The PetMeds Everything Guide To Your New Cat
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine
While efforts are made to answer all questions as quickly as possible, if an immediate answer is required or if your pet is in need of urgent or emergency care, contact your pet's veterinarian immediately.
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine
You will receive an answer from Dr. Lindsay and our vet/tech team as soon as possible, usually the same day.
All answers are provided for informational or educational purposes only, and are intended to be a supplement to, and not a substitute for, the expertise and professional judgment of your pet's veterinarian.
It may be necessary to consult your pet's veterinarian regarding the applicability of any opinions or recommendations with respect to your pet's symptoms or medical condition.
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While efforts are made to answer all questions as quickly as possible, if an immediate answer is required or if your pet is in need of urgent or emergency care, contact your pet's veterinarian immediately.
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Just adopted, or preparing to adopt a new cat or kitten?
Though they’re known to be independent, your cat needs your help to stay happy and healthy for as long as possible. With a little luck and a whole lot of love, you’re in for a commitment of up to 20 years.
Ready to get started on the right paw?
Whether you’re welcoming your first cat ever, or it’s been a while since you’ve adopted a new cat or kitten, make sure you have all of their needs covered with our comprehensive, nose-to-tail guide to your new feline family member.
Your Cat’s First Day Home
On your cat’s first day home, they’ll be taking in a ton of new sights, sounds, and smells. It’s an exciting day of firsts - their first meal, their first sip of water, their first nap, and even their first trip to their litter box.
Cover your new cat’s needs with our handy checklist:
Download the FREE printable checklist!
Bringing Home Kitty
You’ll need to transport your cat home in a safe, secure carrier. While it may be tempting to cuddle your cat during the car ride home, transporting your cat in a carrier prevents them from distracting the driver or being injured in the event of an accident. To help keep your new kitty calm on the way home, apply a calming spray like Feliway to the inside of their carrier.
Feeding
Your cat needs a complete and balanced diet every day to stay healthy. Kittens need extra calories to support their growth, while adult cats may need a special diet to meet certain needs, like hairball control or weight management.
Learn More About Feeding Your New Cat or Kitten
Behavior
Get in tune with your new cat’s behavior to help them bond with you, your family, and other pets. You can learn the ins and outs of cat body language to help you meet their needs and get ahead of problem behaviors like chewing and scratching.
Learn More About Your New Cat’s Behavior
Grooming
Cats are naturally clean animals, but they still need help with their hygiene. Trimming your cat’s nails, brushing their teeth, and grooming their coat all have important health benefits and should be relaxing, enjoyable bonding opportunities for you and your new cat.
Learn More About Grooming Your New Cat or Kitten
Health
Protect your cat’s well-being by keeping up with their health and care. Your veterinarian can help you determine what vaccinations, testing, and nutrition your cat will need for optimal wellness and longevity.
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