Cat Care

General Cat Care

Have you recently welcomed a feline friend into your home? Congratulations! Your new cat is sure to bring joy to your family. If you're considering adopting a cat, please visit your local shelter.

Read on for valuable tips for new cat owners and those looking to refresh their pet care knowledge.

Basic Care

Feeding

We recommend purchasing high-quality, brand-name kitten or cat food. Your veterinarian can assess your new cat or kitten and determine the best diet. Factors such as age, activity level, and health influence what and how much a cat should eat.

Cats need taurine, an essential amino acid for heart and eye health. Ensure the food you choose is balanced for your cat or kitten’s life stage and contains taurine. Always provide fresh, clean water and wash and refill your cat’s water bowls daily. Treats should comprise no more than 5-10% of the diet. Baby food can be given to a cat or kitten who refuses food or feels unwell, but read labels carefully to avoid onion or garlic powder, which can be toxic. Visit your veterinarian if signs of anorexia, diarrhea, vomiting, or lethargy persist for more than two days. For more information, check our pages on People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets and Cat Nutrition Tips.

Grooming

Most cats stay clean and rarely need baths, but regular brushing or combing is essential. Frequent brushing keeps your cat's coat clean, reduces shedding, and minimizes hairballs. Visit our Cat Grooming Tips page for more information.

Handling

To pick up your cat, place one hand behind the front legs and the other under the hindquarters. Lift gently. Never pick up a cat by the scruff of the neck or by the front legs.

Housing

Your pet should have a clean, dry place in your home to sleep and rest. Line your cat's bed with a soft, warm blanket or towel and wash the bedding often. Keep your cat indoors for their safety, as outdoor cats face risks from cars, other animals, and disease.

Identification

If your cat goes outdoors, ensure they wear a safety collar with an ID tag. A safety collar with an elastic panel allows your cat to break free if it gets caught. For both indoor and outdoor cats, an ID tag or implanted microchip can help ensure they are returned if lost.

Litter Box

All indoor cats need a litter box in a quiet, accessible location. In a multi-level home, one box per floor is recommended. Avoid moving the box, but if necessary, move it gradually. Scoop solid waste daily and wash the box with mild detergent weekly. Avoid using ammonia, deodorants, or scents, especially lemon, when cleaning. If your cat refuses to use the litter box, consult your veterinarian as it may indicate a medical condition. Visit our Litter Box Problems page for more information.

Scratching

Cats need to scratch to remove the old outer nail sheath and expose their sharp claws. Trim your cat’s nails every two to three weeks to keep them blunt. Provide a sturdy scratching post, at least three feet high, covered with rough material like sisal, burlap, or tree bark. Many cats also enjoy scratching pads.

Health

Your cat should see the veterinarian at least once a year for an examination and vaccinations, and immediately if they are sick or injured.

Spaying and Neutering

Spay female cats and neuter male cats by five months of age. 

Vaccinations

Your veterinarian will recommend vaccinations based on your cat's age and health. Visit our Pet Vaccinations page for more information.

Cat Supply Checklist

  • Premium-brand cat food
  • Food dish
  • Water bowl
  • Interactive toys
  • Brush
  • Comb
  • Safety cat collar with ID tag
  • Scratching post or scratching pad
  • Litter box and litter
  • Cat carrier
  • Cat bed or box with a warm blanket or towel