Blog 5 | Becoming A Cat Owner
So you are thinking of becoming the owner of a cat or have just become one. Where do you start? Other than the important issue of, what do we call them, there are many other questions that need answering to ensure you get everything right for your new feline family member.
From food to litter and litter trays, toys to sleep, vets and other pets, there are lots of things to consider. Hopefully our guide can keep it basic and help you do the right thing for your new cat and make taking care of it easy, safe and enjoyable.
Preparation is best. Before bringing your new kitty home try to get as much as you can organised first. Choose a room where it will be safe to settle, ideally a quiet room that is not busy. Shy cats adjusting to a new environment want to feel safe. Allow it to have hiding places where it can take itself off too. These can be under a bed, a placed box, a cat bed or blanket. Let the cat go and be safe while it adjusts.
Your cat will need food. There are many brands of food out there, offering wet and dry as well as kibble treats. This may take time to find what your cat requires so we would suggest reading up on the specific diet requirements for your cats breed. We also recommend visiting myonlinepetstore for a high quality feed and help. Make sure you have enough bowls for food and water per cat. Some cats may prefer a raised bowl to help them eat. Always keep water and food bowls apart and away from any cat litter trays.
Ensure you have a suitable litter and litter tray ready for your cat. It is important to get the right litter tray to allow your cat to go to the toilet and feel relaxed and again safe. Make sure it is large enough for your cat. mogbog offer a small training tray for kittens and a larger tray for adult cats. They are made with high sides to contain the litter but allow your cat to be able to see all around them ensuring they feel safe and not trapped when doing their business. More about our trays can be found in previous blogs. Place the tray in a corner away from any doors, water and feeding areas and beds as they like to be clean. There are also a variety of cat litters from pellets, woodchip, paper and silica. Again this will be a trial to find out which your cat prefers.
Although cats spend about 70% of their time sleeping, they do like to be active and play when they are awake. Find it some suitable toys and a scratch pole or tower to allow it to climb. House cats will need more interaction, (on their own terms mind!) than one that may be let out of the house. If you are going to let your cat out, do not do this until your cat is familiar and comfortable with its home (2-3 weeks) and further surroundings which can take time (4-6 weeks).
Your cat will need somewhere to sleep. This can be a cat bed, blanket or makeshift cardboard box with cushioning. Cats love to sleep and this can be anywhere warm and safe. Find a suitable location and set up a bedding area for them. It can even be elevated to offer more safety and protection in the beginning.
Have a reccy around your house and make sure it is 'cat proof'. Are wires safe? Any plants or substances that you cat can ingest need to be removed. Windows and doors secured. A cat may feel trapped in a new home and want to escape so make sure everyone is understanding of what is required.
When it is time to bring your cat home, a sturdy cat carrier will be necessary to protect your cat in transit and keep them safe. Include a blanket for comfort also.
Overall, caring for a cat is relatively easy but patience is important when owning a one. They are very independent and can be slightly destructive with their claws.
We hope this information gives you an insight in things to consider when becoming a cat owner.
Purrfect regards
