Keeping a Cat at Home: What Cat Adopters Need to Know
Behind their curled tails, their gentle approaches to fall asleep, their explorations of the house room by room with us, and countless other beautiful things, are cats! Naturally, countless people who want to keep a cat at home dream of the moment they will meet their furry friends.

Behind their curled tails, their gentle approaches to fall asleep, their explorations of the house room by room with us, and countless other beautiful things, are cats! Naturally, countless people who want to keep a cat at home dream of the moment they will meet their furry friends. When you focus on the indescribable beauty of living with cats, everything seems rosy! However, cats, just like humans, need regular care, consistent health checkups, nutrition appropriate to their life stages, regular exercise, and even play to support their cognitive development. It is therefore very important not to misunderstand the partial truth of the statement "Cats can stay home alone." If you want to keep a cat at home, you must meet all of your feline friend's needs from A to Z. Speaking of cat needs, understanding the scope of these needs correctly is the first step to realizing the responsibilities to be undertaken. Therefore, we wanted to prepare a special article for those considering adopting a cat. In this article, you can find detailed information about life before, immediately after, and after adopting a cat. You can learn about your cat's needs and determine its priority needs. Some of the needs we will mention consist of those directly necessary for the health and comfort of cats.
It is therefore very important not to misunderstand the partial truth of the statement "Cats can be left alone at home." If you want to keep a cat at home, you must meet all of your pet's needs from A to Z. Speaking of cats' needs, understanding the scope of these needs is the first step in recognizing the responsibilities involved. Therefore, we wanted to prepare a special article for those considering adopting a cat.
In this article, you can find detailed information about life before, during, and after adopting a cat. You can learn about your cat's needs and identify its priorities. Some of the needs we will discuss are directly related to the health and comfort of cats.
There's more; cats need to be happy as well as healthy and comfortable! That's why this article will be quite comprehensive. First, we'll talk about what to consider in the decision-making process, the necessity of getting to know cats and the fact that each one's needs can vary, and then we'll share ways to welcome your cat into your home in the most comfortable way.
1. Making the Decision to Adopt a Cat 2. Getting to Know the Cat You Will Adopt 3. What You Need to Do Before Your Cat Comes Home 4. Starting to Live with a Cat
1. Making the Decision to Adopt a Cat

There are many different reasons why people decide to adopt a cat. For some, cute images they see on social media are appealing, while for others, experiencing the companionship of cats becomes the most important driving force. Regardless of the primary reason for deciding to adopt a cat, the basic steps involved in the adoption process remain the same. We previously shared a blog post titled "7 Things Cat Adopters Should Know," which you can access by clicking here.
1.1 Be Aware of the Costs
We don't want to paint a pessimistic picture, but keeping a cat at home means there will be certain expenses. Cat food, supplements if needed, necessary cat products for their care, and of course, regular health checkups require cat owners to spend regularly.
Generally speaking, considering the 2025 cat vaccinations and prices, if basic vaccinations are started at the first veterinary visit, we can say that the cost for veterinary clinic visits will be between 1,000 and 3,000 TL. For your pet's most basic needs, such as food, water bowls, food bowls, cat litter, cat toilet, and cat combs, an expenditure of 900 – 1,200 TL will be sufficient. Before moving in with cats, it's important to consider that the process will be expensive. Because some needs cannot be replaced with alternatives for a cat's healthy, happy, and comfortable life. For example, cat food shouldn't be expensive, so cats shouldn't be given homemade food. The food humans eat can be life-threatening for cats. Similarly, veterinary checkups shouldn't be neglected just because cats look healthy. There are many cat diseases that can be life-threatening if not diagnosed early. Let's talk about supplement use. Yes, some vitamin and mineral supplements aren't necessarily needed for every cat. However, using malt is important for hairballs, which are a natural part of a cat's self-cleaning process. It cannot be said that every cat will experience stomach and intestinal blockages if malt is not used, but caution should always be exercised. We can multiply these examples, and we will provide more detailed explanations on a topic-by-topic basis in later sections of our article. 1.2 Learn Their Needs It is necessary to know the most basic needs of cats before making the decision to adopt one. Cats need different nutrients at different stages of their lives. Therefore, their diet should be shaped according to their life stages. Cats may be at risk of different diseases at different stages of their lives, and veterinary examinations are critically important for the early detection or prevention of possible health problems. The vaccination schedule must be followed. Thanks to the cat vaccination schedule, it contributes to the protection of their health both in kittenhood and adulthood. You can learn the details by reading our article on the Vaccination Schedule for Kittens and Adult Cats.
