Things to Know Before Getting a Cat

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• To-Do List Before You Bring Your Tabby Home
• Find out More About Your Mouser
• What to Know Before Getting a Cat

So, you are about to become a cat parent? Congrats! The decision is monumental, yet it’s going to transform into a rewarding and life-changing experience. Known for their desire to be independent and spend time solo, felines are also purrfect companions, bringing joy and calmness to your routine. At Cats Mode, we know what it’s like to adopt a pet, trying to make the process smooth for both of you. To help you prepare for a new role, we offer our guide on everything to know before getting a cat.

To-Do List Before You Bring Your Tabby Home

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There are a number of things to consider before getting a cat and things to buy or collect to make sure the feline feels like home.

1. Plan your budget. The costs of care should be planned in advance for the most positive experience for both of you.
2. Shop for your fur baby. A litter box, a bowl, a towel, food, and a bed are the most essential things to prepare in advance.  
3. Prepare a safe space. It doesn’t mean that your pet should own a separate room. Instead, a corner in your home office, a comfy spot next to your bed in a bedroom, or a haven in a bathroom that you rarely use where a kitten can hide, relax, and recharge.
4. Get rid of dangerous temptations. Make your place as cat-friendly as possible. All poisonous plants, electrical cords, or hazardous hiding spots should be out of reach of your meowing explorer.

On the big day, do not make it a family party. Y’all are excited to see a new four-legged member of the family; however, the fluffy kid might be too stressed to see the whole gang trying to pet at the same time.

Find out More About Your Mouser

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The environment that you prepare for your new companion is extremely important. However, it is also crucial to find out more about the kitty that is about to join you in your routine. Here are the top things to know about cats you’re going to welcome in your home:

• Their story. Where does the meower come from? Is it a previous owner, a rescue, or a stray? Find out (if possible) what kind of prior experience little buddy had to be ready for potential behavioral issues.
• The age group. Is it a kitten or an old cat?
• Know your pet’s diet. One of the key things to know before getting a cat is what a tabby likes to eat or should eat. The right food is the guarantee of longevity and quality of life.
• Medical conditions. If possible, check out the feline’s full medical history to be aware of its health status.
• Grooming requirements. Does your mouser have a long or short coat? If it’s long, be ready for regular brushing. Consider the teeth cleaning and nail trimming, too (are they needed?).
• Their favorites. If you use shelter or rescue to find a four-legged companion, ask them about favorite sleeping spots, toys, treats, and whether they like being held or tend to avoid it.

Just like homo sapiens, cats have their unique personalities. Knowing the information above, you’ll bond faster. What’s more important, you won’t find yourself sighing heavily, wondering, “There are so many things I wish I knew before getting a cat, yet I failed” when things go wrong.  

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At our Cats Blog, we talk a lot about how to have the most wonderful bonding experience with le chat and can easily tell what to know about owning a cat. If you make sure to study the following facts, you’ll ensure harmony in your relationship.

• Felines need time to adjust to their new home, just like people. A nervous animal might need a couple of weeks to settle in, while a more confident mouser gets playful and excited in a few hours.
• Don’t let them out for a couple of weeks. Even if they seem to be ready to explore your yard, keep them indoors for some time. Thus, the pet will 100% feel safe and familiar with the new setting.
• Play with them. Felines are the best players! No need to buy extra-expensive stuff – paper bags and cardboard boxes might serve as a great source of entertainment.
• Feline buddies can be early risers. If you don’t want to lie in your bed one day, thinking, “What I wish I knew before getting a kitten is their sleep routine!” be prepared for all scenarios. Felines are usually active at dusk and dawn, but be ready for a paw on your face any time.  
• Mousers like to scratch. In other words, a scratching post is a must if you want to save your sofa from the claw’s attack.
• Cats are generous, so expect some ‘presents’ at times. If your cuter-than-the-cutest predator catches some reps of fauna, don’t scream, and don’t punish them.  
• Felines need to hide and spend time solo. Provide them with a quality spot to hide, relax, and observe their territory. Wooden cat houses are a great example of a quality and safe spot where a fluffy owner can rest from other animals, kids, noise, etc.
• They might need a friend. Or…not. Right now, they have their own territory and are happy about that. Keep an eye on your cat to see if they feel bored to provide them with a companion.
• Don’t leave them home alone for too long. If you go on a holiday for a day, a friend, family member, or neighbor can come and feed the tabby. However, if you’re going to be absent for more than this, a boarding cattery could be the answer.

Now that you know what to do when you get a cat, you can officially join the club of those who adore little paws. Your adventures together are only just beginning!