New Pet Checklist: Essential Supplies for Cats and Dogs

Quick answer: On day one you need food, food and water bowls, a bed, a collar with an ID tag, and a carrier. Cats also need a litter box and scratching post; dogs need a leash. Book a vet visit in the first week for vaccines and deworming.

For every pet

• Food made for their age
• Food and water bowls (steel or ceramic)
• A comfortable bed
• Collar with an ID tag, with your number on it from day one
• A carrier for vet visits
• Toys
• A brush and nail clippers

For cats and kittens

• Litter box (ideally one per cat, plus one extra)
• Cat litter
• Scratching post
• Breakaway collar

For dogs and puppies

• Leash
• Harness for walks
• Chew toys
• Poop bags

Health, in the first week

• Vet check-up
• Vaccinations on the schedule your vet sets
• Deworming
• Flea and tick prevention
• Talk to your vet about spaying or neutering

What can wait

Fancy beds, lots of toys and clothes. Start simple and see what your pet loves.

The one thing people forget

An ID tag. New pets are the most likely to slip out, because they don't know your home yet. Get a Tailswatch tag before they arrive.

Read next: Choosing the right collar · What to feed your cat

FAQs

What does a new kitten need? Kitten food, bowls, a litter box and litter, a scratching post, a bed, a carrier and a breakaway collar with an ID tag.

When should a new pet see a vet? In the first week, for a check-up, vaccines and deworming.