3 cat items you need now

Are you set to to add a new feline family member to your household?

Pet owners can help to ensure a smoother transition by preparing for the cat’s arrival ahead of time.

Besides the basics, including a litter box and litter, nutritious food, and interactive toys, here are three other items your cat will want:

1. Scratching post

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) said cats need to scratch. Doing so helps to remove the old outer layer of the claws. To that end, the organization recommends providing your feline with a scratching pad, or a sturdy scratching post, at least three feet high, and stable enough that it won’t wobble during use.

2. Identification

For those felines who are allowed outdoors, safety collars and ID tags engraved with their name and phone number are recommended. Additionally, for both indoor and outdoor cats, an implanted microchip can help ensure your cat is returned if he or she becomes lost, according to ASPCA.

3. Carrier

Cat carriers are key pieces of equipment, as it allows owners to transport their felines safely home from the shelter, as well as to and from vet appointments. The ASPCA recommends a carrier which is made of sturdy plastic and has a metal door rather than a soft-sided carrier. The carrier should be large enough for your cat to turn around in. Covering the carrier with a blanket during travel can help your cat feel more secure.

For more advice, ask the veterinarians from All Creatures Great and Small Veterinary Practice. The team at the full-service companion animal hospital can help with guiding you through the early stages of training, nutritional counseling, early disease detection and prevention, as well as any medical and surgical care that may become necessary during your pet’s lifetime.

All Creatures Great & Small : 1225 Warren Avenue : Downers Grove, IL 60515 : 630.852.0910 : https://www.downersgrovevet.com/