guest post courtesy of Kosta Hristov: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the guest author and do not necessarily represent the views of Val Heart & Heart Communications Enterprises Inc. 

Before anyone feels the need to adopt any pet, it is always recommended to do your homework regarding them, including their wants and needs. No matter which pet it is, a dog or a cat, or even a guinea pig, some things will surprise you about them. Being well-prepared for when you bring that pooch or furry ball of a kitten home is always a clever thing to do. Also, you will have less of a headache in the long run. But if you are a new pet owner and thinking about adopting a cat or a kitten and don’t know where to start, we have got you covered.

This article will help to shine a light on the 10 products that every cat owner should have in their home to make life for both you and him a lot easier.

Firstly, well done for giving your little friend a home. Secondly, let’s get going onto that list, shall we?

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What you need Before you Bring the Feline Home

Something to Carry or Transport Him in.

A cat crate or carrier should ideally be the first thing you purchase because you will be using it to transport him, first from the adoption center to the house, then from the house to the veterinarian for those regular check-ups. When you are looking for a good one, make sure you choose one made of sturdy material that has plenty of ventilation, like holes and little windows around it.

Using something such as a cardboard box won’t suffice because there is no ventilation in it. Eventually it will weaken and break, especially if the cat pees in it, plus he can easily claw his way out of it at some point.

Something to Feed Him and Give Him Water.

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A feeding bowl and water bowl are two of the most essential items you should get. Something big enough and deep enough for liquids such as water and the same for his treats.  Also get another one for wet foods, which are considered better for them and their teeth as well https://www.preventivevet.com/cats/how-much-water-cats-need-tips-for-preventing-dehydration

However, if you’ve decided to adopt a kitten, you should rather get a shallow bowl so he doesn’t end up having to dunk his head inside to reach for food. A small plate will also suffice. The ones you buy from the pet stores should be specifically for kittens, so look out for those instead. Clean these bowls thoroughly on a regular basis just as  you would wash your own dishes.

Something He Can Eat.

Of course, you need to stock up on the best types of food for him. Never overfeed him or leave too much food on his plate. Have strict guidelines for when you will feed him at the same time every day and in minimal quantities. Go for quality over quantity; when you research, check for unbiased cat product reviews. Cats tend to suffer from various diseases, so always avoid giving them junk foods. Stick to a healthy balanced meal. Don’t forget to always have a bowl of fresh clean water next to their food.

Products you can look for are wet cat food cans, such as organic cat foods, or dental cat treats. These will help keep their teeth and gums in a healthy state. You can also invest in grain-free foods. You can get an array of different types so choose the one most suitable for him or her.

Something He Can Poo in.

Again, a necessity. A litter box is also something you should buy in terms of quality. Your product will need to be big enough for him not just for now, but he will need to fit into it comfortably when he gets older.

Also, litter boxes come in many types. For instance a self-cleaning litter box (which has become the thing for many pet owners so they can avoid having to replace the litter every few hours due to the smell) is something you could look for. Some of the best self-cleaning litter boxes have been through several cat product tests, with some of the best-advanced technology out there, so you do not need to worry when you have a busy lifestyle and need to be out and about all day.

Something He Can Scratch.

This is one of their favorite pastimes, so why shouldn’t we indulge them? However, if you don’t want them to ruin your precious and expensive upholstery on your couches, curtains, cushions, and anything that they can get their claws into, get them something to scratch such as a scratching post or basket they can sit inside.

Some of the best products on the market allow for them to scratch it, sleep in it, eat from it, and play inside it all at once in the same item. This also acts as a toy for them which can keep them busy for hours.

Lastly, Something to Identify Them.

Cats love to roam about in and around their area.  Some of them may be well-domesticated and the curious ones need their outdoor space to explore. You can let them explore, with limitations of course.

Because of this, it is a good idea to get them a collar ID or get them tagged at the veterinary clinic with a chip or tag that is placed under their fur. If you opt for an ID collar, make sure it has all your vital information such as your name, address, and phone number so anyone can get hold of you in case the cat gets lost.

Be wary that the collar fits them properly.  A loose collar may get caught on things and they can’t breathe properly if the collar is too tight. If you fasten it and can put your two fingers underneath between the collar and his neck, then it is fine.

Besides this, you will need a nice big bed for them made from natural fibers. You can invest in a bunch of clever toys for them, perhaps a calming diffuser for them to feel less anxious in their new home. But the most important thing to offer them is loads of love and affection!

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