Daily Care2026-03-10Carelogy編集部
Cat Adoption Guide: Preparation & First Day Tips for New Owners
Everything you need to know before bringing a cat home: essential supplies, setting up the environment, and tips for a smooth first day.
Essential Supplies Checklist Before Bringing a Cat Home
Get everything ready before bringing your new cat home. Ideally, have supplies in place one week before adoption day.
Essential Supplies
- Litter box: One per cat plus one extra is ideal; start with a simple open-top design
- Cat litter: Clumping clay (bentonite) is the most widely accepted
- Food: Age-appropriate complete nutrition (kitten or adult formula)
- Food and water bowls: Ceramic or stainless steel; wide enough that whiskers do not touch the sides
- Carrier: Essential for vet visits and emergencies
- Scratching posts: Offer multiple textures — cardboard, sisal rope, carpet
Nice-to-Have Items
- Cat tree: Provides vertical exercise and a secure high perch
- [Water fountain](/en/columns/cat-water-fountain): Great for cats that prefer running water
- Brush: For grooming — a must for long-haired breeds
- Toys: Wand teasers, balls, mouse-shaped toys
- Hiding spots: Cardboard houses, covered shelves
[Safety checks](/en/columns/cat-indoor-safety) to complete
- Window and screen escape prevention
- Electrical cord covers
- Remove plants toxic to cats
- Pick up small items (rubber bands, string, thumbtacks)
The First Day: Helping Your Cat Adjust
A change of environment is highly stressful for cats. On the first day, prioritize your cat's comfort above everything else.
Arrival — First Few Hours
1. Designate a single room as the cat's safe space (do not open the entire home at once)
2. Set up a litter box, food, water, and hiding spots in that room
3. Open the carrier door and let the cat emerge on its own (never pull the cat out)
4. If the cat hides, leave it alone
What NOT to Do on Day One
- Crowd around the cat with the whole family
- Make loud noises or sudden movements
- Introduce other pets right away
- Chase the cat around for social media photos
Days 1-7 Schedule
- Days 1-3: Let the cat settle in one room; keep interaction gentle and minimal
- Days 4-7: As the cat gains confidence, gradually allow access to other rooms
- Week 2+: In multi-cat homes, follow the new cat introduction protocol
Every cat adjusts at its own pace. Shy cats may take a month or longer. Be patient and let the cat set the timeline.
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Post-Adoption Health Care Essentials
Schedule a veterinary visit early to get your new cat started on the right track.
Visit the Vet Within the First Week
- Full physical examination
- Fecal test for parasites
- FIV/FeLV testing — especially for rescued cats
- Confirm the vaccination schedule
Important Next Steps
- Microchip: In Japan, microchipping has been mandatory for cats from breeders and pet shops since June 2022
- [Spay/neuter](/en/columns/cat-spay-neuter): Recommended at 6-8 months of age
- Start [flea and tick prevention](/en/columns/cat-parasite-prevention): Essential for cats coming from outdoor environments
- Consider [pet insurance](/en/columns/cat-insurance): Early enrollment is recommended
Feeding Tips
- Initially feed the same food the cat was eating in its previous environment (sudden changes cause diarrhea)
- Transition to a new food gradually over 1-2 weeks
- Kittens need age-appropriate kitten formula
- Place food and water bowls apart (cats instinctively avoid water near their food)
Adoption marks the beginning of a new life together. The trust you build in the first few months forms the foundation for years of companionship.
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