After a few days in your home, your cat will likely start settling into new surroundings. It's time to start thinking about long-term care and making sure you're prepared for a long, happy life together. Here are some basics to get you started in the first month.
The right bedding for beauty sleep. Cats can sleep up to 18 hours a day, so creating the right conditions for your new cat is important.
Typical toys. Good toys for cats are easy to find and widely available at pet specialty stores. Ask your veterinarian for specific recommendations to help determine the best toys for your specific cat.
Safe on the go. Cat carriers are the safest, most comfortable way to travel. Before hitting the road, take time to familiarize your cat with the carrier by storing toys in it or making it a cozy place for a nap inside your home.
Proper identification. Always have an ID tag and proper registration information attached to your cat's collar (rabies, license, etc.). A collar should fit with some slack but not so loose that it slips over your cat's head. Allow two finger-widths of space between the neck and collar.
Laws of the litter box. For single cat homes, you need at least two litter boxes for easy accessibility - one for each floor of your home. A home with multiple cats requires one more litter box than the total number of cats. The litter box should be at least 1½ times the length of your cat and once placed shouldn't be moved to different locations. Please note that not all cats like litter box covers or liners.
SOURCE: Hill's Pet Nutrition "The Guide for Lifelong Health" ©2008
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