The Ultimate New Cat Owner Guide: Essential Tips for First-Time Kitty Parents

Person Holding White Kitten

Welcoming a new cat into your life is so exciting, and at the same time, very confusing as you scramble to find what your new fur baby needs to feel safe. Cats love all things comfortable, quiet, and light. First impressions matter! 

Here at Pets Indeed, we help new kitty parents design the perfect space where their new buddy can lounge, explore, and blossom every single day too.

First Understanding Your New Cat’s Personality

Cats act differently from dogs by nature in the sense that they mostly prefer their independence and personal space. This means your new buddy might curl up with you one minute and wander off for his own little solo siesta the next.  

That’s totally normal. A little bit of affection and a little bit of time to themselves, that’s the charm of a cat. 

So, when you get your first cat, expect the first week to be about slow exploration, some napping in hiding, and a little gentle curiosity. Give your fur baby a little time to warm up. With patience and settled routines it won't be long before they start to trust you and feel at home.

Tip You Need to Know As a First-time Cat Parent

Sleeping Tabby Cat

Without further ado, here are some essential tips you need to know as a new cat owner.

1. Preparing Your Home Before Your Cat Arrives

Getting your home ready in advance means your new furbaby feels safe from the instant they arrive. Since your new kitty loves familiar scents, warm corners and a quiet place to retreat, settling it all ahead of time cuts their stress.

Make sure to have a few places to hide such as a soft bed tucked in a corner or even a simple litter box just for them. 

Here’s what to have on hand:

• Comfortable bed

• Litter box and scoop

• Quality cat food

• Food and water bowls

• Scratching post

• Toys for play

• Brush for grooming

Scratching posts and vertical spaces are important too. They give your buddy healthy outlets for climbing, stretching and releasing energy. You can find these essential pet supplies for cats at Pets Indeed.

2. Setting Up the Litter Box Correctly

Setting up the litter box the right way helps your new buddy feel calm and confident from day one. Cats like quiet spaces, so put it away from loud appliances and busy walkways. The idea is to give kitty a place where she knows bathroom time will feel safe and predictable. 

Instead of a box, you can use the Double Layer, Non Slip Litter Mat. This item gives your cat a soft, stable, and easy-to-clean space to call theirs. Also remember to scoop and clean her litter daily to keep things fresh and encourage her to keep using her box.

*Note:  If she won’t use it, she probably is telling you the location is a stressful place to go, or the litter feels scratchy.

3. Feeding Your Cat the Right Way

Cats are obligate carnivores whose bodies thrive on meat, which means they require a high-protein diet to stay healthy. High quality animal protein provides essential amino acids such as taurine and arginine that cats cannot create. 

• Kittens require more frequent feeds (3-5 small meals per day) with diets higher in protein and calories to keep up with their rapid growth rates.

• Adult cats do well on a regular routine of balanced meals (one to two meals per day). 

Portion control is vital since too much food (particularly rich foods) can lead to obesity. If your lifestyle makes it hard to monitor their meals, get the Smart Automatic Pet Feeder to make life much easier.

4. Building a Strong Bond Through Play

Play is an outlet for your cat’s energy. At the same time, it helps to keep them fit and healthy, and it reassures them that they are safe in their new home. Interactive play also reinforces your bond as their favourite human.

Some great toys include feather wands, crinkly tunnels, and balls. You can get your cat more engaged with Smart Mouse Toys, as small, squeaking, moving objects trigger their hunting instincts. 

Try to fit a few short sessions a day and let your kitty hunt, pounce, and chase at their own pace. Doing this consistently will create a consistent idea of safety, comfort, and love in your kitty's mind.

5. Grooming and Basic Health Care

Even though your kitty will groom herself, a little brushing is helpful for the health of her coat and will reduce the amount of hair floating around the house. Short-haired cats need only a few minutes of brushing a week, while longer-haired breeds, especially maine coons, often require daily grooming to prevent mats and tangles.

This consistent grooming makes them less likely to need professional grooming regularly. However, if they do require professional grooming, they will be more cooperative because they are already accustomed to being groomed at home.

*Note: While brushing, keep an eye out for anything unusual like little bumps, scratches, anything that may be irritated. If caught in time, it can prevent them from escalating into bigger medical problems.

Bonus: Your Cat’s First Vet Visit

You’ll need to take your new fur baby to the vet. Core vaccines protect your kitty from becoming infected with common cat diseases, parasite prevention reduces the chance of fleas, ticks, and worms, and microchipping ensures anyone can identify your beloved cat whenever they get lost.

The vet will carry out a full health check and talk to you about diet and care while answering any questions you have about your new buddy. Take your cat’s favorite blanket or toy with you on the journey to keep them stress-free.

Final Thoughts

Kids Playing with White Cat

Ultimately, you’ll need to help your cat get used to being in your home. Start with a quiet environment, let them explore at their own pace, and then introduce other pets and family members. 

The first few days in your home can be stressful and anxiety-inducing, but predictability and consistency can ease this feeling over time. So, stick to a routine and shower them with kind words, gentle hands, and plenty of play.

At the end, your fur baby will feel right at home, loving every second!

FAQs

1. How long does it take for a new cat to settle in?

Many take weeks, even months, to completely feel comfortable. Don’t count the time, instead, focus on providing predictability and consistency; everything your cat needs for comfort.

2. How many litter boxes do I need?

In general, get two litter boxes, the other is an extra for when the main box is being cleaned and not ready for use. Also make sure to place the litter box in a quiet and accessible spot for your cat.

3. Should I free-feed my cat or put them on a schedule?

Free feeding can quickly lead to overeating. Lots of new owners & vets recommend setting meal times and amount restrictions.

4. Is microchipping really necessary?

Yes. Microchipping greatly ups your chances of getting back together with your kitty if they go missing.

5. Why is my cat hiding so much in the first few days?

Hiding is completely normal while your new friend gets used to their surroundings. Provide “base camp” in a quiet room, and lots of places to hide and let them come out when they’re ready.