Before moving in with cats, it's important to consider the high cost of the process. Because some needs cannot be replaced with alternatives to ensure a healthy, happy, and comfortable life for cats. For example, cat food shouldn't be expensive, so cats shouldn't be fed homemade food. Foods that humans eat can be life-threatening for cats. Similarly, veterinary checkups shouldn't be neglected just because cats appear healthy. Many feline diseases can be life-threatening if not diagnosed early.
Now, let's talk about supplement use. Yes, some vitamin and mineral supplements aren't necessarily needed for every cat. However, using malt is important for hairballs, which are a natural part of a cat's grooming process. It's not that not using malt will cause stomach and intestinal blockages in every cat, but caution should always be exercised. We could give many more examples, and we will provide more detailed explanations on specific topics later in the article.
1.2 Learn Their Needs

It is essential to know the most basic needs of cats before deciding to adopt one. Cats need different nutrients at different stages of their lives. Therefore, their diet should be tailored to their life stage. Cats may be at risk of different diseases at different stages of their lives, and veterinary examinations are critically important for the early detection or prevention of potential health problems.
The vaccination schedule must be followed. The cat vaccination schedule contributes to the protection of their health both in kittenhood and adulthood. You can learn the details by reading our article on the Vaccination Schedule for Kittens and Adult Cats.
Cats need intense attention as kittens, and this need doesn't disappear as they get older. Coming home tired from work and not spending time with them is out of the question; their psychology can be negatively affected. Cats need regular grooming. Their fur should be brushed, their nails trimmed, their teeth brushed, and their ears cleaned.
Some cats need to go to pet groomers. Please don't misunderstand this statement; professional help for cats' grooming can become a necessity rather than a preference. For some cats, regular shaving is necessary not for a more beautiful/well-groomed appearance, but to eliminate the risk of hairballs.
Essential needs of cats also include cat products they will use throughout the day. Cats must have a litter box; hygienic litter is a must-have. Products such as litter scoops and litter bags should be used to protect our health during litter cleaning. Needs such as traveling in their own carriers when going to the vet should be considered when deciding to adopt a cat. In the following sections of our article, we will discuss which are the basic needs of cats and which are not essential.
1.3 Discover the Necessities of Living with a Cat
Every cat is unique, and cats' personalities can be very different from each other. Some cats prefer to spend time in laps, while others retreat to the highest places in the house. Those who are considering living with cats need to accept their choices. Cats are not plush toys; they should not be bored. Cats should be respected while they are sleeping; think about how frustrating it is when we are disturbed while we sleep, isn't it?
Cats evolve just like humans; their personalities can change during kittenhood, adulthood, and old age. A cat that used to enjoy being cuddled may become uncomfortable or even react negatively to it in later years; the key is understanding their reactions.
It is important for those who want to keep a cat at home to truly know their cat. Knowing about their habits, when they react strongly, the purpose of their meowing tones, how they express their desire to play, and their daily routines ensures a healthy relationship with cats and makes it possible to quickly notice any potential changes in their behavior.
Another requirement of keeping a cat at home is knowing that the keys to the house will be handed over to them. The house is now theirs. Now you are the big cat who takes care of them, who must ensure they have enough food and water, who must take care of their health, who must play with them, and who is expected to offer them unconditional love.
