Cat Furniture

Cats have several needs, most are not expensive, and some can be made from things you likely already have. Use the links below to jump ahead.

Scratching Post | Carrier | Litter Box | Food | Toys | Vet Care

Scratching Post

A scratching post is one of the most important thing you get a cat. Even outdoor cats often enjoy having a scratching post inside. A scratching post is ideally a vertical surface covered in sisal or other roughened rope. Natural tree bark could also work. The important thing is that the material feel nothing like any other surface in your home. Carpet scratching posts often cause problems as they feel just like your normal carpet.

I've had success with the cardboard scratching boxes. Once introduced to these my cats have not scratched anywhere but on that box. The boxes are made by gluing cardboard strips to each other, and the end result being the corrugated sides of the cardboard facing up for the cat to scratch on. An added bonus is it both replicates tree bark, and is like nothing else in your home.

Close-up of cardboard scratcher.

Carrier

A cat carrier is a very important item. Whenever your cat is going to the vet or to a boarder a carrier is necessary. A cardboard box can suffice for a very short time or in an emergency, but cats can get out or chew out of them very quickly. A good plastic carrier with at least one door is preferable. Some come with a second roof door, which is easier to insert an angry kitty into.

Litter Box

This is almost the single most important purchase for a cat owner. Even outdoor cats on occasion prefer to go inside, such as after a very heavy snowfall. The box should be large enough for the cat to fit inside easily, and low enough to make entering easy. Covered boxes are an idea, but cats often want to be able to see around when they are vulnerable. Another choice for concealment is a folding screen. Good places for the litterbox vary, with most being kept in a bathroom.

Cat litters now come in many varieties. Simple clay litter is still available, as is scoopable, flushible, recycled newspaper, pressed wood, or even absorbing crystals. The brand or type will depend on you or the cat. Most people want less dust with some odor control. Cats often prefer sandy types, as digging is easiest, but they are more apt to track them around the house. Those with dust allergies would do best to choose a low dust brand, and use a mask when cleaning the box, unless you are able to have someone else change it.

Food

Cat foods may all appear the same, but your cat probably has definite preferences. Generally dry food is better for teeth, though wet food often smells better (at least to cats.) Higher quality cat food is often better, as it will have more protein from meat sources. Cats are not vegetarians, and unlike dogs can not process vegetable proteins well. Look for high meat foods, and avoid as many preservatives as you can.

Toys

Cats will make toys out of anything. String, feathers and such are much more likely to be toys, though a paper ball is often appreciated. Another often used household object is the plastic that seals milk jug lids. Cats love these semicircle pieces of plastic. Store bought toys are fine as well, but watch out if you cat likes eating string or feathers. Avoid toys with pieces that would be very easy to chew off and swallow, that could become very expensive.

Cats don't mind if all their toys are ping pong balls and milk jug rings.

Vet Care

Cats need to have shots, and boosters every year. They should also have a general check up once a year with a veterinarian. Cats should always be in a carrier when going to the vet for their own safety and yours. Having loose kittens in a car is asking for one to find the brake pedal.

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