Essential Cat Supplies: Checklist for New Cat Owners

When it comes to the daily essentials for our feline friends, there's a wide array of items to consider, from cat food and treats to medical supplies and grooming products. For this round of sharing, let's delve into the everyday necessities first:

Firstly, let's talk about the daily essentials:

1. Litter Boxes: There are various types to choose from, including open, enclosed, semienclosed, and topentry designs. The best choice depends on your cat's preferences and your needs. For instance, a doorequipped litter box can help contain odors and prevent litter from spilling out, but some cats might struggle with opening the door!

2. Litter: Cat litter comes in many forms, with popular choices being clay, green tea, and tofubased varieties. While woodbased and crystal litters are less practical, there's a vast array of brands to choose from. Feel free to select the one that suits your cat best.

3. Feeding and Drinking Bowls: These should be sturdy with thick bases and edges to prevent your cat from knocking them over while eating. Materials like ceramic, stainless steel, and plastic are common, with ceramic being a preferred choice for its ease of cleaning and catfriendly design. For busy pet parents, automatic feeders that dispense food on a schedule are also available.

4. Disinfectant: Regularly disinfecting your cat's toys and environment is crucial for maintaining hygiene. While common household disinfectants like 84, Lysol, and Virkon can be too harsh for pets, causing respiratory irritation and weakened immunity, it's best to use petspecific disinfectants like DuPont Disinfectant.

5. Ear Oil: Cats are prone to ear mites and dirt. Regularly check your cat's ears for signs of blackness or dirt. A few drops of ear oil, followed by gentle massaging of the ear, can help your cat shake out the debris. Products like QuickEar and维克耳漂 are commonly used for ear cleaning.

6. Worming: Regular deworming is vital for your cat's health, especially for strays, outdoor cats, and those on a meatbased diet. Common external wormers include Advocate, Frontline Plus, and Revolution, while Bayer and Drontal are popular for internal treatments.

7. Cat Bed (Not Necessary): Cats are quite adaptable and can rest anywhere that provides comfort. If you prefer not to have your cat sleep on your bed, a dedicated cat bed can be a nice addition.

8. Cat Food: Opt for natural cat food made from fresh meats, vegetables, whole grains, and fiber, free from artificial colors and additives. This ensures your cat receives a balanced diet.

9. Cat Canned Food: Cats are obligate carnivores that require highquality protein and fat. Canned food offers higher moisture and nutrient content than dry kibble, making it an excellent supplement to a dry food diet. Brands like Summit and Little Joe are popular choices.

10. Cat Grass: Cats enjoy grooming themselves, which can lead to hairballs. Cat grass, such as wheat, oat, mung bean, and switchgrass, is rich in fiber and can help stimulate your cat's digestive system to expel hairballs. Special kits for growing cat grass are available, or you can use "hairball paste" as an alternative.

11. Scratching Post: This is essential for keeping your furniture safe from your cat's claws. Typically made from sisal rope or cardboard, scratching posts should be tall and spacious, ideally a few inches longer than your cat's body length, and made of wood for durability.

12. Cat Toys: Toys like fishing rods, balls, plush mice, and tunnels keep your cat entertained and can help correct bad habits. It's especially beneficial for young kittens to have a variety of toys to prevent destructive behavior.

13. Cat Tree: For those with more space and budget, a cat tree combines a bed, scratching post, and toys into one large play area. However, they can be expensive and take up a lot of room.

14. Cat Brush: Cats love to be brushed, especially during shedding seasons. A good brush can improve circulation, make their fur shine, and remove loose fur, reducing the risk of hairballs.

15. Cat Nail Clippers: Sharp claws can be dangerous and damaging. Regularly trimming your cat's nails can prevent injuries and protect your furniture. If your cat doesn't hunt, nail trimming can be a simple routine.

16. Cat Shampoo: Cats are clean animals, spending hours grooming themselves. Bathing them too frequently can lead to skin issues. Longhaired cats typically need a bath every two months, while shorthaired cats can go up to four months or even six months between baths.

17. Pet Transportation Tools: For vet visits, vaccinations, or other outings, having petspecific transportation tools like carriers or airline crates is essential. A carrier is often more practical than a bag, and some pet owners opt for a pet stroller for added convenience.

By focusing on these essential items, you can ensure a happy and healthy life for your feline companion.