Best Cat Accessories for New Owners

Introduction

Congratulations on your new feline family member! Bringing a cat into your home is an exciting experience, but it also comes with responsibilities. Setting up your home with the right cat accessories ensures your new companion has everything they need to feel safe, comfortable, and happy.

As a new cat owner, you might feel overwhelmed by the seemingly endless array of cat products available. From basic necessities to fun extras, the choices can be bewildering. The good news is that you don’t need to buy everything at once. Starting with the essentials and building your collection over time is perfectly fine.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the must-have cat accessories for new owners, plus some wonderful extras that can make life better for both you and your cat. We’ll focus on quality, value, and what actually makes a difference in your cat’s daily life.

Essential Cat Accessories

Let’s start with the absolute essentials. These are the items you need before bringing your cat home.

1. Litter Boxes

A clean, appropriately-sized litter box is fundamental to your cat’s wellbeing and your home’s hygiene. For more litter box options, see our best cat litter guide.

What to Look For:

• Size: Your cat should be able to turn around comfortably inside
• For large or senior cats, choose boxes with low entry sides
• Consider covered boxes if your cat prefers privacy
• Quality matters. Cheap boxes can retain odors and be difficult to clean

Top Picks:

• PetSafe ScoopFree Self-Cleaning Litter Box - Advanced self-cleaning system
• IRIS USA Top Entry Cat Litter Box - Reduces litter scatter
• Omega Paw Rolling Litter Box - Easy cleaning without scooping

How Many Do You Need? The general rule is one litter box per cat, plus one extra. If you have two cats, that’s three boxes. This prevents territorial issues and ensures your cat always has a clean option.

2. Quality Cat Food and Treats

Nutrition is the foundation of your cat’s health, so choosing quality food is one of the most important decisions you’ll make.

What to Look For:

• Real meat should be the first ingredient
• Avoid foods with excessive fillers (corn, wheat, soy)
• Appropriate for your cat’s life stage (kitten, adult, senior)
• Consult your veterinarian for specific recommendations

Top Picks:

• Purina Pro Plan (various life stages)
• Hill’s Science Diet (veterinarian recommended)
• Blue Buffalo (quality ingredients)

3. Food and Water Bowls

While you can use any shallow dish, quality cat bowls can enhance your cat’s eating experience.

What to Look For:

• Shallow dishes are easier for cats to eat from
• Ceramic or stainless steel are more sanitary than plastic
• Consider raised feeders for large or senior cats
• Separate water and food dishes

Top Picks:

• Dr. Cocker’s Ceramic Cat Bowls - Easy to clean, attractive design
• Catit Triple Feeding Station - Includes water fountain compatibility
• elevatedFeeder for Cats - Reduces neck strain

4. A Quality Cat Carrier

You’ll need a carrier for vet visits, grooming appointments, and any travel.

What to Look For:

• sturdy construction with good ventilation
• Easy to clean
• Appropriate size for your cat (they should be able to stand and turn around)
• Safe closures

Top Picks:

• Sherpa Original Deluxe Pet Carrier - Airline approved
• Amazon Basics Portable Pet Carrier - Affordable and practical
• Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed - Comfortable and safe

5. Scratching Posts and Scratching Surfaces

Scratching is an essential feline behavior. Providing appropriate outlets saves your furniture. For detailed reviews, see our best cat scratching posts guide.

What to Look For:

• Tall enough for your cat to stretch fully (at least 30 inches)
• Stable enough not to tip over when scratched
• Various textures (sisal, cardboard, carpet)
• Multiple locations around your home

Top Picks:

• cat trees with scratching surfaces
• PetFusion Ultimate Cat Scratcher - Eco-friendly cardboard
• Pioneer Planet sisal Cat Scratching Post - Durable sisal rope

Comfort and Rest

Cats sleep for most of the day, 16 to 20 hours! Providing comfortable resting spots is essential.

6. Cat Beds

Every cat deserves a cozy spot to curl up and rest.

What to Look For:

• Soft, washable materials
• Enclosed beds appeal to many cats (they like feeling secure)
• Heated beds can comfort senior cats or those with arthritis
• Place beds in quiet, warm locations

Top Picks:

• K&H Thermo-Kitty Bed - Self-warming or heated option
• Frisco Shag Cat Bed - Ultra-soft and cozy
• Pet Magasin Donut Cat Bed - Classic round design

7. Cat Trees and Condos

Cat trees provide vertical space, scratching surfaces, and private retreats.

What to Look For:

• Appropriate height for your ceiling and your cat’s abilities
• Multiple levels for climbing and exploring
• Stable construction
• Scratching surfaces included

Top Picks:

• Go Pet Club Cat Tree - Great value with multiple levels
• Furhaven Cat Tree - Various styles and price points
• Feandrad Cat Tree - Modern design with hideaway spots

8. Window Perches

Cats love watching the world outside. Window perches let them safely enjoy the view.

What to Look For:

• Sturdy brackets that attach securely to windowsills
• Weight capacity appropriate for your cat
• Removable, washable covers

Top Picks:

• K&H Window Mounted Cat Perch - Suction cup installation
• Cat阳台 Window Perch - Large, sturdy platform
• Arm & Hammer Window Cat Perch - Easy installation

Entertainment and Enrichment

Keeping your cat mentally stimulated prevents boredom and behavioral problems. For more toy recommendations, see our best cat toys guide.

9. Interactive Toys

Interactive play strengthens your bond with your cat and provides exercise.

What to Look For:

• Feather wands for interactive play sessions
• Laser pointers for aerobic exercise (always end with a catchable toy)
• Puzzle feeders for mental stimulation

Top Picks:

• Cat Feather Teaser Wand - Simple but irresistible
• SmartyKat Skitterer Catnip Mouse - Attracts attention
• PetSafe TicTatToe Rotating Cat Toy - Electronic variety

10. Independent Play Toys

Toys your cat can play with on their own are important for when you’re busy.

