Complete Beginner's Guide to Keeping a Cat

Cats are beloved pets known for their independent and free-spirited nature. Understanding the basics of cat care ensures a comfortable life for both cat and owner. Here is everything you need to know before welcoming your first cat.

Pre-Arrival Preparations

Have these items ready before bringing a cat home:

• Cage (recommended but not required): Provides a safe space during the adjustment period
• Litter box and litter: Ideally one per cat plus one extra. Experiment with litter types your cat prefers
• Food and water bowls: Ceramic or stainless steel is most hygienic
• Cat tree and scratching posts: Essential for exercise and satisfying the scratching instinct
• Carrier bag: Required for trips to the vet

Litter Training

Cats instinctively use sandy areas for elimination, making litter training much easier than with dogs.

• Place the cat in the litter box and gently guide their front paws in a digging motion
• Take the cat to the litter box after meals and after waking up
• Clean the litter box daily (many cats refuse to use a dirty box)
• If the box is dirty, the cat may find alternative spots

Feeding Basics

• Kitten stage (under 1 year): High-protein kitten formula, 3-4 times daily
• Adult stage (1-7 years): Adult cat food twice daily. Mixing in wet food helps with hydration
• Senior stage (7+ years): Switch to senior cat food. Many are formulated for kidney health
• Hydration: Cats naturally drink little water. Supplement with wet food or automatic water fountains

Setting Up the Indoor Environment

Cats love high places. Create an environment with cat trees and accessible shelving.

• Vertical space: Cat trees are essential; at least 150 cm tall is recommended
• Hiding spots: Cats need secluded resting places. Boxes and tunnels work well
• Scratching posts: Place in multiple locations to reduce the risk of furniture damage
• Safety measures: Install window screens, remove toxic plants, and block narrow gaps

Health Management

• Vaccinations: Annual feline triple vaccine
• Spaying/neutering: Recommended at 6-8 months. Helps prevent mammary tumors and urinary diseases
• Heartworm prevention: Cats can also contract heartworm (especially outdoor cats)
• Regular checkups: Annual or semi-annual health screenings

Benefits of Buying from a Breeder

Bri-Choku features breeders of many popular breeds including Scottish Folds, Munchkins, and Ragdolls. You can verify parent cat information and breeding conditions before welcoming a kitten with confidence.