Bringing a new feline friend into your home can be a wonderfully rewarding experience but being a responsible cat owner requires careful consideration and preparation.
Here are some top tips to ensure your transition into cat parenthood is a smooth one and promote the well-being of your new furry companion.
Create a Comfortable Environment
Your new cat will likely feel a little nervous and overwhelmed when you first bring it home and will need some time to decompress and get used to its new surroundings. Before bringing your cat home, designate a quiet area in your home for your new cat and create a cosy space with a comfortable bed, food and water bowls, and of course, the all-essential litter tray.
Cats are naturally territorial so will appreciate having their own space, especially when they’re first settling in. Once they feel secure here and show signs of being curious to investigate other areas, you can gradually introduce them to the other parts of your home.
Food and Water
Providing a balanced and nutritious diet is essential for your cat’s health. There are lots of different types of cat food available but not all are made equal so be sure to check ingredients and opt for a brand that meets your cat’s nutritional requirements and suits your budget. If you’re unsure, your vet will be able to advise you on the best type of food for your cat’s age, weight, and specific needs.
Your cat will also need access to fresh water, as proper hydration is vital for their overall wellbeing. Cats can be fussy about drinking water, some won’t drink from a water bowl that is too near their food bowl or litter tray, and others will only drink from a running water source such as a tap, so there may be a period of trial and error while you work out what your new cat prefers!
Healthcare and Insurance
Schedule a visit to the vet shortly after bringing your new cat home for a general check-up. Regular vet visits, routine vaccinations, and preventative care, such as flea and worm treatments are crucial for maintaining your cat’s health.
It’s also important to be proactive and take out specific cat insurance to ensure that your cat is covered should they fall ill or have an accident. This will not only give you peace of mind but can also prevent financial hardship further down the line.
Enrichment and Playtime
In the wild, cats are natural predators and even domestic cats need mental and physical stimulation for their overall wellbeing, and to stop them becoming bored and destructive.
Provide your new cat with a variety of toys and activities to keep them entertained, such as scratching posts, hideaways, laser pens, balls and toy mice. Regular, interactive play sessions help to build a strong bond between you and your cat and can prevent behavioural issues and weight gain in your cat.