I want to get a cat. What do I need to know?

[whatnoww]

We have an 8 year old who is desperate for a pet, work 9-5 Monday to Friday so won't be in during the day but half term is coming up so could be in a lot more often then.

What do I need to know? I've never had a cat before or any pet for that matter. Will my house stink? is it cruel to own a cat and be out all day? Do I need a cat flap?

Any advice or things to think about would be great. Thanks

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My yard is slabs and gravel and no grass except weeds, but as they are mainly indoor and not hugely bothered by going out its been ok for them. I will invest in some pot plants for them as I am worried that they get bored out there. I don't let them out the front at all as they'd be terrified and I might loose them. They are a little lacking in the brain cells department, having had a rough start and lived in a cattery all their lives their road sense is nil.

Are you intending to let the cat out to free roam or keep it indoors?

If you intend to let it out be prepared for living or half dead 'gifts'.
It will need a collar with an address tag.
It will need to be microchipped and neutered/speyed.
Insurance is vital, especially if you allow the cat to free roam.

There is no reason for your house to stink.
Feed a good quality grain free wet food, avoid foods that contain sugars if possible feading dry biscuits. Cans work out much cheaper than pouches.

Cats like to be up high so if you have lots of ornaments either remove them or blue tack them to the furniture.

You need at least one litter tray.

Toys are essential to keep them from becoming destructive through boredom. Tinfoil balls are the favourite in here.

Zoo plus dot co dot uk is a good site for all your cats needs.

@The ABC what size did you buy? My Maine Coon has just about out grown her xxl covered litter box.

I've got a few pots out there with weeds plants in. I'd be happy to get a few more. There's a slide and a playhouse and lots of balls and stuff. I could take some of the artificial grass up too.

ABC did you just use a normal plastic container or is it a litter tray?

No high up ornaments although there is a trophy shelfwhich would need sorting out. I'm not very precious about ornaments and things, I'm prepared for some breakage and damage but hopefully not too much!