Planning to Get a Cat? What to Consider Before You Bring One Home

You might be thinking of adding a small four-legged friend to your life. Cats can make for great company and are a lot of fun to play with. For those with a small house and no garden or anyone that loves cats, they are a great pet. As with any pet, they come with responsibilities, they need to be kept safe, comfortable and occupied.

To do this, you will need to buy a few things like cat name tags and collars, a bed, food and water bowls. We’ve put together a few things that will help you to keep your cat safe and comfortable.

How to Keep Your Feline Friend Safe

If you live on a main road, you might want to consider the safety of your new cat. Thousands of cats are knocked over by cars every year - the last thing you want is to lose your new best friend. Admittedly, it can be difficult to keep your cat safe. Where dogs would rather be by your side 24 hours a day, a cat likes to be independent.

Curious in nature, they will wander around the area in search of things to do. For this reason, it would be beneficial to either have your cat microchipped, or ensure that it has a collar with an up-to-date name tag. That way, if your cat does become lost, you may be able to find and identify them sooner.

Make Your Home Comfortable for Your Cat

Your home is your sanctuary and, for years, you may have just had to look after yourself. Now that you are getting a cat, you will need to prepare an area that they can call their own. Make sure to have a separate eating area for your cat to deter it from impacting on your own eating space. You will need to buy a bowl for food and water, but make sure to buy one that doesn't spill over easily so you don't end up with your foot in a puddle of water.

If your cat has somewhere warm to go during this cold January period, it will feel safe and comfortable. The best way to do this is to buy them a bed or climbing frame that they can call their own and curl up in. A good climbing frame might also save your furniture from being scratched.

Cat Names Tags and Collars

A name tag for your pet will allow everyone to know their name and where they have come from. Like microchipping, this can also help you reunite with your cat if it ever goes missing, but a name tag is obviously easier to access.

What to Consider Before Getting a Cat

1. Time and Lifestyle
Cats are generally more independent than dogs, but they still need daily attention, mental stimulation, and social interaction.

2. Kitten or Adult Cat?
Kittens require more time, training, and patience. Adult cats may be calmer and already litter-trained, making them a better fit for some households.

3. Indoor or Outdoor Access
Decide whether your cat will stay indoors, be allowed outside, or have access to a secure garden or patio. This choice affects their environment, health, and safety needs.

4. Costs Involved
Beyond adoption fees, budget for food, litter, toys, scratching posts, vet visits, flea and worm treatments, and pet insurance.

5. Allergies and Family Readiness
Check if anyone in the household has allergies and ensure all family members are comfortable and committed to welcoming a cat.

6. Space and Enrichment
Cats need vertical space, quiet areas to retreat, and places to scratch and climb. Make sure your home can accommodate their needs.

7. Long-Term Commitment
Cats can live 15 years or more. Think ahead to ensure your lifestyle can support a pet over the long term.

Final Thought
Getting a cat is a joyful and rewarding decision when well thought out. With the right preparation and understanding of their needs, you’ll be ready to give your new companion a happy, healthy home.