What to expect with your new cat
A new cat is lots of fun — and lots of work, too! Not sure what you’ll need the first week? The first month? Choose an option below for a sense of what’s ahead.
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Within the first week:
Kittens are bursting with energy and curiosity. Prepare for some nibbles, scratches, a few accidents, and a lot of playtime. For more detail, check out this kitten timeline.
Make sure that your kitten has an ID and microchip that has up-to-date information.
Be sure to get the necessary supplies.
Accidents will happen, so begin litter training as soon as possible.
Kittens are mischievous and can get into everything. Make sure to kitten-proof your home.
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Within the first month:
Your kitten’s energy levels will begin to balance out, but they’ll still want to play a lot. Before you break your budget on toys, try building some of your own.
Schedule a veterinarian visit to ensure your kitten has a clean bill of health.
To help them interact with others, start socializing your kitty with friends and family.
Try getting your kitty used to being groomed and handled — it’s also a fun way to bond!
You’ll want to make sure your kitten respects the boundaries of your home, so this is the best time to start obedience training.
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Within the first six months:
It won’t be long before your kitten reaches full adult size. As their personality comes out more each day, you’ll no doubt see some quirky behavior.
You’ll want to make sure you can tend to your little friend in case they get ill.
At this point, your kitten is ready for their six-month check-up. Be sure to ask your vet about any additional vaccinations they may need.
While at the vet, don’t forget to ask about flea and tick control products.
There may be a time when you and your cat want to go travelling together, so get prepared with this helpful travel checklist.
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Within the first week:
Your cat will need some time to adjust to the new surroundings and people. Be patient, as they may still be struggling with using the litter box, as well as hiding and exploring boundaries.
Even adult cats can get into mischief. Prepare your home for the excitement.
Make sure your cat's ID and microchip details are up to date.
Help your cat feel comfortable by slowly introducing them to other pets and family members.
Your cat may already be potty trained, but it might be a good idea to make sure your cat is litter trained until they’re familiar with the home.
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Within the first month:
As your cat continues to adjust to home life, now is a good time to start reinforcing healthy routines and behaviors for day-to-day life.
To ensure that your new cat is in top shape schedule a veterinarian visit for advice and nutritional recommendations.
While at your vet visit, don’t forget to ask about flea and tick control products.
Your cat may still need other vaccinations or boosters, so check with your vet at the visit.
Your cat will have plenty of energy to burn off, so engage them in several playtime activities.
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Within the first six months:
By now, your cat will be getting used to home life and being a regular part of the family. With all the introductions made, this is a great time to look into new training and experiences to share.
Your new cat’s personality will start to reveal itself. Here’s how to understand their quirky behaviors.
Your cat will no doubt join you for adventures by road, or even air. Get prepared with this cat travel checklist.
Your cat is never too old to start learning something new, so check out this cat training guide as a fun way to bond together.
You should have the basics of cat care down at this point! Check out these cat-friendly life hacks to help simplify your cat parenting experience.
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Within the first week:
Older cats need different care as they age. You'll likely have less energy to deal with, but you'll still want to keep their health top of mind. Learn how to care for their specific needs.
Even older cats can get into mischief, so cat-proof your home for the excitement.
Make sure your cat's ID and microchip details are up to date.
Help lower your cat's anxiety by slowly introducing them to other pets and family members.
Most older cats are already litter trained, but you might want to consider litter training your new cat until they’re familiar with the home.
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Within the first month:
While you’re less likely to be chasing them around, some level of activity can help keep your older cat’s golden years as healthy as possible.
To ensure that your new cat is in shape and to get nutritional recommendations, schedule a veterinarian visit.
During your vet visit, don’t forget to ask about flea and tick control products.
Your cat might not be a kitten anymore, but they might still need other vaccinations or boosters.
Older cats may have slowed down from their kitten days, but there are still plenty of ways you can keep your senior kitty active.
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Within the first six months:
Your new cat’s personality will start to reveal itself, so understand their quirky behaviors to give them the best care.
Older cats still deserve the chance to go on adventures, so prepare with this travel checklist.
Your cat is never too old to start learning something new, so use this helpful cat training guide as a fun way to bond together.
Now by this point, you should have the basics of cat care down. Check out these cat life hacks to simplify your cat parenting experience.
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What things do I need before I adopt a cat?
Make room in your budget for a few necessities, such as:
- Collar
- ID tag
- Food & water bowls
- Litter, scoop & litter box
- Carrier
- Bedding
- Grooming brush
- Nail trimmers
- Toys
- Vet Bills
There will also be smaller things that you’ll need to buy regularly. For example:
- Shampoo
- Flea and tick control products
- Cat food
- Heartworm medications
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How should I prepare my home for my new friend?
Before your cat enters the home, you’ll want to make sure everyone you live with understands how they will welcome their new friend, as well as what their new responsibilities entail.
Remember that kittens have LOTS of energy, and may want to scratch furniture, jump on things and pee outside their litter box.
On the other end, senior cats often have less energy compared to younger cats, so set expectations with children and other family members so you don’t overwhelm your new friend.
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After the first year, how often should my cat see the vet?
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What should I feed my new cat?
Depending on their lifestage, you will want to adjust your cat’s food accordingly.
Kittens (Under Age 1)
Specially formulated for their frisky lifestyle, kitten food is made to fuel the boundless energy of a young cat and support healthy development.
Adult Cats (1-7 Years)
Adult cat foods need the right balance of nutrients – not too much, not too little – to support a cat's everyday nutritional needs.
Older Cats (Age 7+)
As your cat grows older they'll need special support to reduce the risk of kidney issues, mobility problems and other conditions associated with age.
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Can I feed my cat people food?
Contrary to popular belief, regularly feeding your new cat human food can lead to obesity, dental issues, GI upset and finicky eating habits. It’s also important to know which types of foods are toxic to cats before you feed them anything from the dinner table.
Rather than feeding people food as treats, ask your veterinarian about a healthier alternative designed for cats.
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How much will it cost to care for my cat?
No matter what age your cat is, there is definitely a cost to giving them a happy and healthy life. Generally, annual cat care costs average around $809 per year says Pet Coach, and that doesn’t include unexpected trips to the vet or moments of weakness when you see a toy your furry friend “has to have.” Make sure you’re ready to care for your cat physically, emotionally AND financially before you commit to making a forever friend.
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What if my cat scratches up everything?
A cat’s claws are a huge part of their lives, and part of the way they interact with their world. It’s no wonder they find scratching furniture and other objects a way to relieve stress or show anxiety. Another possibility is that your cat is just bored! Invest in a scratching post and remember to be patient.
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Why does my cat keep having accidents or throwing up?
People tend to assume that a cat is being spiteful or intentional when they pee outside of the litter box, but there are less malicious reasons behind these types of behaviors. Peeing on objects around the house is often a sign of anxiety, or even a medical ailment that is hurting your cat.
Cats can also manifest anxiety in the form of digestive problems, so while it is easy to blame the food you’re feeding your cat, one of the worst things you can do to try and improve the problem is switch their food right away.
The important thing to remember is not to lose hope. As your cat starts to get more comfortable at home, and your vet has eliminated any potential health problems, your cat will likely get back to doing their business in the litter box again.
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Where can I find Hill's cat food products?
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