What do I need to prepare for my new cat's first year?
Prepare for a 12–18 year commitment with daily care, a 6–20 lb space, and a budget of $500–$1000.
Commitment Reality
You're in for a 12–18 year journey with your cat. They'll need 12–16 hours of sleep and 2–3 small meals a day. Plan for a space of 6–20 lb, depending on their breed, and be prepared for daily handling.
Cats are independent but territorial. They'll need a space of at least 6 square feet, with a litter box every 1–2 cats, plus one extra. Be ready for regular cleaning and adjustments to their environment.
- 12–18 year lifespan commitment
- 12–16 hours of sleep per day
- 2–3 small meals daily
- 6–20 lb space depending on breed
- 6 square feet of space per cat
- 1–2 litter boxes per cat, plus one extra
- Regular handling and interaction
One-Time Setup
Before your cat comes home, prepare the following items: a litter box, food and water bowls, a scratching post, a comfortable resting area, and a collar with ID tags.
Choose a litter box that's at least 18 inches long and 14 inches wide. Select a scratching post that's 30 inches tall to accommodate your cat's stretching needs.
- Litter box (18x14 inches)
- Food and water bowls
- Scratching post (30 inches tall)
- Comfortable resting area
- Collar with ID tags
Recurring Consumables
Expect to replace litter every 2–3 weeks, depending on the type and your cat's habits. Use 10–15 pounds of litter per box. Food and water should be changed daily.
Bedding should be replaced every 1–2 weeks. Opt for 2–3 cups of bedding per box to maintain cleanliness.
- Litter (10–15 pounds every 2–3 weeks)
- Food and water (changed daily)
- Bedding (2–3 cups every 1–2 weeks)
Ongoing Costs
Don't forget to budget for vet visits, which can range from $50–$100 per visit. Regular vaccinations and check-ups are essential. Also, consider the cost of spaying or neutering, which can be $200–$300.
Replacement equipment like litter boxes, scratching posts, and food bowls may be needed every 1–2 years. Plan for $50–$100 annually for these items.
- Vet visits ($50–$100 per visit)
- Vaccinations and check-ups
- Spaying or neutering ($200–$300)
- Replacement equipment ($50–$100 annually)
Are You Ready?
Before bringing your cat home, ensure you have the following: a safe, comfortable space, the necessary equipment, a consistent feeding schedule, and a plan for regular vet care.
Be prepared for the time commitment and the financial investment. Your cat will be a part of your life for years to come.
- Safe and comfortable space
- Necessary equipment (litter box, bowls, scratching post, etc.)
- Consistent feeding schedule
- Regular vet care
- Time and financial commitment
Keep reading about Cat: Cat care sheet
Related questions
How often should I clean the litter box?
Clean the litter box daily to maintain hygiene. Scoop waste and clumps at least once a day.
How much space does a cat need?
Cats need at least 6 square feet of space, with an additional 6 square feet per additional cat.
How much does it cost to spay or neuter a cat?
Spaying or neutering can cost between $200–$300, depending on the vet and location.
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.