So you’re bringing home a cat. Congratulations — your life is about to get significantly better, and your furniture is about to get significantly scratched. Before you panic-buy the entire pet aisle, take a breath. Cats are wonderfully low-maintenance compared to most pets, and the list of things you actually need is shorter than you’d think.
Here’s our honest starter kit: the genuine must-haves, the nice-to-haves you’ll appreciate, and the stuff you can absolutely skip for now.
The Non-Negotiables
1. A litter box (plus litter and a scoop)
This is priority number one — have it set up before your cat walks through the door. The rule of thumb is one box per cat, plus one extra, placed in quiet, accessible spots. An uncovered, generously sized box suits most cats best; covered boxes trap odors that bother sensitive feline noses. Scoop daily. Your nose will thank you, and so will your cat.
2. Food and water bowls
Simple, sturdy, and easy to clean. Wide, shallow dishes are ideal — many cats dislike their whiskers touching the sides of deep bowls (yes, “whisker fatigue” is a real debate, but wide bowls certainly don’t hurt). Wash food bowls daily and refresh water often; many cats prefer running water, so a pet fountain can be a great upgrade later.
3. Quality cat food
Ask the shelter, breeder, or previous owner what your cat has been eating, and start there — sudden food changes upset feline stomachs. If you switch foods, transition gradually over a week or so. Look for a food labeled “complete and balanced” for your cat’s life stage, and don’t hesitate to ask your vet for a recommendation at the first checkup.
4. A sturdy carrier
You’ll need this on day one to bring your cat home, and for every vet visit after. Choose a hard-sided carrier that’s easy to clean and opens from the top as well as the front — your vet will be grateful. Leave it out with a cozy blanket inside so it becomes a safe spot, not a scary signal that a car ride is coming.
5. A scratching post
Scratching isn’t misbehavior — it’s how cats stretch, mark territory, and maintain their claws. A tall, stable post (wobbly ones get ignored) wrapped in sisal, placed near where your cat sleeps or near the sofa they’re eyeing, will save your furniture. The ASPCA’s cat care guide has excellent advice on encouraging good scratching habits from day one.
You’ll Be Glad You Have These
6. A few good toys
You don’t need a toy chest — a wand toy, a few crinkly balls, and a sprinkle of catnip go a long way. Interactive play (ten minutes, twice a day) keeps indoor cats fit and out of mischief. Rotate toys every week or two to keep things exciting.
7. A brush
Even short-haired cats benefit from regular brushing — it reduces hairballs, keeps the coat shiny, and most cats learn to love it. Long-haired cats need it to prevent painful mats. Start gently, keep sessions short, and pair brushing with treats.
8. A cozy bed (that they may ignore)
Every cat owner buys a beautiful bed. Every cat sleeps in the box it came in. Buy the bed anyway — some cats do use them, especially warm, enclosed styles — but don’t spend a fortune. A soft blanket in a sunny spot works just as well for many cats.
9. Healthy treats
Treats are invaluable for training, bonding, and bribing your cat into the carrier. Keep them to a small portion of daily calories, and look for simple ingredients. They’re also perfect for puzzle feeders that engage your cat’s clever brain.
What You Can Skip (For Now)
- Elaborate cat furniture towers — lovely, but start with one good scratching post and see what your cat actually uses before investing.
- Costumes and clothing — most cats find them stressful. A cute photo isn’t worth the misery.
- Every gadget on the shelf — automatic feeders, GPS trackers, and self-cleaning boxes have their place, but none are day-one essentials.
One Last Thing: Book the Vet Visit
The most important “purchase” isn’t a product at all — it’s a checkup. Schedule a vet visit within the first week or two to establish care, discuss vaccinations and spay/neuter timing, and get personalized advice. The Cornell Feline Health Center is a wonderful, trustworthy resource for new cat owners while you wait for that appointment.
That’s really it! Litter box, food, carrier, scratching post, a few toys, and a vet on speed dial — you’re ready. Everything else, you and your cat can figure out together. Welcome to the wonderful world of being owned by a cat. 🐱