New Cat Owner Manual

So, you have decided to bring a new member into your family. Of the feline variety, that is. If you are bringing a new kitten in to your home, congratulations! You are embarking on a wonderful journey with your new pet. So get started on the right foot, by making sure you are fully prepared for your new arrival. Let us do the honor of providing you with a "move in checklist," or "cat owner manual" so to speak.

1. Cat food. Though it may not be the first thing on your mind when you are imagining playing with your roly-poly new kitten, it should be! Stock up on food before you even bring your kitten home. Once you get the little angel home, you won't want to leave him to run to the grocery store and pick up a bag of food. Though it is quite basic, it is also incredibly important to your enjoyment of your kitten's first moments at home. Plan ahead and buy quality food in advance.

2. Litter box and clumping litter. Make sure to get the clumping or scoopable style of litter, as it will make your life so much easier. Grab a "pooper scooper" at the pet store, too. These two inventions will significantly improve your experience in your caring for your pet. It's to your advantage to do this now, rather than learning from experience later.  You will be thankful when you realize that it is not necessary to clean and wash the entire litter box numerous times a week, when you can simply scoop out the soiled litter.

3. Cat toys. Buying toys can be one of the most fun parts about having a pet. They really do get incredible excitement and joy out of playing with new toys. It is fun to see how happy a little rubber toy can make them. Keep in mind that unoccupied cats can get bored, and having plenty of toys will help them stay out of trouble. But don't be discouraged if you find that your little kitty ends up liking the packaging even more than that expensive toy! Just go with the flow, and be happy if you find something they enjoy. Try to rotate their toys often, in order to keep them interested.

You will probably find that your cat will play with just about anything if he feels playful. Keeping that in mind, try and hide those things you don't want torn apart, or which could be dangerous. For example, the last thing you want is for your cat to play with (and subsequently destroy) your ink pens - all over your white carpet - while you are away at work. You can try giving your cat all kinds of household items to play with if you'd like, but be careful! He may get the message that the entire house is up for grabs. It is best to be clear that toys are toys, period. Just make sure you always have enough to keep him interested.

4. A good reliable veterinarian. A good way to find a veterinarian is through references. Ask any friends who have cats whether they can recommend a veterinarian. It is important to find and become familiar with a vet before you even bring your cat home. There is nothing worse than having to scramble to find a vet in the middle of the night when your cat gets sick. Take this important step before you need it, and you will be very thankful if such a moment ever comes.

If you don't happen to have any cat-loving friends who can recommend a great veterinarian, all is not lost. Feel free to contact your local animal shelter or rescue group. They will always have recommendations for you, and often they will even be able to tell you which vet is the least expensive option. The Humane Society is another resource you can tap when looking for a reliable vet for your cat or kitten. As a last resort, you can always look in the phone book or online.  However, keep in mind that word of mouth is always the best way to find a reliable service provider. You want to make sure your beloved pet has the best care available when the time comes that you need it.

5. A brush. Cats need to be groomed. You can easily pick up a quality brush at your local pet store. Brushing your cat regularly has a number of benefits, not the least of which is to help you form a close bond with your feline friend. In addition, brushing cuts down significantly on shedding, which is one of the few nuisances about having a cat. Not only that, but cutting down on the amount of hair that the cat has to groom himself will go a long way toward preventing hairballs. Taking the time to brush your cat on a regular basis pays off hugely in the long run. (Oh, and by the way, make sure the brush you buy is comfortable for your hand.)

6. Patience. Sometimes owning a pet can be frustrating. That is normal, but it is important to maintain your patience. Remember, cats are a different species, and it will take some time for both you and your new cat to adjust to living together. It will help to give him some time to acquaint himself with his new home by letting him roam through the house and sniffing everything out. Make sure you go through this website and read all the articles about training your cat. The information will really help you to train your new cat as quickly and easily as possible.

7. Love. Of course, nothing is as important to a happy relationship with your pet as love! It will be easy when you look into your little kitten's eyes to fall in love right away. Even when you get frustrated, keep that love and patience in mind. If you have these in abundance, you are well on your way to a long, happy life with your kitty.

Now, go out and retrieve your new pet. She's been expecting you.