New Cat Owner Starter Checklist

Bringing a cat home is one of the best decisions you'll ever make — and one of the most overwhelming. There's a lot to think about between the excitement and the "wait, do I need a second litter box?" moments.

This checklist breaks it all down into three phases: what to get before your cat arrives, what to do during the first week, and what to tackle in the first month. No fluff, just the essentials.

Before Your Cat Arrives

Essential Supplies

• Litter box — one per cat, plus one extra. Open trays work best for most cats; covered boxes can trap odours that put some cats off.
• Cat litter — unscented clumping litter is a safe starting choice. You can experiment later once your cat is settled.
• Food and water bowls — stainless steel or ceramic. Avoid plastic, which can harbour bacteria and cause chin acne.
• Quality cat food — choose a food appropriate for your cat's life stage (kitten, adult, or senior). Look for a named protein source as the first ingredient.
• Cat carrier — hard-sided with a top opening makes vet visits much easier. Get one large enough for your cat to turn around in.
• Scratching post or board — at least one. Cats need to scratch; give them a legal option from day one.
• Bed or blanket — though many cats will choose their own spot regardless.
• Basic toys — a wand toy, a few small balls, and something crinkly. You don't need to go overboard yet.

Home Preparation

• Choose a "safe room" — a small, quiet room where your cat can decompress for the first few days. Set up food, water, litter, and a hiding spot there.
• Cat-proof the safe room — secure loose cables, remove toxic plants, close off small gaps behind appliances. (See our Cat-Proofing Checklist for the full room-by-room guide.)
• Remove or secure hazards — rubber bands, hair ties, string, tinsel, and small objects cats love to swallow.
• Check your plants — lilies, pothos, and many common houseplants are toxic to cats. When in doubt, move them out of reach. (See our complete toxic plants list.)

Vet and Admin

• Find a local vet — ideally before your cat arrives. Book a first check-up within the first week.
• Locate your nearest emergency vet — know where to go at 2 a.m. Save the address and phone number.
• Gather your cat's records — vaccination history, microchip number, spay/neuter status, and any known health conditions from the shelter or breeder.
• Budget for initial vet costs — first exam, vaccinations, and parasite prevention. Costs vary by region, so call ahead.

The First Week

• Let your cat explore at their own pace — keep them in the safe room for the first one to three days. Some cats are confident from the start; others need more time. Follow their lead.
• Establish feeding routine — feed at consistent times (twice daily for adults). Cats thrive on predictability.
• Show them the litter box — place your cat in or near the box when you first set them down. Most cats figure it out quickly, but a gentle introduction helps.
• Minimise loud noises and visitors — give your cat a calm environment to adjust. The housewarming party can wait.
• Start bonding gently — sit near your cat, talk softly, offer treats. Don't force interaction. Let them come to you.
• Monitor eating, drinking, and litter box use — cats may not eat much in the first 24-48 hours due to stress. If your cat hasn't eaten in over 48 hours, contact your vet.
• Attend the first vet appointment — bring any records from the shelter or breeder. Discuss vaccination schedule, parasite prevention, and microchipping.

The First Month

• Gradually expand access — once your cat seems confident in the safe room, open one new room at a time.
• Introduce a play routine — 10-15 minutes of interactive play, twice a day. Wand toys are most cats' favourite.
• Start grooming habits early — brush your cat gently a few times a week, even if they have short fur. It builds trust and catches skin issues early.
• Get them used to being handled — gently touch paws, ears, and mouth. This makes future vet visits and nail trims much less stressful.
• Set up vertical space — a cat tree, shelf, or even a cleared bookshelf. Cats feel secure when they can survey their territory from above.
• Establish house rules — if certain areas are off-limits, start redirecting now. Consistency matters more than strictness.
• Consider pet insurance — easier and often cheaper to get when your cat is young and healthy.
• Register the microchip — if your cat is chipped, make sure your contact details are registered and up to date with the chip company.

Quick Reference: Essential Shopping List

Signs Your Cat Is Settling In

You'll know your cat is feeling at home when they start:

• Eating and drinking normally
• Using the litter box consistently
• Exploring beyond their safe room
• Seeking you out for attention or play
• Slow-blinking at you (the feline "I trust you")
• Sleeping belly-up or in exposed positions

Every cat adjusts at their own pace. Some are settled within days; others take weeks. Patience is the most important thing you can offer.

FAQ

How long does it take a new cat to adjust?

Most cats settle within one to four weeks, but some shy or previously stray cats may take two to three months to feel fully comfortable. Let your cat set the pace.

Should I get one litter box or two?

Two is the minimum for a single cat. The general rule is one per cat, plus one extra. Place them in different locations.

What if my new cat hides and won't come out?

This is completely normal. Leave food and water nearby, talk softly, and give them time. Don't pull them out of hiding — that erodes trust. Most cats start venturing out within a few days.

Related reading: Cat-Proofing Your Home Checklist | Cat Emergency Signs Checklist | All Checklists