First Time Cat Owner Tips: A Beginner’s Guide 

Last Updated on 2 years by Jenny Sovann

Congratulations on joining the feline pet club. As a first time cat owner, you are probably here to learn how to treat them better or understand them better. In this comprehensive guide, we will look at some of the pointers for first-time cat owners. Being a Cat owner is always a rewarding experience. Cats make for great companions and it’s satisfying knowing that they are low-maintenance, inexpensive, entertaining, therapeutic, and interactive loving pets. 

Feeding, playing, and taking care of their litter is pretty simple, making them the ideal pets for people with a busy lifestyle. They are cheap to get. In fact, someone has probably offered you a kitten before making them relatively easy to get. Cats will always be around you, giving you a therapeutic experience when you are emotionally down.  

Finding the Right Cat 

Assuming you don’t have a cat yet, let’s look at how you can find the right one. There are several ways you can get a cat. From a pet shop to an online store, there are plenty of options to consider. Getting a breed of cat based on personality and interest is subjective and more or less dependent on an individual’s preference. Some cat breeds known for their adaptability are the Maine Coon, Ragdoll, Bengal, Abyssinian, Siamese, Oriental, and British Shorthair. Some other less-known breeds to consider include Shorthairs and Persian cats. Adopting a cat from a shelter is also another great idea. Not only will you be giving a new home to a feline friend, but you will also be reducing the number of homeless cats in the street.

It is important to establish a bond with them fast before adopting them. This will help us know whether they are feral or highly aggressive. It’s responsible to let a hissing cat be — remember “they have nine lives”, something we don’t. Finding the right cat demands one to do their due diligence, and proper research on a potential breed and cat’s behavior. 

Vet Care For Your Cat 

As resilient as cats are known to be from diseases, even with vaccination, they are still at risk of infections. Preventive care is vital and as a potential or new cat owner, getting your feline friend vaccinated is a must. Vaccinations range from protecting regular flu and feline distemper to potentially fatal feline infectious peritonitis. Of course, you also know how important it is to stop rabies. Getting booster shots after the initial vaccination is as crucial as getting the vaccination itself and hence some visits to the vet are relatively needed even if your friend seems healthy. Veterinarians suggest periodic check-ups to ensure the pet is in optimum health.

During these check-ups that we may think are irrelevant, the vet conducts physical exams to check for signs of dehydration, fever, ear mites, worms, lacerations, or other possible problems that may evade us. Overall, we as cat owners should be proactive when it comes to our pets’ health just as we would be vigilant with our own children’s health. Proper preventive care is essential to a healthy long life for your feline friend. 

Making Your Cat Feel At Home 

Hurrah! You got your cat; you made it healthy and now you just want a place your cat can “meow home”. Well, these steps are important to ensure their well-being and their happiness and not to forget your happiness. Importantly, let’s first start by making your home safe. We don’t have to explain why, but if we must, then know this “Your cat is at risk of harm or death”. Eliminate any potential hazards such as toxic plants and possibly chemicals from reach. This will ensure that your cat stays safe and free from harm. 

Provide adequate space. Cats are playful; therefore, they need to scratch and move around comfortably. Without adequate space, they can be very messy. Give the cat toys to play with. This can include things like scratching poles. So, if you don’t want your leather seats to be toys for your cat, you should give your cat something that it can play with from time to time. 

Nutrition is also essential, and giving your cat a healthy diet of cat food will ensure a healthy lifestyle. It is important to consult with your vet on the best food to give your cat. Also, set up a litter box that is cleaned regularly to prevent any health issues.  

By following these tips, you are creating a safe and comfortable home for your cat. 

Bonding and Grooming 

It is important to bond with your cat. It is the reason you got it or are planning to get it, all things considered. Having playtimes with your cat is a great way to bond and provide the much-needed exercise for your cat. As aforementioned, it’s great to get toys for your cat. You can get toys that encourage hunting and pouncing behaviors, something that all felines enjoy.  

Showing affection to your cats is yet another great thing. Cats enjoy affection and paying attention to their body language and behavioral response is important. Some cats enjoy being cuddled while others prefer to be pampered. If a cat hisses you probably should keep from pushing your one-sided attempt at affection and try another petting approach. Training the cat to adapt fun and playful techniques can help you and your cat understand each other better. In simple terms, using clicker training, you can teach your cat easy tricks such as giving you a high five. Spending quality time with your cat while in your leisure time is also a good way to bond. For example, you can just watch TV while your cat sits next to you or in the same room. 

Health and hygiene are also something that you should not take chances with your cat. Grooming your cat involves brushing your cat’s coat, nail care, preventive monitoring, and also some dental. Grooming could also turn out to be a bonding moment for you and your feline friend. 

Challenges Of Owning A Cat 

There are several challenges that as a cat owner, you need to know about. Here are some of them. 

If you are a frequent traveler, owning a cat can turn out to be difficult. You would have to make necessary arrangements for your cat to be taken care of if you are away. If you intend to travel with the cat, ensure to get the necessary documents and vaccines beforehand that may be required. 

Cats shed fur every day in small quantities and once or twice a year they may shed it in large quantities. Some people have allergies and hence you may have to clean your home often to ensure that your visitors are comfortable around you. 

Training the cats to reduce biting and scratching behaviors can turn out to be challenging for new cat owners who have no idea on how to go about it. It would take a considerable amount of time and effort to actually get the cat to change its behavior. 

Committing your time to their daily care, managing their litter, and managing their destructive behavior is not an easy task. It is vital that you know you really want to be committed to taking care of your feline friends. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What do first-time cat owners need to know?

Cats are animals that require daily care and affection. You have to feed them and provide them with water and a litter box. They need to be vaccinated and given regular veterinary check-ups. Inclusive of this, giving them toys, scratching posts, and climbing structures will make your lives both easier. 

When handling a cat for the first time what first steps should you take?

Approach the cat calmly and quietly. Allow the cat to come to you rather than forcing yourself on the cat. Pick the cat ensuring that you support its body properly and avoid startling it. Use a soothing voice and offer treats or toys. 

How do I prepare to be a cat owner?

Research different cat breeds before getting a cat. Purchase necessary supplies such as food, litter boxes, and toys. Set up a designated area for your cat to eat, sleep and use the litter box. Ensure that your home is safe for your new feline friend. 

What are the negatives of owning a cat?

Cats can be independent and aloof at times making it very hard for some owners to form a close bond with them. Some cats are destructive, and this can be frustrating for new cat owners to deal with them 

Is it a good idea to have a cat?

Yes, it can be great. Cats provide health benefits, such as reducing stress and anxiety. It is also important to remember that they require daily care and attention. It is important to consider your lifestyle before deciding if a cat is the right pet for you. 

What is so special about cats?

Cats are affectionate, low maintenance, clean and independent. If you have a busy schedule you don’t have to worry about them. They groom themselves and don’t need to be taken out for walks. Compared to dogs they are less complicated to have around. 

Which cat is the best pet?

It is a matter of personal preference. Some popular breeds you can choose from are Siamese, Persian cat, Main coon, and Bengal. It is important to research different breeds and spend time with cats before making a decision.