There are lots of things to celebrate in June, including great weather, Father’s Day, and random backyard barbeques with your friends and family. If you’re going to celebrate anything this month, though, consider celebrating Adopt-A-Cat Month® brought to you by American Humane. Before you bring home that new feline furbaby, check out some of the awesome preparation tips below.
Are You Ready for a Cat?
Before you make any other preparations, it’s important to first make sure that you are ready for the responsibility that comes with pet ownership. When you adopt a pet, you commit to caring for that animal for the rest of its life. Kittens and cats may scratch at furniture or struggle with “accidents”, especially when they are new to your home. They require continuous veterinary care, and that means having an emergency fund set aside for any potential injuries or illnesses. You might even want to consider pet insurance to cover any potential issues that could arise throughout your pet’s life. Adopting a cat is a big responsibility, so make sure you and your household are ready for it.
Supplies You’ll Need
Before you bring your new cat home, make sure you have all of the following:
- Food – Purchase high-quality cat food that is intended for your cat’s age, size, and needs. Make sure you carefully follow feeding instructions carefully.
- Food & Water Dishes – Your pet will need a specific set of dishes for food and water, and if you already have a pet, it’s always a good idea to purchase separate dishes for each one.
- Litter Box (& Accessories) – Your cat’s litter box will keep your home clean, so be sure to invest in the right one for your needs. Accessories such as liners and scoops are also available if you prefer to use them.
- Litter – Cat litter comes in a wide variety of options, but not all of them are good for the planet. Fortunately, more brands than ever offer excellent earth-friendly litters made from things like wood, walnut shells, and other plant materials.
- Collar, Harness, & Leash – Every cat should wear a collar and a tag with the owner’s name and phone number on it. Not every cat will tolerate a harness or leash, but for those that do, make sure that you purchase the right size and fit for your feline friend.
- Oral Care – Your pet’s teeth need to be cleaned, too! When you’re shopping for essentials, don’t forget to pick up eco-friendly pet toothbrushes made specifically for smaller pets. It also helps to read up on pets’ oral health so that you know what to expect.
- Scratching Post & Toys – To keep your new cat from clawing at your furniture and drapes, it’s best to provide them with a scratching post right away. This way, they can scratch comfortably without being shooed away. Toys are also important; provide your pet with earth-friendly toys that they can chase and bat around.
- A Place to Sleep – Finally, make sure to give your pet a comfy, cozy place to sleep. Some cats prefer sleeping out in the open (and usually on your bed), but others like to sleep in tight spots. For now, provide your cat with a soft pillow bed to call her own. You’ll learn what she likes best as time passes.
Making Introductions
If you have pets or small children at home, it’s vital to ensure that you introduce the new cat to everyone very slowly – preferably before bringing home your new pet for good. This way, they can learn how to share their space over time, which helps ensure that everyone gets along. Take it slowly, and make sure that you show your children how to best handle their new furry friend. If your children are very small, it’s important to supervise all of the time they spend together.
Bringing home a new cat is exciting, and it can be extremely rewarding, too. However, it’s important to make sure that you are ready for the responsibility that pet ownership brings, both now and years into the future. Visit your local shelters this June to find the perfect addition to your family, and don’t forget to have your new pet spayed or neutered, too.
