Every cat owner needs a few basic supplies to keep their cat happy and healthy. These include the following: food, either dry, moist or canned; water; food and water dishes; a milk supplement for kittens; medications, vitamins and/or supplements as prescribed by your cat's veterinarian; and toys. If you cat is an indoor cat as opposed to an outdoor one, you'll also need a litter box, litter, and a bed or bedding. Other items that come in handy for indoor cats include a scratching post and live green plants such as oats. All cats, whether indoor or out, should also have a collar with an ID tag that has your cat's name as well as your name, address and telephone number, along with a leash and harness. A pet carrier is also often essential for transporting your cat to the veterinarian or elsewhere. The basic grooming supplies that you should have on hand include the following: a wire slicker brush and wide-tooth comb for longhaired cats or a bristle brush and fine-tooth metal comb for shorthaired cats; cat nail clippers; cotton balls and swabs; mineral oil; a cat or child's toothbrush; and pet toothpaste. Once you've got all those taken care of, you can always opt for a few luxury items like catnip, an enclosed outdoor are with cat-proof covering, or even some cat furniture. |