i need information on taking care of cats.?

Question

im 14 and hopeing to get a cat for christmas. i need information on how to take care of them and what to buy. could i jst use a box and a blanket for a bed? please help!!!

Answer 1

You need at least a sturdy plastic box about 2' x 1' and 6" tall, kitty litter, a kitty litter scoop, and a brush.
If you plan on having your kitty sleep on your bed it will not need a bed. When it is very little 8-10 weeks initially you may want to have her sleep in a cardboard box, with a towel folded as bed, so she does not fall out of bed.
You need to provide food and clean water daily. You can ask the breeder what the kitty has been eating so you can continue on the same diet and schedule.
You need to take the kitty to a vet for vaccinations and a check-up. Each year. So overall plan on spending at least $200 per year on vet/check-up, toys, and food/kitty litter, more if the kitty has any problems. I would recommend a male kitty and have him neutered when young per vet recommendations - the surgery is easier on them than on the females.

Get a few books on cats from the libary to learn more. You need to have a good idea on how to best potty tran your kitty.. usually not hard but you need to know basics. Please realize this is a long term commitment, maybe for 20 years. Is any one allergic to cats in your home? You don't want the heart ache to have to give the kitty away at sometime when it becomes inconvenient to anyone.

Answer 2

You'll need to buy a good-quality food (not the junk from the grocery store). You'll need a scratching post (maybe more than one), or a cat tree, and some toys (the Cat Aerobics toy is great). A litter box, litter, and a scoop. A cat brush would be good (I like the Zoom Groom), and a fine-toothed flea comb. Don't bother with a cat bed - a box and blanket is fine, although every cat I've ever had has preferred to just sleep on my bed. You'll need to make time every day to play with your cat, brush her, give her attention, and scoop out the litter box.

You will also need to make sure the cat gets regular veterinary care, including vaccinations, spaying or neutering, flea/parasite control, and unexpected illnesses or injuries. Have your parents agreed to vet care costs, or do you have a plan to pay for this yourself? If you adopt from a shelter, most will include spaying/neutering and initial vaccinations in the adoption fee, which can be a big help.

Answer 3

You'll need to buy a litter box, kitty litter, a cat collar with an ID tag incase he/she gets lost, plenty of toys, a cat bed (no a box will not work- get one from the pet store), cat food, and monthly flea treatment (use a brand like Frontline- things from the grocery store usually contain harmful chemicals which have killed hundreds of cats).

Answer 4

don't buy a cat bed, they never use them. They will sleep anything and in the weirdest positions and be perfectly content.

You will need a collar, cat food, water/food bowl, litter box, lots of litter, and a scratch post would be a good idea, and a few cat toys.

Cats are LOTS of fun! hope you get one!

Answer 5

Love your name!
No need to buy a bed as you never know if a cat will use it. Most won't.
All you need is a litter box, some string an little balls and friendlyness an understanding. Maybe some catnip
For food you are going to hear alot of conflicting and bad advice. You need to research. I treat diabetic cats and I will tell you that dry food is the pits for cats and canned foods without gravy is what is best as cats are obligate carnivores ie meat eaters. For treats use deli meat of chicken ann stuff like that, not the garbage sold. Best of luck and I know you'll be great with your cat!
http://www.catinfo.org/

Answer 6

oh i was in your position once. very exciting for you.

you will need:
litter box
litter box liners (optional, for easy clean up)
scooper
kitty wipes (to clean their paws, etc.)
2 bowls (for food and water)
high quality hard cat food
kitty bed
scratching post
toys
flea collar with info tag (only if this will be an outdoor cat)
brush
nail clipper (optional)
cat shampoo (optional)
carrying case (optional, for trips to the vet)

and last but not least, you should have local vet numbers.

Answer 7

you will need a scratch post,some toys like a ball.catnip mouse,you could do with a box but if you can afford a nice fur catbed,ask if you can have one for xmas.if you can pet insurance a good idea incase you have any medical promblems later.plus litter litter tray.

Answer 8

you will need to get cat toys and a litter box,litter,food bowl,water bowl,food,flea collar,and a cat bed.

Answer 9

You will need a pet carrier to tote your furry purry friend to and from the vet. Cats love cat nip, toy mice, and toy balls with bells they love to bat them around and chase them...

Hope you get your kitty.. please let us know.