What to Look For:

• Balls with interesting movements or sounds
• Toys with catnip for added attraction
• Electrical toys that move on their own

Top Picks:

• SmartyKat Boogie Pet - Self-moving toy
• Catit Senses 2.0 Digger - Slow-paced ball track
• Trixie Pet Activity Center - Multiple interactive elements

Grooming Supplies

Starting a grooming routine early helps your cat accept grooming throughout their life.

11. Brushes and Combs

Regular brushing reduces shedding and hairballs while strengthening your bond. For the best brushes for your cat’s coat type, see our best cat brushes guide.

What to Look For:

• Appropriate for your cat’s coat type
• For long-haired cats: slicker brushes and wide-tooth combs
• For short-haired cats: bristle brushes or rubber mitts

Top Picks:

• Safari Slicker Brush - Excellent for all coat types
• Hertzko Self Cleaning Slicker Brush - Easy cleanup
• Furminator deshedding tool - For heavy shedders

12. Nail Clippers

Regular nail trimming prevents overgrown nails and protects your furniture. For recommended nail clipper options, see our best cat nail clippers guide.

What to Look For:

• Scissor-style clippers are easiest for beginners
• Sharp blades for clean cuts
• Ergonomic handles for comfort

Top Picks:

• Safari Professional Nail Trimmer - Quality construction
• Esendizle Cat Nail Clippers - Beginner friendly

Health and Wellness

Some accessories support your cat’s health beyond basic nutrition.

13. Cat Carrier for Vet Visits

Already mentioned but worth emphasizing. A quality carrier is essential for safe transport.

14. Cat Toothbrush and Toothpaste

Dental disease is common in cats. Starting a dental care routine early prevents problems. For comprehensive dental care tips, see our cat dental care guide.

What to Look For:

• Finger brushes for easier application
• Enzymatic toothpaste formulated for cats (never use human toothpaste)

Top Picks:

• Petrodex Enzymatic Toothpaste for Cats - Tasty and effective
• Cat Toothbrush - Soft-bristled for comfort

15. First Aid Kit

Being prepared for minor injuries or illnesses is important.

What to Include:

• Styptic powder for nail bleeding
• Gauze and bandages
• Saline solution for wound cleaning
• Digital thermometer
• Emergency contact numbers for your vet

Technology and Convenience

Modern cat accessories include some amazing technology that makes cat parenting easier.

16. Automatic Feeders

Automatic feeders ensure your cat gets fed on schedule, even when you’re away.

What to Look For:

• Reliable timing mechanism
• Battery backup in case of power outages
• Portion control settings
• Easy to clean

Top Picks:

• PETLIBRO Automatic Cat Feeder - Feature-rich option
• Cat C200 Automatic Feeder - Camera included
• Wopet Automatic Pet Feeder - Affordable and reliable

17. Cat Water Fountains

Many cats prefer running water. Fountains encourage hydration, which is important for urinary tract health.

What to Look For:

• Quiet pump operation
• Easy to disassemble and clean
• Replaceable filters
• Appropriate size for your household

Top Picks:

• Catit Flower Fountain - Multiple flow settings
• Drinkwell Pagoda - Ceramic, stylish option
• PETLIBRO Water Fountain - Large capacity

18. Pet Cameras

Pet cameras let you check on your cat and even interact with them when you’re away.

What to Look For:

• Clear video quality
• Two-way audio so you can hear and speak to your cat
• Treat dispensing capability
• Night vision for low-light monitoring

Top Picks:

• Furbo Dog Camera - Includes treat tossing (works for cats too)
• Paw life Pet Camera - Affordable with essential features
• Wyze Cam - Budget-friendly with basic features

Nice-to-Have Extras

Once you have the essentials, these additional items can enhance your cat’s quality of life:

19. Cat Gyms and Tunnels

What We Love:

• Provide excellent exercise opportunities
• Satisfy natural hunting and ambush instincts
• Many cats love zooming through tunnels

Top Picks:

• Catit Play Toy Tunnel - Multiple expandable tunnels
• GoPet Cat Exercise Wheel - For very active cats

20. Baby Gates

What We Love:

• Control your cat’s access to certain areas
• Keep cats away from hazardous rooms or items
• Useful for introducing cats to new spaces gradually

21. identification Tags and Microchips

What We Love:

• Essential for safety, even for indoor cats
• Microchips provide permanent identification
• Collars with ID tags offer visible identification

Shopping Tips for New Cat Owners

Start with Essentials: Don’t feel pressured to buy everything at once. Get the basics first and add items as needed.

Quality Over Quantity: A few well-made items last longer than many cheap ones.

Consider Your Space: Make sure accessories fit appropriately in your home.

Think Long-Term: Choose items that will work as your cat ages.

Watch for Sales: Many pet stores have regular sales. Stock up on essentials when prices are good.

Building Your Collection Over Time

You don’t need everything on day one. Consider this approach:

Week One: Litter box, food and water bowls, basic food, scratching post, bed, carrier, a few toys

Month One: Add grooming supplies, more toys, window perch, cat tree

Ongoing: Upgrade and add based on your cat’s individual needs and preferences

Conclusion

Setting up your home with the right cat accessories is an exciting part of welcoming a new feline family member. While the list of potential purchases can seem endless, focusing on the essentials first and building from there makes the process manageable.

Remember that every cat is an individual with unique preferences. What works perfectly for one cat may not suit another. Pay attention to your cat’s reactions and adjust your accessory collection based on their specific likes and needs.

The most important accessory of all? Your time, attention, and love. No amount of expensive gear replaces the value of quality time spent with your cat.

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