Before you bring your cat or kitten home, take some common-sense measures to make sure your home is ready for the new arrival. Once you bring your cat home, you’ll be secure in the knowledge that you are ready for your new pet, and you can spend your time playing and getting to know each other in a comfortable environment. Here are some basic tips to consider.

Think like a Cat
Look at the area from a cat’s perspective. What might pique a cat’s interest? What could pose a potential danger? Look under the sofa and in small spaces a human can’t easily reach, but might be tempting for a cat to explore.

Remove Temptation
Now that you have identified some of the hazards and off-limit items that may be facing your cat, do something about it. Start by moving any small breakables, irreplaceable or valuable items out of reach. Out of reach, however, is a relative term for cats, as adults cats can jump and climb nearly anywhere in a room. When possible, store valuables away in a closed container. Also keep in mind furniture; if any pieces are extremely important to you, you may want to cover or move them to a room that is off-limits to the cat.

Potential Dangers
Check out any areas the cat will be in once again, this time with an eye for potential hazards. One that pet owners may not consider is poisonous plants. Cats are often attracted to the movement of plants, and investigate by biting as well as pawing. Either move poisonous plants to a different part of the house or hang them out of reach.

Another item that attracts cats is cords: hanging blind cords, phone cords, or electrical cords. Cords that can’t be moved out of reach or fastened securely can be sprayed with Bitter Apple, a harmless but unpleasant tasting substance.

Finally, remove any small dangerous items such as paper clips, thumb tacks, or pest poisons from the area.

Litter Box
The litter box should be placed somewhere easy for the cat to access, away from busy areas, and out of the reach of any inquisitive dogs or small children. It’s best to put the litter box on a hard surface, as sometimes cats may mistake soft carpet around it for the actual litter box. Once you get your new cat home, she will let you know what type of litter and box she prefers.

Make some Areas off Limits
Move hazardous or valuable materials to another part of the house which is inaccessible to your cat. An unused bedroom is a good place to put off-limits items or, alternately, be certain to secure them in closed storage areas throughout the house. The garage is one area that should always be considered off-limits, as there are too many chemicals and hazardous materials in there.

Shop till you drop
In addition to the obvious essentials, such as a litter box and food, several other items will make you and your new cat more comfortable. As mentioned in regards to cords, Bitter Apple Spray is useful to have around for when moving dangerous (or endangered) items is not an option. In case of accidents, a good stain remover will come in handy.

To save your furniture and keep your cat happy, a scratching post is also a good investment. You can easily build one yourself, or purchase one from a store to suit your taste and/or budget. You will find a great range of styles and selections.

Unless you prefer to have your cat sleep with you, it is a good idea to get a cat bed. Your cat can use this throughout the day, for short cat naps, or at night. A variety of sizes and styles are available to suit your decor and your cat's size and breed.

Stock the Pantry
Consult your cat's former owners for the brand of food she is used to. If that is not an option, consider the needs of your cat based on age or physical condition. Kittens need more nutrients than adult cats do, and overweight cats may be put on a special diet. Always buy the best you can afford, it will pay for itself in the long run.

Food and water bowls should be ceramic or metal; plastic is not recommended as some cats may develop a chin rash. If you will be gone for extended periods of time, consider automatic food and water dispensers.

Toys
Playtime is an excellent opportunity to bond with your new cat and helps your kitten develop. There is a huge variety of toys available in any pet store, from simple rubber balls to elaborate houses and climbing posts. You don't necessarily have to spend much money to provide a toy for your cat. There are plenty items around the house that will provide endless hours of interest and entertainment. A plastic bottle,  piece of large diameter rope - use your imagination (and your common sense). An older cat will be content with a few small toys. With a kitten, just about anything goes!

Pet Carrier
You will need one of those, even if you plan on keeping your new cat indoors. A cardboard box will be just fine to get the cat home, but you will eventually need to get a sturdy plastic or metal portable carrier that will provide your cat safety, comfort and security during travel to appointments with your vet and boarding facility when needed.

Grooming
If you can accustom your new kitten to being handled, grooming sessions can be an enjoyable time for both you and your cat. It will also significantly contribute to your cat's health and well-being. Grooming helps keep your cat's coat clean, healthy and shiny and also helps to prevent indigestible hairballs from forming. Put a comb, brush, nail clippers and other grooming items made specifically for cats on your shopping list.