1.4 Remember There's a Period of Adjustment for Pets

Those who are going to adopt a cat should think about and manage the process in detail if they already have another pet sharing their home. Both cats and dogs are animals that can get depressed. They love routine in their lives, and when it comes to cats, dependence on routine is even greater. The addition of a new person to the family, being separated from their favorite human for a long time, neglect of playtime, moving to a different house, and even changes in household items can shake their psychology.
Being forced to adjust to a new cat or dog can also be quite upsetting for them. Therefore, care should be taken during the adjustment period between the newly adopted cat and the long-time owner of the house. You can access our blog post "Can Cats and Dogs Be Friends?" here and learn about the precautions that should be taken to facilitate the adjustment process between pets.
The age and character of the adopted cat, as well as the age and character of the existing pet, can alter the dynamics of the acclimatization process. If the owner of the house is a cat, they may not always get along very well with a new cat.
Cats may engage in dominance struggles during the acclimatization phase; they may have difficulty sharing many items, from their litter boxes to their food and water bowls. In this case, the most important step is to be patient, controlled, and avoid adopting a forceful attitude in their relationship. Ensure the environment is calm during the introductions, and you can make it easier for them to get used to each other by petting both of them, taking advantage of their sensitivity to smells.
If you have reservations about the introductions, which is perfectly normal, you can use a cat carrier during the introductions to create a safe environment where they feel comfortable and get used to each other's scents. You can also use treats and toys to distract them. This topic is quite comprehensive; therefore, it is crucial to remember that properly analyzing the personalities of both cats and dogs already living at home is of great importance.
2. Knowing the Cat You Will Adopt

When making the decision to adopt, it is necessary to know the cat to be adopted. Cats' needs can vary depending on their age, health status, and experiences in their earlier lives. The scope of these needs can be reflected in their nutrition and exercise requirements, and can also be important in shaping the approach towards them. Therefore, knowing the cat you want to adopt can speed up its adjustment period and allow it to live a happier and healthier life.
2.1 Yavru Kedi Sahiplenme
Both adopting a kitten and adopting an adult cat have their own difficulties as well as their advantages. The needs of kittens after adoption can vary depending on their age in weeks. It's crucial for kittens to be fed mother's milk for the first two months. Unfortunately, not all kittens can stay with their mothers for this long. If the adopted kitten is younger than two months old, it needs to be fed with formula milk. For kittens older than two months, kitten food is possible. Besides feeding, kittens also have a high need for attention. It's not recommended for them to be left alone during the day. Therefore, before adopting, it's important for people to consider how much time they spend at home and how much time they can dedicate to the kittens. Adopting a kitten makes it easier to ensure the healthy development of our furry friends. Trauma to the kitten can be prevented, but it's also somewhat challenging. During this period when they begin to explore the world, kittens' curiosity is at its peak. They may make a mess, want to explore the outside at the first opportunity, and damage household items. Possible scenarios must be understood and probabilities accepted; risky situations must be prevented.
Besides their nutritional needs, kittens also have a great need for attention. It is not recommended for them to be left alone during the day. Therefore, before adopting, it is important for people to consider how much time they spend at home and how much of their time they can dedicate to the kittens.
Adopting a kitten makes it easier to ensure the healthy development of our furry friends. While it's possible to prevent trauma to the kitten, it's also somewhat challenging. During this period when they begin to explore the world, kittens' curiosity is at its peak. They may make a mess, want to explore the outside world at the first opportunity, and damage household items. It's necessary to be aware of possible scenarios and accept probabilities; risky situations should be prevented.
2.2 Adopting an Adult Cat
Adopting an adult cat comes with certain responsibilities. It's important to proceed slowly to build strong bonds with adults who have established personalities. If possible, all details about their past life should be learned; otherwise, the care taken to get to know them should be maximized. Adopting an adult cat may mean less effort compared to adopting a kitten; however, this shouldn't be interpreted that way.
Because adult cats have established behaviors, they generally have a calmer temperament, are less likely to damage belongings, cause less mess, and since they are usually litter-trained, there is less chance of problems related to toilet habits. Adult cats, like kittens, require special nutrition.
