Everything You Need Before Bringing Home a Cat 🐾
Meow there, human!
If you’re reading this, I hear you’re about to welcome a majestic, whiskered roommate into your home. Lucky you! I’m Minka, yes – a cat, and this is my guide to everything you’ll need to make your cat’s arrival purrfect.
Let’s not waste time. Here’s what I expect, what I love, and what makes life better for both of us. Below are some of my paw-picked favorites, all of which I—and my little brother—have personally tested. Some of these are affiliate links because, let’s be honest, sharing my secrets is hard work and deserves a few extra treats.
- Water Fountain
- Litter Box and Unscented Litter
- Cat Bed
- Cat Scratcher
- Cat Brush
- Collar
- Toys
- Food and Treats
- Carrier and Vet Prep
1. Water Fountain
I prefer my water moving, cool, and fresh. That’s why a water fountain is ideal. It encourages hydration and is way more fun than a still bowl.
Top Pick: iPettie Tritone Ceramic Cat Water Fountain
Why I picked this: It’s ceramic (so it won’t harbor bacteria), heavy-duty, and super quiet. Plus, it looks like modern art in your kitchen.
Price when posted: $57.99
Not too sure? That’s okay, cats can be indecisive too.
Alternative: LoeJan Elevated Ceramic Water Bowl
Why I picked this: It’s whisker-friendly and helps reduce neck strain. Whisker fatigue is real—imagine trying to drink from a glass that presses into your cheeks! It’s not a diva thing—it’s hydration science, and it matters.
Price when posted: $15.99
Psst… one more thing from me, your furry guide.
That elevated ceramic bowl I mentioned earlier? It’s not just a classy water dish—it doubles as a paw-some food plate too. I love it when my meals are served in something that doesn’t bother my whiskers and lets me eat like the sophisticated predator I am. Two purrs up.
2. Litter Box & Unscented Litter
We cats take our bathroom business seriously. A clean, private, and well-placed litter box can make all the difference in how welcome we feel in your home.
Top Pick: Stainless Steel Litter Box with High Sides and Mat Included
Why I picked this: Stainless steel doesn’t absorb odor like plastic does, which keeps the bathroom fresher longer. It’s easier to clean, durable, and the high sides mean no more kicked-out litter. Bonus? It comes with a scoop and a mat.
Price when posted: $55.99
For kittens or newly rescued strays adjusting to indoor life, this is the safest and most welcoming way to introduce a clean routine.
Alternative (Self-Cleaning): Open Automatic Cat Litter Box
If your cat is a rescue or stray that’s used to a regular litter box, it’s best to start simple. Once they’re confident and feeling secure, upgrading to something automatic is better for everyone.
Why I picked this: open-design option is quiet, less intimidating, and still delivers a clean box every time. Cats will not use a dirty box—ever…and you never have to scoop again.
Price when posted: $169.99
Litter Suggestions:
- PrettyLitter – Great for rescues or new cats so you can monitor our health from the start. PrettyLitter changes color if something might be wrong with my health (think of it like built-in diagnostics). They’re also crystal-clear and, well, pretty—Minka approves of pretty things. Price when posted: $31.12
- Purina Tidy Cats Free & Clean Lightweight Litter – Low dust and unscented, which is perfect for cats with allergies (and let’s be honest, most of us hate strong smells and dusty paws). This is our regular litter. Price when posted: $19.98
3. Cat Bed
I need a cozy retreat. Even though I might sleep on your pillow, give me options.
Top Pick (Window Perch): Comfy Cat Window Sill Bed
Why I picked this: No drilling required! Elevated lounging to bird watch or to sunbathe—need I say more? This perch hooks securely onto deep window sills and supports up to 40 lbs. It moves easily from window to window.
Price when posted: $29.99
Don’t have many views? We still love a cozy elevated spot or one to hide in.
Alternative: Kitty City Large Stackable Grey Condo
Why I picked this: It’s stackable, easy to assemble, and perfect for one or several cats. I can nap tucked away in the dark or lounge confidently on the top tier to survey my kingdom. Cozy, clever, and multitasking—just like me.
Price when posted: $92.81
4. Cat Scratcher
Scratching is non-negotiable. It keeps my claws healthy and saves your furniture.
Top Pick: Nekosan Cat Scratcher House
Why I picked this: It’s modern, sturdy, and doubles as a fun hideout or lounging nook. It’s like a mansion for scratching, climbing, and curling up.
Price when posted: $27.99
Alternative (Budget-Friendly): Reversible Wave Cat Scratcher Lounger
Why I picked this: It’s sleek, under $10, and doubles as a lounger. Plus, it’s reversible so you get more scratch for your buck.
Price when posted: $9.99
5. Cat Brush
I look good naturally, but a little grooming keeps my coat glossy and your house less hairy. Plus, regular brushing helps prevent those nasty hairballs we all pretend don’t exist.
