8 Essential Tips for New Cat Owners
Thinking about getting a cat? Cute idea. But before you rush out to adopt the fluffball of your dreams, let’s have a little reality check.
Cats are amazing—funny, weird, affectionate (when they feel like it), and ridiculously entertaining. But they also come with quirks that can leave first-time owners saying, “Wait, why didn’t anyone warn me about this?”
Here are eight things you absolutely need to know before bringing a cat into your life.
1. Your House Will Never Be the Same
Cats are tiny, but their impact is massive. They’ll climb on shelves, knock things over, and squeeze into places you didn’t know existed. That “no cats on the counter” rule? Yeah, good luck with that.
Pro tip: Secure fragile items, keep plants out of reach, and accept that your cat is now your interior decorator. (Their preferred style is called “chaotic neutral.”)
2. Litter Boxes Are Non-Negotiable
Cats are usually great about using the litter box—if you keep it clean. Ignore it, and suddenly your carpet becomes a “backup option.”
What you need to know:
- One box per cat, plus one extra (yes, even if you live in a small space)
- Scoop daily, deep-clean weekly
- Choose unscented litter—many cats hate perfumes
Basically, if the litter box stinks, your cat will find another bathroom. Spoiler: you won’t like where.
3. Scratching Isn’t Bad Behavior
Cats scratch. It’s not “naughty”—it’s instinct. Scratching sharpens their claws, stretches their muscles, and marks their territory.
Your job? Give them acceptable places to do it.
- Invest in scratching posts (tall ones, not the mini ones that tip over)
- Try cardboard scratchers—they’re cheap and most cats love them
- Redirect scratching gently; don’t punish
FYI, your couch will still take some damage. Consider it “custom cat detailing.”
4. Cats Need More Than Just Food and Water
People think cats are independent, and sure, they don’t need constant attention like some dogs. But that doesn’t mean you can ignore them. Cats need mental and physical stimulation to stay happy.
Ways to keep them entertained:
- Daily play sessions (wand toys, laser pointers, chase games)
- Puzzle feeders for mental enrichment
- Cat trees or shelves for climbing and lounging
A bored cat is a destructive cat. Translation: hide your toilet paper rolls.
5. Health Care Isn’t Optional
Cats may act tough, but they’re actually masters at hiding illness. By the time you notice something’s wrong, it might already be serious.
Health basics:
- Schedule yearly vet checkups (twice yearly for seniors)
- Keep up with vaccinations and parasite prevention
- Spay/neuter—seriously, don’t skip this
- Watch for subtle changes (less appetite, hiding more, peeing outside the box)
And yes, cats get expensive at the vet. Pet insurance? Worth considering.
6. Not All Cats Are Lap Cats
Some cats are cuddly lovebugs. Others act like you’re their unpaid servant. Most fall somewhere in between.
What this means for you:
- Don’t expect every cat to want constant cuddles
- Respect their boundaries—forcing affection = scratches
- Let them come to you (cats love thinking it was their idea)
If you dream of a snuggly lap cat, great—but be prepared that your new feline roommate may prefer head scratches on their terms only.
7. Cats Can Live a Long Time
Adopting a cat isn’t a short-term fling—it’s a 15–20 year commitment. Yep, that tiny kitten might still be ruling your house when you’re well into your next decade of life.
Think ahead:
- Can you commit long-term financially?
- What if you move, have kids, or change jobs?
- Who will take care of your cat if you travel?
Cats aren’t accessories—they’re family. Adopting one means sticking around for the whole ride.
8. Prepare for the Weirdness
Cats are… strange. They’ll zoom around at 3 a.m. for no reason, knock water glasses off tables just to watch them fall, and stare into corners like they see ghosts. It’s part of the charm.
Weird cat behaviors you’ll eventually accept:
- The midnight “crazy hour” zoomies
- Sitting in boxes that are clearly too small
- Bringing you “gifts” (bugs, socks, or worse)
- Watching you in the bathroom like a tiny, judgmental supervisor
Don’t try to make sense of it. Just enjoy the comedy show.
Final Thoughts
Cats are incredible companions, but they’re not low-maintenance accessories. They require care, patience, and a sense of humor.
Quick recap before you get a cat:
- Your home = their playground
- Litter box hygiene is a must
- Scratching is natural—provide options
- Play and enrichment keep them sane
- Health care is essential
- Affection happens on their terms
- Cats live a long time—commitment required
- Embrace the weirdness
Get these things right, and you’ll have a loyal, hilarious, sometimes aloof, but always entertaining furry roommate. IMO, life with a cat is never boring—and honestly, that’s the best part. 🙂
I’ve spent 10+ years in dog training, digging into what makes dogs (and their humans) tick. At Smart Dog Learning, I share my no-nonsense, fun approach to training so you can enjoy life with a well-behaved, happy pup—no boring lectures, just practical results 😉