When adopting an adult cat, adult cat food formulated specifically for their developmental stage should be preferred. It is recommended that they eat wet food a few times a week. This ensures that both taste expectations and water needs are met. Moreover, wet foods and treats strengthen the bond during the acclimatization process. It is also important to consider vitamin and supplement options during this time.
2.3 Adopting a Neutered Cat
If you are going to adopt a neutered cat, it is important to know the needs of neutered cats completely. After neutering, the release of sex hormones in female or male cats decreases significantly. Therefore, their metabolism slows down and their activity levels decrease. For this reason, if they are not fed properly, neutered cats may develop weight problems.
Those who adopt neutered cats should choose from neutered cat food options and keep their pets as active as possible. Regular veterinary check-ups should not be neglected during this process, as with cats of all ages.
2.4 Traumatized Cat / Adopting a Cat from a Shelter or the Street

It is an undeniable fact that those who want to adopt a cat from a shelter or the street have made a wonderful decision. Cats living on the streets may not be fed, may not have ideal living conditions, and unfortunately, may be exposed to trauma for various reasons, which can make them more sensitive and defensive than ever. Adopting a traumatized cat is a choice that requires great dedication but is incredibly rewarding in terms of the emotions it provides.
When kittens or adult cats are traumatized, they make this quite clear. They may stay away from people, disappear at the slightest sound, and spend most of their days out of sight. In such a situation, mutual trust must be established. Interaction should be gradually increased over time, great patience should be exercised, and no forceful actions should be taken.
2.5 Adopting a Cat with Health Problems or Disabilities
Adopting cats with health problems or disabilities has very similar characteristics to adopting traumatized cats. There are additional precautions that need to be taken for cats with disabilities, and these precautions may vary depending on the health problem or disability the cat has. For example, if you are adopting a deaf cat, you need to focus on visual and tactile signals when communicating with it. Verbal communication with deaf cats is not very possible, and it is important to be prepared for their loud meowing. Therefore, you need to be more patient and dedicated. You can read our blog post titled "Adopting a Deaf Cat" by clicking here. When it comes to visually impaired cats, keeping the household items in their familiar order will be a great advantage. This allows them to get used to a certain routine and prevents possible accidents. Of course, safety precautions for the cats must also be taken. You can review our article "Tips for Living with Blind Cats" here. Extra care is also important for cats that are missing any limbs. Cats may have reduced mobility due to missing limbs. This difference necessitates making more appropriate choices to meet their basic needs. For example, small measures such as choosing low-profile models for cat litter boxes and keeping water and food bowls in easily accessible places can improve the living standards of cats.
Verbal communication with deaf cats is not very possible, and it is important to be prepared for their loud meowing. Therefore, you need to be more patient and dedicated. You can read our blog post titled "Adopting a Deaf Cat" by clicking here.
When it comes to visually impaired cats, keeping the furniture in the house in its familiar order will be a great advantage. This way, they can get used to a certain routine, and potential accidents can be prevented. Of course, safety precautions for cats must also be taken. You can review our article on the secrets to living with blind cats here.
Extra care is also important for cats without any limbs. Cats may have reduced mobility due to missing limbs. This difference requires making more appropriate choices to meet their basic needs. For example, small measures such as choosing low-height models when selecting a cat litter box and keeping water and food bowls in easily accessible places can improve the living standards of cats.
3. Things to Do Before Your Cat Comes Home

If you have reached this stage, we wish you many long and happy days with your furry friend. The decision to adopt a cat should not be rushed, and the responsibilities required by the process should be embraced. If you have adopted a cat despite all the possible challenging scenarios, we have good news; from now on, unconditional love will always be close to you in your life. However, of course, introducing them to their new home will not be easy. Before your new friend comes home, you will need to make the following preparations;
3.1 Veteriner Hekiminizi Bulun
We recommend that you find your veterinarian first before bringing your cat home. Immediately after you meet your friend, you should have a general check-up and start the cat vaccination schedule. You need to think carefully about many things when choosing a veterinarian. Choosing a veterinarian is one of the most important processes for people who will start a life with pets, and therefore you should go through comprehensive selection.
