Bringing home a new kitten? Before you welcome your sweet new housemate into the folds, it’s worth knowing exactly what to buy for a new cat. Trust us, it will make those early weeks a lot smoother!

There are a lot of cat products out there and let’s be honest, it can get pretty overwhelming. Particularly for first-timers, figuring out what’s genuinely useful for your cat and what’s just a cute gimmick is no small feat – but that’s where we come in.

We’ve rounded up the must-haves (and the nice-to-haves) to help you get everything sorted before your new arrival sets paws on your floor. Here’s what you need to make your home welcoming and ready for a brand new feline friend.

What To Buy For A New Cat: The Essentials

Ready to get your home prepared for your cat’s arrival? Our handy list not only tells you what types of products you need to buy for a new cat, but some of Australia’s favourite options.

Litter tray (and litter!)

You’ll need at least one litter tray to start with, and keep in mind that some cats prefer open trays while others like the privacy of a covered one.

If you like to keep a tidy home and you’re worried about mess, opt for a cat litter box with high sides like the Michu pictured above. This means less scatter and less sweeping up!

Pair your box or tray with litter and keep it somewhere quiet and private – cats value their privacy.

Food and water bowls

The type of bowls you buy depends on your style and budget. Plastic bowls are an affordable option, but stainless steel or ceramic can be more durable and easier to wash.

Look for shallow bowls to help prevent your sensory overload on your cat’s whiskers (whisker fatigue is a very real thing!), and place them in a quiet spot.

Don’t be alarmed if your cat simply won’t drink from a water bowl. Some cats are fussy about still water, so a pet fountain can help encourage them to drink more.

Cat food

It’s critical that you’re all set to meet your cat’s nutritional needs from the get-go, so cat food is a great thing to stock up on ahead of time, especially if you spot some sales.

First of all, make sure you’re feeding age-appropriate food; kittens have different nutritional needs than fully grown cats. If you have a rescue cat, try to start off with the same food your cat is used to and transition slowly to new brands if you’d like to change.

High-quality wet and dry food both have their benefits and your vet can help guide you based on your cat’s age and health.

Cosy cat bed

Fluffy felines sleep a lot, so having a soft, warm cat bed gives them a safe space to unwind.

Our top tip while your cat is settling in is to look for something lightweight and easy to move so you can try it in different spots until your cat picks their favourite nap zone. It doesn’t have to be fancy, just ensure it’s warm, snug and ideally tucked away in a peaceful corner.

Scratching post or pad

Prepare for a LOT of scratching! And no, it’s not all recklessnes (although sometimes it is!), scratching actually helps cats to stretch, de-stress and keep their claws in check. It is very worthwhile setting up a dedicated scratching post – if only to save your sofa!

A vertical post or flat cardboard scratcher will usually do the trick. Put it near where your cat already likes to scratch (or near their bed) and encourage them to use it.

Cat carrier

A sturdy, well-ventilated carrier is a must-have if you own a cat. Not only will you need something safe and reliable for getting your cat home, but you also need one on hand for vet trips and emergencies.

Many cat owners prefer carriers that open from the top as well as the front as some cats are easier to place in from above. Don’t forget to pop a soft towel inside to make it feel a little bit more familiar.

Toys

Cats love to play, especially kittens, but they do like a bit of variety. Look for a mix of interactive toys like feather wands, laser toys like the one above and solo toys like balls or plush mice and fish that they can pounce on and swat.

Playtime is important for bonding and helps restless kitties burn energy and exercise. A lot of cat toys are very affordable, so start with a few basic things to see what your cat responds to. (Remember there’s a good chance your cat will find something in your wardrobe more thrilling than any toy you buy!)

Grooming brush

Even short-haired cats benefit from regular brushing; it reduces shedding, prevents hair ingestion and helps reduce the likelihood of furballs.

A soft bristle or rubber grooming brush is usually enough to start with, especially for kittens. Grooming also gives you a chance to check for fleas or skin issues – and it’s a lovely way to bond with your new family member.

What To Buy For A New Cat: Optional Extras

The items below are some of the “nice to have” extras some of our cat families are loving – but they definitely aren’t dealbreakers. If you’re on a budget, or perhaps low on space, feel free to shelve them for the time being.

• Cat trees and towers: These are great for climbing and lounging but not essential from day one.
• Window perches: Cats love to watch the world go by, but a comfy windowsill works just as well.
• Automatic feeders: Handy if you’re not home regularly, but manual feeding is just fine.
• Treat-dispensing toys: Good for stimulation, but basic toys do the job.
• Cat tunnels: Fun and great for play, but not necessary for settling in.

FAQs

Top image: Canva

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What’s something you’ve bought for a new cat that’s been worth every dollar? Share it with us below!