When you decide to adopt a cat, knowing what should I buy before adopting a cat in Australia is crucial to ensure your new companion feels comfortable and loved from day one. This guide provides an overview of all the essential items you’ll need, from cozy beds to playful toys tailored to the unique needs of Australian cat owners. Whether you’re a first-time pet owner or looking to add another feline to your family, preparing with the right supplies will make the transition smoother for everyone involved.
Essential Cat Supplies Checklist
Before your new cat steps paw into your home, you’ll want to have the following essentials ready:
1. Cat Food
- Quality Cat Food: Invest in high-quality cat food that meets the nutritional needs of your cat based on their age, health, and preferences. Australian brands like Black Hawk, Advance, and Hill’s Science Diet offer formulas that cater to different dietary requirements.
- Food and Water Bowls: Choose stable, easy-to-clean bowls. Tip-resistant ceramic or stainless steel options are excellent choices.
2. Litter Box Setup
- Litter Box: A good-sized litter box that accommodates your cat comfortably is a must. Covered boxes can offer privacy, while cats often prefer open boxes.
- Cat Litter: There are various types of cat litter available, such as clumping, silica, and biodegradable options. Paper or wood pellet litter can be a great eco-friendly choice in Australia.
- Litter Scoop and Mat: These help keep the area around the litter box clean.
3. Cat Bed
- Comfortable Bedding: A comfortable cat bed is essential. Cats sleep for about 12 to 16 hours a day, so it’s important to provide a cozy spot for them to rest. Look for a bed that’s easy to wash and that fits your cat’s size and sleeping preferences.
4. Scratching Posts and Pads
- Scratching Posts: Scratching is a natural and necessary cat behaviour. A sturdy scratching post or a cat tree with integrated scratching areas can save your furniture from damage.
- Corrugated Cardboard Scratcher: These are affordable and popular among cats for scratching and lounging.
5. Toys and Entertainment
- Interactive Toys: Toys like laser pointers, feather wands, and mouse toys can keep your cat active and mentally stimulated.
- Puzzle Feeders: These can help slow down their eating while engaging their minds.
6. Grooming Tools
- Brush and Comb: Regular grooming helps reduce shedding and prevent hairballs. Brushes or combs suitable for your cat’s coat type are essential.
- Nail Clippers: Keeping your cat’s nails trimmed is important for their health and safety.
7. Safety and Identification
- Collar and ID Tag: Even if your cat will be an indoor pet, a collar with an ID tag displaying your contact information is crucial for their safety.
- Microchip: Microchipping is a more permanent form of identification and is highly recommended.
8. Travel Carrier
- Secure Carrier: A sturdy, well-ventilated carrier is important for safely transporting your cat to the vet or during any travel.
9. Cat Health Products
- Flea and Tick Prevention: Speak to your vet about the best flea and tick treatments available in Australia, considering the local climate can influence the prevalence of parasites.
10. Cat Insurance
- Health Insurance: Consider getting cat insurance to cover any unexpected veterinary costs. Providers like Pet Insurance Australia offer plans tailored to different needs and budgets.
Setting Up Your Home
Introducing a new cat-proof bench for your home. You will need to set some boundaries within your home, as some areas pose inherent risks. According to the illustration, it is not ideal for your cat to consider spaces like stove tops (which are dangerous) and kitchen benches, where sharp utensils pose a risk and cats may quickly develop bad habits of stealing food scraps, licking inappropriate surfaces, and so on, to be part of their allowable territory.
When your cat climbs up on such a surface, clap your hands or make a loud, rapid noise, and if feasible, make a swift arm-raising gesture straight in the cat’s direction.
- Many new owners are unaware of the myriad potential risks to their cats that lurk in their homes. However, you may follow this simple checklist that covers some of the most common ones to ensure that your new cat’s environment is as safe as possible.
- Remove or store any breakable goods that could endanger your cat if tipped over.
- Because the string can cause strangulation, keep any wand toys carefully kept in a cupboard or out of reach.
- Keep garbage cans out of reach and secure.
- Many plants and flowers are harmful to cats, including lilies, a particularly deadly but popular indoor plant to be wary of. Any lilies on your property should be completely removed before bringing your new cat home.
- Store groceries and other plastic bags safely and out of reach, as they pose a choking risk.
Things to do after bringing your cat
Give Them Space
Allow your cat some time to acclimatize to their new environment. Set up a quiet, safe space where they can retreat and feel secure. This could be a specific room or a secluded area with a bed, litter box, and food.
Slow Introductions
If you have other pets, introduce them to the new cat gradually and under controlled conditions to ensure everyone gets along peacefully.
Monitor Eating and Drinking Habits
Keep an eye on your cat’s intake of food and water. Some cats may experience a decreased appetite or nervousness in new surroundings. Ensure they are eating and drinking sufficiently.
Establish a Routine
Cats benefit from a routine. Try to feed, play, and interact with them at consistent times each day to help them feel more secure.
Interactive Play
Engage your cat with interactive play sessions. Toys that simulate prey, like feather wands or laser pointers, can help expend energy and reduce anxiety.
Observe Behavior
Pay attention to your cat’s behaviour for signs of stress or discomfort, such as hiding, aggressive behaviour, or excessive meowing.
Love and Patience
Finally, provide plenty of love and patience. Some cats may take longer to adjust than others. Positive reinforcement and gentle encouragement will help your cat settle in.
Conclusion
Adopting a cat is a rewarding experience that brings much joy and a special companionship. By preparing with the right supplies, you’re setting the stage for a smooth and joyful introduction of your new pet into your life. Remember, each cat is unique, so adjust these recommendations as you learn more about your new furry friend’s preferences and needs. Welcome to the wonderful world of cat ownership in Australia!
