Bringing a new cat home is a moment filled with excitement and joy. But between the anticipation and the first purr, a common question arises: “What cat supplies do I actually need to ensure my new feline friend is happy, healthy, and safe?”
The pet store aisle can be overwhelming, filled with endless products and conflicting advice. It’s easy to end up with a cart full of non-essentials while missing the critical items that support your cat’s well-being.
That’s where this definitive guide comes in. Consider this your vet-reviewed, behaviorist-informed checklist for essential cat supplies. We’ve cut through the clutter to provide a clear, organized list that separates the must-haves from the nice-to-haves. Our mission at AvailPet is to make “All Your Pet Needs, Made Available,” and that starts with a solid foundation.
Whether you’re a first-time owner or a seasoned pro preparing for a new arrival, this guide will ensure you have everything you need—from the critical (like a secure carrier and the right litter box) to the comforting (like a cozy bed and engaging toys)—to create a welcoming and enriching home for your new family member from the very first day.
Let’s get your home ready.
The Absolute Must-Haves: Your Cat’s Survival Kit
Before you even think about fun toys or stylish accessories, these are the non-negotiable items. Investing in these core cat supplies from the start is crucial for your cat’s immediate health, safety, and well-being. Getting these right from day one prevents stress and sets the stage for a smooth transition.
A Secure Cat Carrier
This isn’t just for vet visits; it’s your cat’s safe pod for travel and emergencies. Avoid flimsy, cardboard, or soft-sided carriers for primary use. Choose a hard-sided, well-ventilated carrier that is easy to clean and provides a sense of security. A carrier is the most fundamental item in your cat supplies checklist for safe transportation.
To find a model that balances safety, comfort, and ease of use, read our detailed breakdown of the Best Cat Carriers.
High-Quality Cat Food & Bowls
Nutrition is the cornerstone of health. You’ll need high-quality food appropriate for your cat’s life stage (kitten, adult, senior). Pair it with the right dishes: shallow, wide bowls made of ceramic or stainless steel are best, as they are easy to clean and don’t harbor bacteria like plastic cans. For a deep dive into nutritional choices, see our vet-reviewed guide: Wet vs Dry Cat Food: Choosing the Best for Your Cat.
The Litter Box System
This is a two-part essential. You need both a large, open litter box (most cats prefer them over hooded ones) and a clumping or non-clumping cat litter that your cat will reliably use. Place it in a quiet, low-traffic area. For a complete breakdown of this entire topic, our Ultimate Guide to Cat Litter Box Solutions covers types, placement, and training.
For the ultimate in convenience, a self cleaning cat litter box can be a game-changer. And for life on the go, a portable cat travel litter box is an essential upgrade.
A Sturdy Scratching Post
Scratching is a non-negotiable natural behavior for cats—it conditions their claws, marks territory, and stretches their muscles. Providing a dedicated scratching post (sisal rope is a favorite material) is essential to save your furniture. It’s one of the most important cat supplies for behavior management. Learn more about feline instincts in our guide: 25 Common Cat Behaviors Explained.
A full-size best cat tree often provides the most satisfying scratching surfaces, along with vertical territory. We’ve tested the top models for stability and durability.
Comfort & Enrichment: Building a Happy Home
Once the survival basics are covered, it’s time to transform your house into a true home for your cat. These cat supplies are dedicated to your feline’s mental stimulation, physical comfort, and overall happiness. A stimulated cat is a content cat, and these items are key to preventing boredom and its associated behavioral issues.
A Cozy Cat Bed
Every cat deserves a dedicated space to call their own. While they might claim your bed too, a bed placed in a warm, quiet, and secure spot provides them with a safe retreat. Look for beds with soft, washable fabrics and bolstered sides that offer security and a place to rest their head.
For senior cats or those who love extra warmth, a heated cat bed can provide soothing comfort for achy joints.
A Variety of Engaging Toys
Play is essential for a cat’s physical health and mental well-being. A robust collection of cat supplies should include different toy types:
- Interactive Wands: Mimic the thrill of the hunt, allowing you to bond with your cat while giving them exercise.
- Puzzle Feeders: These slow down eating and provide mental stimulation, turning mealtime into a rewarding game.
- Independent Toys: Small, lightweight toys like balls or mice that your cat can bat around on their own.
- You don’t need to break the bank on toys—our guide to DIY Cat Toys shows you how to create fun with household items. Always play safely; our vet’s insight on whether laser pointers are bad for cats is a must-read.
A Cat Tree or Wall Shelves
Cats feel secure when they can survey their domain from up high. A cat tree is a multi-functional piece of essential cat supplies that provides a scratching surface, perches for napping, and a vertical territory to claim. For small spaces, wall-mounted shelves create a “cat superhighway” that enriches their environment without sacrificing floor space.
Health & Grooming Supplies
Proactive care is a cornerstone of responsible pet ownership. Including these essential health and grooming supplies in your kit ensures your cat not only looks their best but feels their best, while also allowing you to monitor their well-being between vet visits.
Basic Grooming Tools
Regular grooming is about more than just a glossy coat.
- A slicker brush or grooming glove helps remove loose fur and reduce shedding and hairballs.