Top Pick: Swihauk Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush
Why I picked this: The soft bristles feel amazing and are safe on my skin, and the self-cleaning button makes tidying up a breeze. Makes me feel like I’m getting ready for the catwalk—whether it’s morning stretches or moonlit zoomies.
Price when posted: $14.98
Alternative: Takavu Double-Sided Boar Bristle Cat Brush
Why I picked this: Double sided! One side smooths and shines, the other brushes out the dust and dander. Natural bristles make me feel like I’m getting a spa treatment. Let’s be honest, I love a good shine before strutting into the living room like it’s a runway.
Price when posted: $15.99
6. Collar
Even indoor cats make a break for it. My adopted brother, Gold, tries it all the time. A breakaway collar with an ID tag is essential in case your feline decides to explore the world beyond the window.
Top Pick: Reflective AirTag Collar for Cats
Why I picked this: FIND ME! This is probably the only way to keep us truly connected. Many cats never get found again especially if they aren’t microchipped. If I’m indoor-outdoor or known to be a sneaky escape artist, this is a must. It comes with an Apple AirTag holder for tracking, plus soft padding and a breakaway design for safety.
Price when posted: $9.90
AirTag: Apple AirTag 1-Pack — great for tracking if I ever go on an unexpected adventure.
Price when posted: $24.95
Alternative (with AirTag): Breakaway Collar with Soft Padding (Charcoal Black)
Why I picked this: This one is durable, softly padded, high-visibility, and releases quickly if I get stuck somewhere. No bells, please. I don’t need to hear myself jingle with every step—and I certainly don’t want my prey hearing me either. A silent collar keeps me feeling safe, stealthy, and at ease.
Price when posted: $14.97
Please remember to get the custom tag which is $5.98 at time of post.
7. Toys
Keep me sharp. Keep me entertained. Laser toys, crinkle balls, or feather wands. Remember that with a wand, I like a slow tease before I pounce!
Top Pick: Yeowww! Yellow Banana Catnip Toy
Why I picked this: This toy satisfies my inner predator. It’s sturdy, perfectly shaped to bite and bunny-kick, and stuffed with high-quality catnip. A must-have for any cat looking to pounce, chew, and not bite YOU.
Price when posted: $6.99
Another Top Pick – that’s right!: AILUKI 35 PCS Cat Toys Variety Pack
Why I picked this: keep us curious and help figure out what toys we love. This 35-piece set includes a collapsible tunnel, feather wands, mice, crinkle balls, and even a cat dancer (which almost all cats go wild for). It’s a jackpot of entertainment in one bundle.
Price when posted: $13.29
8. Food & Treats
Dry Food: IAMS Proactive Health Adult Sensitive Digestion & Skin Dry Cat Food with Turkey, 6 lb. Bag
Why I picked this: IAMS has been great for both of us cats. It’s one we both like—trust me, it’s rare for two cats to agree on anything. It’s easy on our tummies and tastes great.
Price when posted: $16.97
Wet Food: IAMS Perfect Portions Adult Wet Cat Food Paté Variety Pack
Why I picked this: Even picky cats like us enjoy the variety. It’s nice having a new flavor each day—after all, who wants to eat the same thing every day? Price when posted (48 servings): $29.99
Treats: Purina Friskies Natural Cat Treats, Party Mix Natural Yums With Wild Caught Tuna
Why I picked this: A tasty treat with real tuna and added nutrients. Crunchy, flavorful, and hard to resist.
Price when posted: $8.48
9. Carrier
Top Pick: Vceoa Soft-Sided Cat Carrier (17.5x11x11 Inches)
Why I picked this: Comfy, breathable, and easy to get me in and out! Whether you’re taking me to the vet or grandma’s house, this carrier makes the trip feel less scary. It’s soft-sided, lightweight, and fits cats up to 16 lbs with room to curl up.
Price when posted: $21.99
Note: No alternative here. Most cats (including me) loathe the hard plastic carriers. They’re loud, clunky, and not nearly as breathable or easy for you to get us in and out of. Trust me, soft-sided is the way to go.
🐾 That’s a Wrap (and a Tail Flick)
Thanks for reading, human. If you made it this far, you’re clearly serious about giving your new feline friend the royal welcome they deserve. I, Minka, am deeply impressed. And possibly considering blessing your keyboard with a nap.
Remember—every cat is different. Some of us are picky, some of us are clingy, and some of us will knock your drink over just because. But with the right essentials, you’ll be ready for all our moods, zoomies, and snuggles.
Now go forth and prepare—with love, snacks, and a cozy spot by the window.
And if you’re ever unsure, just remember: love, patience, and a few good snacks go a long way. 🐾
Meow for now – it’s nap time!
GOLD & MINKA 
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