Bringing a cat home means preparing for more than food and a litter box. Cats need a clean, quiet place to go to the bathroom, safe places to climb and hide, something to scratch, and supplies suited to their age and personality.
This guide covers the essential cat supplies every owner should consider, how to choose the right products, and simple ways to set up your home so your cat feels safe and settled.
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Essential Cat Supplies Checklist
A young kitten, a busy adult cat, and a senior cat may need different things. The essentials below are a good starting point for almost any cat.
1. Suitable Cat Food
Choose a food made for your cat’s life stage: kitten, adult, or senior. Look for a statement on the package saying the food is complete and balanced, which means it meets the nutrient standards set by AAFCO.
Many vets suggest including some wet food, because cats often do not drink much water on their own. If you change foods, mix the new food in gradually over about a week to avoid an upset stomach. Ask your vet for advice if your cat has kidney disease, diabetes, urinary problems, or a weight concern.
2. Food and Water Bowls
Many cats prefer wide, shallow dishes that do not brush against their whiskers. Stainless-steel or ceramic bowls are easy to clean and less likely to hold odors than plastic.
Some cats drink more from moving water. A cat water fountain can encourage drinking, but it needs regular cleaning and filter changes. Keep water away from the litter box, and wash bowls daily.
3. Litter Box and Litter
The litter box is the most important cat supply you will buy. A common rule from vets is one box per cat, plus one extra, placed in quiet, easy-to-reach spots.
- Choose a large litter box. Most boxes sold are too small for an adult cat. Your cat should be able to turn around easily
- Many cats prefer uncovered boxes, which hold less odor inside
- For senior cats or cats with arthritis, choose a low-entry box
- Most cats prefer unscented, clumping litter that feels like sand
- A sturdy litter scoop and a lidded trash can make daily scooping easier
Scoop at least once a day, and wash the whole box with mild soap and water regularly. A cat that suddenly stops using the box, strains, or goes often with little output should see a vet right away, because this can be a sign of a urinary blockage, especially in male cats.
4. Scratching Posts
Scratching is normal behavior. It keeps claws healthy and lets cats stretch and mark their territory. Giving your cat good places to scratch protects your furniture.
- Choose a tall, heavy scratching post that will not wobble. Most cats want to stretch out fully
- Offer a flat cardboard scratcher too, since some cats prefer to scratch horizontally
- Place scratchers near where your cat sleeps and near furniture they like to scratch
Regular nail trims help too. See our guide on how to trim your cat’s nails safely.
5. A Cat Tree or Climbing Space
Cats feel safer when they can watch the room from up high. A cat tree with a wide, stable base gives your cat a place to climb, nap, and observe. Window perches are a simple way to add “cat TV” if you are short on space.
6. A Comfortable Bed and Hiding Spots
Many cats like a soft, enclosed place to curl up. A round, raised-edge bed like the Bedsure Calming Donut Bed for Dogs and Cats comes in small sizes that suit most cats and has a machine-washable design. Cats also appreciate a simple hiding spot, such as a covered bed or even a cardboard box, especially in a new home.
7. Toys and Play
Play keeps cats active and helps prevent boredom, weight gain, and behavior problems. Aim for a few short play sessions every day.
- A wand toy lets your cat chase and pounce, which is the most natural kind of play
- Food puzzles slow down fast eaters and keep busy minds occupied
- Small balls and kicker toys are good for solo play
- Put away strings, ribbons, and hair ties after play. Cats can swallow them, which can cause dangerous blockages
8. A Cat Carrier
Every cat needs a carrier for vet visits and emergencies. A hard-sided carrier with a top opening makes it easier to place a nervous cat inside. Leave the carrier out at home with a soft blanket inside so it becomes a familiar place rather than a sign of a vet trip.
9. Identification
Indoor cats sometimes slip out a door. A microchip is the most reliable form of ID, as long as your contact information is up to date with the registry. If your cat wears a collar, choose a breakaway collar that releases if it gets caught on something, and add an ID tag with your phone number.
10. Grooming Supplies
- A cat brush suited to your cat’s coat. Long-haired cats need daily brushing to prevent mats
- Cat nail clippers made for small claws
- Dental care products recommended by your vet
11. Cleaning Supplies
Accidents happen, especially with kittens and older cats. An enzyme cleaner breaks down the odor that can draw a cat back to the same spot. Avoid ammonia-based cleaners, because the smell can encourage cats to mark there again.
Setting Up Your Home
- Give a new cat one quiet room to start, with food, water, a litter box, a bed, and a hiding spot
- Keep the litter box well away from food and water
- Secure window screens and close dryer doors before starting the machine
- Put away toxic houseplants, especially lilies, which are extremely dangerous to cats
- Store medications, cleaning products, and string out of reach
Common Cat-Supply Mistakes
Buying a Litter Box That Is Too Small
A cramped box is one of the most common reasons cats stop using it. Bigger is almost always better.
Choosing a Short or Wobbly Scratching Post
If a post tips or is too short to stretch on, your cat will choose the couch instead.
Using Strongly Scented Litter or Cleaners
Cats have a much stronger sense of smell than we do. Scents that seem pleasant to us can drive them away from the box.
Ignoring Your Cat’s Changing Needs
Senior cats may need lower litter boxes, ramps or steps to favorite spots, softer bedding, and more frequent vet checkups. Reassess your cat’s supplies as they age. For cold-weather tips, see our guide on how to keep senior and outdoor cats warm this winter.
Final Thoughts
The best cat supplies are the ones that suit your cat’s natural habits: a clean, roomy litter box, sturdy places to scratch and climb, fresh water, safe play, and a cozy place to rest. Start with the essentials, watch what your cat likes, and add more as you learn their personality.
For more ideas, see our guides to the best holiday gifts for dogs and cats, eco-friendly pet products, and the essential dog supplies checklist if you have a dog too.
What cat product has made the biggest difference in your home? Share your experience in the comments or join the conversation in our Pet Supplies Where Facebook group.
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