Everything That a First-Time Cat Owner Needs

If you’re reading this, it’s likely that a cat has come into your life (or you’re on the precipice of adopting one). Perhaps you’re scrambling to check off your new cat checklist for all of the cat-care products your friend could possibly need. As a cat mom myself, I get it—really. You want to ensure that your fur baby feels safe and settled in their new home, that you’re prepared for whatever situations arise, and that you spend money wisely on the absolute best cat products.

I became a pet parent to Yam in 2019, a two-year-old tabby who my parents call my “ginger boyfriend” and later adopted a feisty, funny kitten, Soba—the two best decisions I’ve ever made. Though I’d grown up with a cat, Yam was the very first pet I’d ever owned by myself and, being the anxious person that I am, I sent my feline-owning friends a detailed questionnaire with questions like “What cat-cleaning products should I have on hand?” and “What are the cat toys that I absolutely need?” and “Do I really need a cat tree?”

Based on this wealth of knowledge, intense research and testing as a SELF commerce editor, and years of rooming with real, live animals, let me recommend the items I’ve found essential to have on hand when you bring home your new cat. From vacuums that combat pet hair to pet blankets to pet backpacks, these products from Amazon, Chewy, Cat Person, and more are on top of my new cat checklist—so that you can focus on bonding with your baby.

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