The Ultimate Guide for Preparing for a New Cat
Written by: Pacagen Team
Reviewed by: David Zhang, PhD
David is an immunologist, bioengineer, and a scientific advisor at Pacagen.
Bringing a cat into your home is exciting, but it's not something to rush. The right preparation helps ensure your cat settles in smoothly and saves you a lot of stress. Here is a practical guide covering how to find an ethical cat breeder, how to prepare for a new cat, and how to manage unexpected allergies before or after getting cats. As a bonus, we’ve included a handy new cat shopping list just for you.
How to find an ethical cat breeder
If you decide to buy a cat instead of adopting, finding an ethical cat breeder is crucial. Avoid backyard breeders and kitten mills by doing thorough research.
Look for breeders who prioritize health, temperament, and responsible breeding practices. They should willingly answer your questions, show you where the cats are raised, and provide health certificates and vaccination records. Ethical breeders often have a waitlist, and they’ll want to vet you just as much as you’re vetting them — this is a good sign.
Make sure you check online reviews, ask for references, and make sure they follow local regulations. A red flag? Anyone willing to sell you a kitten without asking about your experience, home setup, or expectations.
How to prepare for a new cat
Before your cat arrives, set up a dedicated space. This doesn’t have to be fancy — a quiet room with a litter box, food and water dishes, scratching post, and cozy bed will do. Cats appreciate having their own territory at first, especially in a new environment.
Put away electrical cords, remove toxic plants, and secure fragile items in the house. It’s also smart to block off spaces where a cat could hide and get stuck, like behind appliances or inside furniture.
Bring in other pets gradually if you already have them. Keep your new cat separated for the first few days to allow them to adjust to the sounds and smells of the household. Then, use short, supervised visits to introduce them to resident pets
Some ways to manage allergies before getting cats
Even if you or someone in your family has mild allergies, you may still be able to live happily with a cat, but preparation is key.
Start by spending time with cats before bringing one home. Consult your friends who have cats or volunteer at a shelter to gauge your reaction. If any of the symptoms are manageable, talk to your doctor about allergy medications or treatments.
At home, invest in a good air purifier with a HEPA filter, and vacuum frequently using a machine with a HEPA system. Wash hands after handling the cat and consider keeping certain areas, such as bedrooms, off-limits. The occasional use of bathing or wiping down your cat with vet-approved wipes can also help reduce allergens in cats. Use Pacagen's Cat Allergen Neutralizing Spray to directly eliminate up to 98% of active cat allergens.
New cat shopping list
To make your cat’s arrival smooth, have these essentials ready:.
- Litter box & litter: One per cat, plus one extra.
- Food & water bowls: Preferably stainless steel or ceramic.
- Cat food: Ask the breeder or shelter what the cat is currently eating to avoid stomach upset.
- Scratching post or pad: Save your furniture!
- Toys: Wand toys, balls, and interactive puzzles help prevent boredom.
- Bedding: A soft bed or blanket in a quiet spot.
- Carrier: For safe transport to and from the vet.
- Brush & nail clippers: Even short-haired cats benefit from brushing.
Bonus Tips
- Schedule a vet check-up soon after bringing your cat home.
- Microchip your cat and register your contact info.
- Take it slowly, it can take days or even weeks for a cat to fully settle in. Be patient and let them come to you according to their terms.
Final Thoughts
Preparing for a new cat goes beyond excitement — it’s about setting the stage for a lifelong bond. By learning how to prepare for a new cat, how to manage allergies before getting cats, and how to find an ethical cat breeder, you are giving yourself and your future cat the best possible start. Using the right supplies on your new cat shopping list and a little patience, you'll soon have a happy, healthy feline companion in your home.