- Cat-specific nail clippers are essential for keeping claws at a safe, comfortable length and protecting your furniture—and your skin. Using the right tool is half the battle. We review the best cat nail clippers for a clean, stress-free trim.
- Using a grooming glove can be a gentler alternative for cats who dislike brushes. For a stress-free experience, pair your tools with our expert guide on How to Brush a Cat.
Dental Health Essentials
Oral health is critically linked to overall health.
- Introduce a cat-specific toothbrush and toothpaste (never human toothpaste) early to acclimate your cat to teeth cleaning.
- Dental treats and water additives can provide supplementary support for fresh breath and tartar control.
A Pet First-Aid Kit
Be prepared for minor injuries.
- Your cat supplies should include a basic pet first-aid kit containing gauze, adhesive tape, antiseptic wipes, and a digital thermometer.
- Always keep your veterinarian’s and the nearest emergency vet’s phone numbers easily accessible.
Identification:
- A safety-release collar and an ID tag with your current contact information are simple cat supplies that can be lifesaving if your cat ever gets out.
- Discuss microchipping with your veterinarian as a permanent form of identification.
“The recommendation for a safety-release collar is widely supported by organizations like the ASPCA to prevent accidental injury.“
Optional but Worthwhile Supplies
While not essential for survival, these cat supplies can significantly enhance your cat’s quality of life and add a layer of convenience to your daily routine. Think of these as the upgrades that can solve specific problems or provide an extra level of enrichment for a truly pampered pet.
Automatic Feeders & Water Fountains:
- An automatic feeder is fantastic for portion control, managing specific dietary schedules, or ensuring your cat is fed on time when you’re away.
- A cat water fountain provides a continuous flow of fresh, filtered water. The moving water is often more enticing to cats, encouraging them to drink more, which supports kidney and urinary tract health.
We’ve tested the latest models to find the most reliable automatic cat feeders and the quietest, most effective cat water fountains on the market.
Calming Aids:
- For cats that are naturally anxious, struggle with travel, or are adjusting to a new home, calming supplies like pheromone diffusers (e.g., Feliway) or calming treats can help reduce stress and promote a sense of security.
Window Perches & Catios:
- Cats are natural spectators. A sturdy window perch provides a front-row seat to the outside world, offering hours of mental stimulation from watching birds and squirrels.
- For the ultimate enrichment, a catio (a cat patio) offers safe, enclosed access to the outdoors, allowing them to experience fresh air and sound safely.
Pet Cameras:
- A pet camera allows you to check in on your cat, dispense treats remotely, and even interact with them through a built-in laser pointer. It’s the ultimate tool for peace of mind for the modern pet owner.
Harness Training for Adventure
For the curious cat, safe outdoor exploration can be incredibly enriching. This starts with the right gear and proper training.
The first step is a perfect fit. Our guide on How to Measure a Cat for a Harness is essential. Once you have the measurements, you can choose from the best cat harness and leash sets we’ve reviewed.
Your Cat Supplies Shopping Checklist
To make your preparation easy, we’ve created this simple, printable checklist. Save it, check off the boxes, and you’ll be perfectly prepared for your new feline friend!
Absolute Must-Haves
- Secure Cat Carrier (Hard-sided)
- High-Quality Cat Food
- Food & Water Bowls (Ceramic/Stainless Steel)
- Litter Box (Large, open)
- Cat Litter (Clumping or Non-Clumping)
- Sturdy Scratching Post (Sisal)
Comfort & Enrichment
- Cozy Cat Bed
- Interactive Toys (Wands, lasers)
- Independent Toys (Balls, mice)
- Puzzle Feeders
- Cat Tree or Wall Shelves
Health & Grooming
- Grooming Brush/Glove
- Cat Nail Clippers
- Toothbrush & Cat Toothpaste
- Pet First-Aid Kit
- Safety-Release Collar & ID Tag
Optional Upgrades
- Automatic Feeder
- Water Fountain
- Calming Aids (Diffuser, treats)
- Window Perch
- Pet Camera
Conclusion
Congratulations! With this comprehensive checklist of essential cat supplies, you’re now fully equipped to welcome your new cat into a safe, stimulating, and loving home. Remember, the goal isn’t to buy everything at once, but to prioritize the essentials that ensure your cat’s health and happiness from day one.
At AvailPet, our mission is to make “All Your Pet Needs, Made Available.” This guide is just the beginning. As you and your cat grow together, we’ll be here with in-depth reviews and expert advice on all the products mentioned here. For detailed recommendations on the best brands and models, be sure to explore our dedicated Best Cat Products section.
Here’s to the start of a wonderful journey with your new best friend.
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For detailed reviews, don’t forget to check out our Best Cat Products page.
Article Sources and Verification:
At AvailPet, we are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based information. Our articles are thoroughly researched and written by pet care enthusiasts, then reviewed and verified by a team of dedicated pet owners and researchers to ensure they meet our high standards for accuracy and integrity. We utilize a combination of the following sources:
Peer-Reviewed Veterinary Journals: For scientific claims regarding pet health and nutrition.
Interviews with Licensed Veterinarians: For professional advice and medical recommendations.
Reputable Institutions: Such as the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), and Cornell Feline Health Center.
Direct Product Testing & Manufacturer Information: For our hands-on product reviews and recommendations.
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