If you’re thinking about getting a cat or have just welcomed one into your home, congratulations! As a relatively new cat owner myself, I can tell you it’s a fun and rewarding journey. I’ve had my two cats for about two years now, and as someone who grew up with dogs, I never thought I’d be a cat person. But after my best friend adopted one, I was hooked. Now, I can’t imagine life without them. Cats are different from dogs in many ways, and there are a few important things every first-time cat owner should know.
Cats Aren’t Dogs—And That’s a Good Thing!
One of the first things I learned is that cats have unique needs, starting with their diet. Cats should never eat dog food because they cannot produce taurine, an essential amino acid crucial for heart, eye, and overall organ health. This is why an all-vegan diet is not suitable for cats—taurine is only found in animal-based foods. Another key difference is water intake. Cats don’t naturally drink as much water as dogs, making hydration a critical concern. Wet food is a fantastic way to help your cat stay hydrated and healthy.
If you’re looking for a good wet food option, check out this pâté cat food, which comes in a variety of flavors, so your cat doesn’t get bored. Cats can be finicky eaters, so keeping their food interesting is essential!
Water Fountains: A Hydration Hack for Cats
Cats are prone to urinary tract infections (UTIs) and bladder stones if they don’t get enough water. To encourage your cat to drink more, consider investing in a stainless-steel water fountain. It’s easier to clean and keeps bacteria at bay. Plus, this one comes with three replacement filters! Fresh, flowing water will entice your cat to drink more, helping to prevent health issues down the road.
The Importance of Proper Feeding Bowls
Did you know that cats can suffer from whisker fatigue? Their whiskers are extremely sensitive, and deep bowls can cause discomfort. Opt for shallow, wide bowls to make mealtime more comfortable. I found some adorable seasonal bowls at Marshalls, and they’ve been a hit with my cats. I also use an automatic feeder for dry food, which lets me control portion sizes and feeding times—even playing a recorded message of my voice when it dispenses food!
Watch Out for Toxic Houseplants!
Be mindful of the plants in your home. Some common houseplants, such as aloe, elephant ear, and English ivy, are toxic to cats. Always do your research before bringing new plants into your home to ensure your feline friend stays safe.
Litter Box Tips and Must-Have Accessories
Choosing the right litter and litter box can be overwhelming. I recommend Arm & Hammer clumping seal cat litter for great odor control, and a high-sided litter box to prevent messes. If you’re looking for a way to hide your litter box, Amazon and PetSmart have plenty of furniture solutions. Also, invest in a Litter Genie to keep your home smelling fresh.
Keep Your Cats Entertained with Toys
When it comes to cat toys, there’s something out there for every cat’s personality. My boy cat, for example, is full of energy and constantly needs stimulation. He’s the kind of cat who doesn’t just wait for playtime—he demands it! Sometimes he’ll bring me one of his toys, other times he’ll start meowing incessantly, and when he’s really feeling feisty, he’ll even try to stir up a little drama by “picking on” his sister cat. He’s full of life, always on the go, and constantly trying to engage us.
It can be challenging to keep up with him, especially when I’m in the middle of cooking dinner or handling something else around the house. But I’ve found that having toys he can play with on his own helps tremendously. Some of our favorite interactive cat toys have been lifesavers. These are toys that move or make noise without needing much help from me—perfect for when my hands are full, but he still needs his playtime.
Of course, I always make time to bond with him directly too. Playtime is a great way to strengthen our relationship. For him, it’s not just about chasing balls or jumping after feathers—it’s about spending time together and feeling connected. Sometimes the simplest toys can make the biggest difference. Believe it or not, one of his favorite toys is a rotini pasta noodle! He loves playing fetch with it, and it’s become a quirky but cheap way for us to bond. You never know what will strike your cat’s fancy!
For toys that are more traditional but always a win, lasers are a great option. Cats love to chase that little red dot. However, make sure you choose toys that are safe—thin strings or yarn can be dangerous if swallowed, so keep an eye on those.
Cats Love to Be Up High—Get a Cat Tree!
My boy cat isn’t just a playful guy, he’s also incredibly curious. He loves climbing to high places and observing everything around him. Like most cats, he’s happiest when he’s perched up high, looking out the window or sitting on his cat tree. Having a tall cat tree or window perch is essential for keeping him entertained and giving him a sense of control over his environment. Cats are natural hunters, and being able to look outside and watch birds, cars, or even bugs stimulate their mind and prevents boredom.
But it’s not just about giving them a good view—cat trees with built-in scratching posts are also great for protecting your furniture. My boy loves to scratch, and we all know how quickly that can turn into a disaster if they decide to use your new couch as their personal scratching post. Along with the cat tree, I’ve invested in some scratch-saving furniture protectors, which stick to my couch and have really saved it from his claws.
Having a mix of toys, scratching posts, and high perches keeps both of my cats happy and entertained, and it helps me balance their needs with my own busy schedule.
Toys, High Places, and Hidey-Holes: Finding Your Cat’s Personality
If your cat is anything like my boy, they might need more mental stimulation than you expect. Every cat is different, and part of the fun of being a first-time cat owner is learning what makes your feline friend tick. My boy cat is adventurous, curious, and full of energy. He’s always on the lookout for the next exciting thing to do, and I’ve learned that keeping a variety of toys around helps keep him from getting bored.
When cats get bored, that’s when bad behavior can creep in. Whether it’s scratching furniture, knocking things over, or picking fights with their fellow furry siblings, boredom is often the culprit. My girl cat is a bit more laid-back and independent, but even she needs her own playtime. Every cat’s personality is different, so take the time to figure out what your cat likes best. If you’re lucky, they might even bring you something fun—like a rotini pasta noodle—to join in the fun!
Don’t Forget the Love
Cats may seem independent, but they crave affection just as much as any other pet. My cats love to cuddle and follow me around the house. However, they decide when they want attention—it’s always on their terms! Respect their boundaries, and you’ll form a stronger bond with them over time.
I also recommend a pet camera if you’re away from home often. You can check in on your cats, talk to them, and even monitor their food and water intake.
A Few Last Tips for Allergies
If you’re allergic to cats like I am, there are ways to manage it. I vacuum daily, run an air purifier, and use cat wipes to reduce dander. Just be careful not to overuse them, as it can dry out your cat’s skin.
I could go on and on about my cats, but I’ll leave you with these tips to get you started. Owning a cat is such a joy, and I hope these tips help you on your cat ownership journey. Have fun and enjoy the love and companionship your new furry friend will bring!
Key Takeaways for First-Time Cat Owners:
- Cats need taurine in their diet and plenty of water to stay healthy.
- Invest in a stainless-steel water fountain to promote hydration.
- Use wide, shallow bowls to prevent whisker fatigue.
- Be cautious with houseplants and choose non-toxic options.
- Arm & Hammer litter and high-sided litter boxes are a game changer.
- Keep your cats entertained with interactive toys and cat trees.
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Written by guest blogger; Chelsea Hoyle
