Have you been wistfully scrolling through cat profiles on your local shelter’s website and think it’s time to get a cat?
Cats are wonderful companions and often strike the balance between loving and independent that so many people appreciate. If you’re still on the fence about whether you’re 100% ready, we’re here to help.
There are a few questions to ask yourself to make sure you’re prepared for all things being a pet parent to a cat entails.
As with any pet, cats are a big commitment, so we’ve pulled together all the essential things you need to know and consider before clicking that “apply to adopt” link.
How long can I take care of them for?
If you’ve never had a cat before, you might be surprised to know that the average lifespan can be anywhere from 15 to 20 years, but with proper care, sometimes they can go well beyond that! If you’re adopting a kitten, they’ll likely be around for a big chunk of your life.
Many pet parents will tell you that you always want more time with them, but it’s important to ask yourself where you’ll be in 10, 15, or even 20 years. Life can change quickly between getting a new job, moving house, or starting a family, so you want to be sure you’re prepared for your cat to be right there with you every step of the way.
How will they get along with my children or other pets?
Every household has its own dynamic with all the personalities in the mix.
If you’ve got kids or other pets, consider how a new feline addition will fit in. Some cats are naturally more social, while others prefer a quieter environment and slower introductions.
Make sure initial introductions between kids are done in a safe, calm and controlled way.
Give your kids some pointers on how to handle cats (and let them know how they differ from dogs, if you have one). No tail-pulling or surprise cuddles from behind is a good place to start, and making sure your little ones know that sometimes cats need personal space to retreat to when the energy gets a bit much.
And if you already have a dog, think about their temperament, energy levels and friendliness before bringing home a cat.
(A Border Collie who thinks everyone wants to play chase may need a little extra supervision around your cat!)
If you're adopting, chat with the rescue organisation about which cats have been assessed as good with other animals, there are plenty of dog-loving cats around that could be your next little buddy.
Setting your cat up in a room like the bathroom initially lets them get accustomed to your home, but it also means your cat and dog can sniff each other out before their first face-to-face introduction. Take things slowly and keep initial meetings short and supervised.
What are the vet costs of a cat?
One of the big questions to ask yourself is whether you’re prepared for the financial responsibilities.
If you already have a pet, you’ll likely be familiar with the ongoing costs - especially the basics like food, treats and toys. But the vet visits and regular health care should also be added to the budget. Your kitten will need vaccinations, desexing and microchipping, along with ongoing dental check-ups and cat-specific parasite prevention throughout their life.
The unexpected vet visit can also occur occasionally. Review your weekly budget and see whether something like pet insurance can be added into the mix, or if you can put some money aside each pay cycle for those just-in-case vet visits.
What do cats need when they move in?
Along with the ongoing bits and soft launches to meet the family, there are a few things you’ll need on hand before a new four-legged friend joins the family. Here are the must-haves you’ll need to consider whether you have the budget and space for:
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Food and water bowls: They don’t need to be fancy, but you’ll want some options that are sturdy enough for everyday use and cleaning. Flat, wide bowls and feeders are often a good choice as they won’t give your cats whisker fatigue (which is when their whiskers bump into the edges, which can be off-putting for cats).
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Food: Next, you need something to go in the bowls. Different ages require different caloric intakes, and it’s often beneficial to have a mix of dry and wet cat food.
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Litter tray and cat litter: Even if you have an enclosed garden for your prospective cat to do their business in, it’s still important to have a litter tray for when they’re first settling in and overnight toilet trips when they’re settled indoors. The general rule is one tray per cat in your home, plus one extra. Different cats sometimes like different litter, so be prepared to experiment with a few if you’re considering getting a cat.
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Cat carrier: You'll need a cat carrier for the trip home if you do commit to adopting a cat, along with any vet visits after that.
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A bed: Cats love snuggly places to curl up, but for full disclosure, don’t be surprised if they choose a pile of laundry on the floor over a designated cat bed. Still, everyone loves options and cats are no exception so we still recommend adding it to the list when you’re considering becoming a first-time cat owner!
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Toys: Cats need mental stimulation, and a few good cat-safe toys go a long way. Wand toys, balls, and puzzle feeders are all great for keeping them engaged and active. Otherwise, you might find a scrunched-up receipt or hair tie being their first choice over dedicated toys.
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Scratching post: Are you particularly attached to your sofa? If yes, a scratching post or mat is non-negotiable. Cats need to scratch to keep their claws healthy, so providing a good spot to scratch is important (and your furniture will thank you).
Are you ready to cat-proof?
Along with getting the bits they need to keep them fed, well-rested, and entertained, you’ll also need to do a few things around the house.
Kittens in particular love to climb and explore, so check that you can tuck away loose cords and cables, and secure your home properly. That means ensuring windows can close fully and anything fragile on shelves is either secured or put behind a glass door to prevent any knocks when your new little buddy is finding their feet.
Adult cats are often a little more laidback, so they'll appreciate a quiet, enclosed room to decompress in for the first few days while they get used to the new sights, sounds and smells of your home.
Got houseplants? Some cats love to use their little teeth to punch holes in plants, and while some are cat-safe, some are very toxic, so you’ll need to remove them before adopting a cat or kitten.
Do you have an enclosed space for them?
Another thing to know about owning a cat is that you’ll need to be able to keep them indoors, at least to a certain extent.
The laws vary state to state, but some have mandatory containment laws or curfews. Before your new little friend moves in, check what applies in your area so you can make sure your property is set up to keep them safely within the boundaries. It’s also a safety consideration. You don't want them wandering onto a road or into someone else's property.
If all of this sounds right for you, it could be time to start your cat adoption journey! Explore the Petstock Adoption Hub to find your perfect match, or shop cat products to get everything you need for your new friend.