What do I need to set up for a cat before it comes home?
Before welcoming a cat into your home, prepare for a 12–18 year commitment, dedicating 12–16 hours a day for care. Here's what you need to know.
Lifelong Commitment
Cats require a 12–18 year commitment, averaging 12–16 hours of care daily. Be prepared for regular handling and space considerations.
Choose a breed that fits your lifestyle; some cats are more independent, while others are more social. Consider your space and ability to provide the necessary attention.
Indoor cats typically live longer than outdoor cats, with an average lifespan of 12–18 years. This means planning for long-term care.
- 12–18 year commitment
- 12–16 hours of daily care
- Regular handling
- Space considerations
- Indoor vs. outdoor lifestyle
- Long-term care planning
One-Time Setup
Create a comfortable space for your cat with a litter box, food and water bowls, and a resting area.
Provide a litter box for each cat plus one extra, ensuring privacy and ease of access. A general rule is to have one box per cat plus one.
Select a litter box that fits your space and your cat's size, typically 24 inches long and 16 inches wide. This size ensures your cat can move comfortably.
- Litter box for each cat plus one extra
- Food and water bowls
- Resting area
- Privacy considerations
- Litter box size: 24x16 inches
- Space planning for litter box placement
Recurring Consumables
Regularly replenish litter, food, and bedding to maintain a clean and comfortable environment.
Expect to replace litter every 2–3 days, depending on the number of cats and their activity levels. This helps prevent odors and maintain hygiene.
Provide fresh water daily and replenish dry food as needed. Keeping fresh water available is crucial for your cat's health.
- Litter replacement every 2–3 days
- Fresh water daily
- Dry food replenishment as needed
- Regular litter box cleaning
- Hygiene maintenance
- Water bowl cleaning daily
Ongoing Costs
Remember to budget for recurring costs such as vet visits, vaccinations, and potential medical care.
Plan for annual vet check-ups and vaccinations, which are crucial for your cat's health. These visits typically occur once a year.
Be prepared for unexpected medical expenses, as cats can develop health issues over time. Having a savings plan is advisable.
- Annual vet check-ups
- Vaccinations
- Potential medical care
- Regular vet visits
- Health savings planning
- Emergency fund for medical expenses
Enrichment Activities
Cats are intelligent and need mental and physical stimulation. Provide toys, scratching posts, and climbing areas to keep your cat engaged.
Interactive toys, such as puzzle feeders, can be used to keep your cat's mind active. These should be introduced gradually.
Regular play sessions can help strengthen the bond between you and your cat. Aim for at least 15 minutes of playtime daily.
- Toys and scratching posts
- Puzzle feeders
- Regular play sessions
- Mental stimulation
- Physical activity
- Bonding through play
Keep reading about Cat: Cat care sheet
Related questions
How often should I clean the litter box?
Replace litter every 2–3 days and clean the box daily.
How much space does a cat need?
A general guideline is 7–10 square feet per cat.
How many bowls should I provide for my cat?
One food bowl and one water bowl per cat, plus one extra.
How often should I change the cat's bedding?
Replace bedding every 1–2 weeks or as needed.
What type of litter should I use?
Choose a litter that is dust-free and suitable for your cat's preferences.
How often should I clean the water bowl?
Clean the water bowl daily to maintain hygiene.
Not veterinary advice. This guide covers husbandry — housing, feeding, cleaning and handling. If your cat is injured, off food unusually long, or behaving abnormally, contact a veterinarian.