crystal vases where your claw monster cannot reach them.

Create a cat-exclusive zone

Find the cat a cozy, inviting place to call home. You'll need to place the cat's food and water dish, bed, litterbox, and toys in this area. This is where the tiny furry monarch will claim its kingdom and leave its scent.

Invest in good cat gear

You will need a soft-sided carrier to take your whiskered friend home. Put a blanket and stuffed toy in the carrier to make it as comfortable as possible. Pet carriers are necessary for taking your pet on an airplane or to the vet.

The cat needs some basic items like a tag for identification. You can also add a bell since cats are silent stalkers. Many kittens have been helped by bells when they are lost or stuck.

Select a shallow metal or ceramic feed dish instead of a plastic one. Plastic bowls are prone to scratches, can harbor bacteria over time and cause food contamination.

It is a must to have a kitty box, and it's even better to have two. It's just like buying a home. It's like buying a house. Two is better because your pet has more options and can mark more territory. Purchase a size large enough to allow little whiskers the freedom to turn, scratch, and adjust without causing a mess. Place one in a cat-exclusive area and the second in your living room, where you cat is most likely to be.

Avoid clay litter, as it will track all over your flooring. Fine, natural litter is the best choice since strongly scented litters can irritate a cat's sensitive nose. You can also find litters that have deodorizers included (such as those containing baking soda).

Do not forget to purchase a litter shovel, as well as a deodorizer. You will need to clean your cat's litter box every week and scoop the litter up daily.

The next step is the bed for your furball. You can choose from a wide variety of stylish and comfortable cat beds. It is best to choose a bed with a washable cover so that you can maintain it easily and your cat will be comfortable. It should be large enough for your cat to stretch out without falling over.

To satisfy your cat, you'll need to provide him with high-quality window perches, and climbers. Select toys that are sturdy and won't hurt your cat if they fall. If the toy is damaged, your cat will not play with it again. Perches can be placed on windows so that your pet can relax, watch birds, and enjoy the warmth.

The initial investment and legwork are well worth it. Remember that your house is no longer yours alone; your cat also owns it.

Now that it's here, what now?

As a new cat owner, you have certain responsibilities.

The First Few Days

You shouldn't expect your cat to be bossy when it first arrives at your house. You'll have to help your cat acclimate gradually. Most cats are shy in a new setting. It can take anywhere from a couple of days to several weeks (or even months for some cats) before they feel comfortable in the new environment. Don't rush the process. Give yourself time.

Slowly approach the cat and observe its reactions. Introduce your scent by letting them smell your hand. Start by touching their faces and heads. Kittens in particular need to be touched a lot. If it is hiding, you can use treats as bribes.

Try to boost the confidence of your cat over time by using scent soakers or items that they can rub on. You can also buy them toys that they can call their own, such as DIY catnip socks.

Feeding

Wet food is best for your pet. Learn what your shelter provided for your cat and gradually transition to wet foods over time. Raw food can be added to your cat's meals. Dry food should only be given as a treat.

Free-feeding your cat is a common mistake made by cat owners. You can avoid this habit and the resulting behavior problems by setting up a daily schedule with 2 to 3 small meals. Be firm about the schedule and don't cave into meowing, no matter how cute or persistent.

You may want to consider a Cat Fountain that provides fresher and cleaner water. Your pet will no longer drink from the toilet bowl if you have a cat fountain.

Hygiene

It's important to give your cat its first bath. It's important to remove fleas first, especially if your cat was adopted from another country.

Contrary to popular opinion, cats do not fear water. It's just that they are uncomfortable, so try to make the first bath for your cat as relaxing as possible. You won't have to bathe the cat again after this (remember, they self-groom?). You won't need to bathe your cat after this (remember self-grooming?)

Regular nail trimming and brushing are recommended. Regular brushing is necessary for cats with long hair to maintain a matte-free coat. Trim the tips of their nails when they are relaxed and sleeping.

Vet Visits

A first visit to the veterinarian is required to determine your cat's overall health. The norm is to visit the vet annually after that. Consider getting your cat insured while it is still young if you are worried about costs.

Playtime

Cats are low-maintenance, but playtime with your cat can be a great way to strengthen your relationship and help your cat develop.

As they are born hunters, cats need lots of stimulation. Kittens have a lot of energy. You should provide your cat with a variety of toys to keep them entertained, whether it is a feather on the end of a stick, cardboard, or string.

When cats are left alone, interactive toys such as our wooden whack-a-mole will provide hours of entertainment. Before bedtime is a great time to bond with your cat. You'll be happy to see your cat sleep through the night after all these fun activities.

Each cat is unique

Learn about your cat's personality and what it enjoys. Try different things and start slowly.

Love and patience are the best things you can do for your furry baby. It's normal to have to give up some of your desires to accommodate the baby. You'll be amazed at how much you will love your adorable bundle of joy if you embrace your new role.