First-Time Cat Owner Guide

Everything You Need to Know Before Bringing a Cat Home

Whether you're adopting a playful kitten or giving a rescue cat a forever home, becoming a first-time cat owner is a rewarding experience. Cats are independent, affectionate, and make wonderful companions, but they also have their own needs, habits, and quirks.

This guide covers everything you need to prepare for your new feline friend so you both start off on the right paw.



1. Prepare a Safe and Comfortable Home

Before your cat arrives, create a welcoming space where they can feel secure:

  • Litter box: One box per cat, plus one extra. Place it in a quiet, low-traffic area
  • Food and water bowls: Choose shallow, sturdy dishes. Some cats prefer separate locations for food and water
  • Cat bed or blanket: Offer a soft, quiet place to rest. Cats love warm, enclosed spaces
  • Scratching post or pad: Important for claw health and to protect your furniture
  • Hiding spots: Cats need private spaces to relax. Cardboard boxes or cat caves work well

📝 Tip: Give your cat time to explore at their own pace. Avoid forcing interaction right away.


2. Feeding and Nutrition

Feeding a cat the right diet is key to their health and happiness:

  • Age-appropriate food: Choose kitten, adult, or senior formulas depending on your cat’s life stage
  • Wet vs. dry food: Many cats do well on a mix. Wet food helps with hydration
  • Treats: Use sparingly, especially during training or bonding
  • Fresh water: Always available. Some cats prefer running water from a pet fountain

📝 Avoid giving your cat milk. Most cats are lactose intolerant.


3. Litter Box Setup and Maintenance

Litter box habits are a big part of cat ownership:

  • Choose the right litter: Unscented, clumping litter is often easiest to manage
  • Scoop daily: Cats are clean animals and may stop using a dirty box
  • Wash weekly: Use mild soap and water. Avoid strong disinfectants
  • Avoid sudden changes: Cats can be sensitive to changes in litter type or box location

4. Toys, Enrichment, and Playtime

Cats need mental stimulation and physical activity, even if they’re indoor-only:

  • Toys: Try balls, feather wands, and puzzle feeders to keep them entertained
  • Interactive play: Set aside 10 to 15 minutes daily for active play to build your bond
  • Scratching surfaces: Offer both vertical and horizontal options
  • Cat tree or window perch: Great for climbing and watching the world outside



5. Health, Vet Visits, and Preventative Care

Keeping your cat healthy starts with regular care:

  • Schedule a vet visit early: This includes a wellness check and vaccinations
  • Spay or neuter: Helps reduce health risks and prevents unwanted litters
  • Parasite prevention: Fleas, ticks, and worms can affect indoor cats too
  • Brush regularly: Especially important for long-haired breeds
  • Dental care: Use cat-safe toothpaste or dental treats to support oral health

📝 Keep your vet’s contact info handy, along with an emergency animal hospital number.


6. Cat Behavior Basics

Understanding your cat's behavior helps you avoid common issues:

  • Purring usually means contentment
  • Hissing or swatting means your cat needs space
  • Kneading is a comfort behavior from kittenhood
  • Zoomies are normal bursts of energy

If your cat is scratching furniture, redirect them to a scratching post and reward them when they use it.


7. Identification and Safety

Even indoor cats should have some form of ID:

  • Breakaway collar with ID tag: Include your phone number
  • Microchip: A permanent form of identification in case they get lost
  • Pet insurance: Optional, but it can help cover unexpected medical costs
  • Secure windows and balconies: Indoor cats are safest, but they still love to look outside


Cats are low-maintenance in some ways but deeply sensitive in others. A bit of preparation, patience, and routine goes a long way toward building a strong and loving relationship with your new feline companion.