The Cat Owner’s Manual

I have over 35 years of experience as a cat and kitten owner. The following covers everything I’ve learned during over three decades of feline ownership. I currently have 11 cats.

I am not a vet nor do I offer medical advice. Please visit your vet with concerns.

Before or shortly after picking up kitty — A carrier, litter box and litter, and food. That will get you through the first few days.

Arriving home — For most cats and kittens, arriving in a new home can be overwhelming. It’s a new space, with new smells, new people, and possibly new animals. It may be best to keep the kitty in a smaller area, like a bathroom, for the first couple of days. This ensures kitty doesn’t hide where you cannot find him or, and, that s/he is not disruptive during the night. Visit the kitty often to play and cuddle.

Food — It is ideal to feed your kitty both wet and dry food. Wet food gives the kitty more moisture and dry food is good for snacking throughout the day, as it stays good for longer.

You may want to try a couple of different kinds of food to see what your kitty likes and what fits into your budget. You can make wet food last longer by stirring in some water when you are serving it to your kitty. I have tried many foods but find myself coming back to Fancy Feast.