Bringing home a new cat or kitten? Beyond food and love, a handful of pieces of gear make the first weeks smoother — for them and for you. Here is the honest essentials checklist, with our pick guides for each so you are not left guessing.
The essentials
1. A litter box (and a mat)
Set this up before your cat even arrives. The rule of thumb is one box per cat plus one spare, and a mat underneath saves your floors from tracked litter. See our litter box picks and litter mat picks.
2. Food and water
Steady meals and fresh water come first. An automatic feeder keeps mealtimes on schedule when you are out, and many cats drink more from a water fountain than a still bowl.
3. A scratching post or cat tree
Your cat will scratch — the only question is whether it is your sofa or something meant for the job. Give them a sturdy post from day one. See our scratchers and cat trees.
4. A cozy bed
A warm, safe spot your cat can claim helps them settle in. See our cat bed picks.
5. Toys
A few interactive toys fight boredom, which matters most for indoor cats. Rotate a small set so they stay interesting. See our interactive toy picks.
6. A carrier
You need one for the ride home and every vet trip. A sturdy hard-sided carrier that opens from the top makes getting a nervous cat in and out far easier.
Nice to have
Not essential on day one, but worth adding soon: a grooming brush and nail clippers, a window perch for sunbathing and bird-watching, and a stash of treats for training and bonding.
Setting up the first day
Have the litter box, bed, food and water ready before your cat arrives. Start them in one quiet room rather than the whole house, so they can settle without feeling overwhelmed, then let them explore at their own pace over the following days. Keep the first day calm and low-key.
FAQ
What do I really need for a new kitten?
The non-negotiables are a litter box, food and water bowls, a scratching post, and a carrier. Everything else you can add as you settle in.
How much does it cost to set up for a cat?
The basics are affordable. The big optional costs are gadgets like automatic litter boxes or feeders — start simple and only upgrade what you actually find you need.
What should I set up before bringing a cat home?
The litter box, a bed or safe hideout, and water — ideally in one quiet room where your new cat can settle before exploring the rest of the house.