How close is your veterinarian's clinic to you, can you access your veterinarian or clinic 24/7? How thoroughly are disinfection procedures carried out in the clinic? You should consider the details of many questions, such as whether the reviews on the internet are negative or positive. To find your veterinarian and make the right choice, you can access our blog post "How to Choose a Veterinarian?" here.
3.2 Determine Their Basic Needs
You've chosen your veterinarian, and you'll be having post-adoption health checkups and starting the vaccination schedule. But what about after that? If you're adopting a cat, what are your most BASIC needs? In this part of our article, we will address their essential needs, and we will also touch upon "optional" needs to help you avoid increasing the costs of getting your furry friend. Here are some preparations you should make before your cat arrives home:
3.2.1 Kitten Needs

Carrier: If you are adopting a kitten, you should first consider taking your furry friend to the vet and then ensure that their basic needs are met when you return home. You should first take your kitten to the vet in a "box". This box can be an ordinary box, but since your vet visits will become frequent, it is recommended that you obtain a carrier before you meet your furry friend.
It would be beneficial to consider cat carriers as a long-term investment. If you frequently travel by plane and need to take your cat with you, you can choose a carrier that meets the dimensions deemed suitable for cabin transport by airlines. You can find our range of carriers here.
Cat Litter Box and Litter: After solving your cat carrier needs, you should think about what your cat might need as soon as it enters your home and acquire these cat products. For example, every cat will need a litter box, and similarly, you will need to choose from cat litter varieties made from materials that are not harmful to their health. Litter scoops are important tools for cleaning cat litter boxes. We can give many more examples, but these products will suffice in the first stage. You can review cat litter box varieties here, and you can access the relevant page for cat litter here.
Kitten Food and Milk Powder: Choosing foods formulated specifically for your kitten's developmental stage is one of the most important steps in its nutrition. If you are adopting a friend younger than 8 weeks old, their feeding should be done with milk powder. You can access milk powder products here. For kittens older than 8 weeks, wet and dry food should be provided. Giving your kitten adult or neutered cat food means that its developmental needs will not be fully met. You can find different types of kitten food here.
Food and Water Bowl: A food bowl is also among the products you must obtain before your cat arrives home. In addition to a food bowl, a water bowl is also a priority. It should be remembered that these products, which are made from materials that do not allow bacterial growth, must be kept clean at all times. You can click here to access different types of food and water bowls.
Cat Toys: One of the most basic needs of your kitten is toys. Playing is one of the most important supports for both their physical and mental development. You can review all types of cat toys by clicking this link.
Important: You can use your creativity to make different toys yourself. This is an alternative, but you should be careful. The structure and quality of the materials you choose, how securely the stitching is done (if any), and whether the toys might fall apart can all pose risks. For safer alternatives, you can opt for cat toys. Since there are different types of cat toys, you should first try one or two different models. Some of our furry friends may not care about the most extravagant toys, while others may never leave the simplest ones!
Scratching Post: Those who will be living with kittens should also consider potential problems. For curious kittens who love to scratch and climb, scratching posts are one of the most basic necessities. Of course, it is not mandatory, but it should not be forgotten that the damage to household items should be considered. If you want to examine the types of scratching posts, you can click here.
3.2.2 Needs of Adult / Neutered Cats
Carrier Bag: The needs of adult/neutered cats are similar to those of kittens. However, the need for a carrier for them to be able to go to the vet before coming home can be considered a necessity rather than a preference. At the first vet visit for adult cats, the vaccination schedule should be determined and general health checks should be performed. You can find our carrier product range here.
Cat Food: Apart from carriers, adult cats' needs are the same as kittens'. They also need to consume dry food according to their developmental stages, and their food should be provided before they come home. In addition, canned food and treats will greatly facilitate the adjustment process.
Adult cats should be fed adult cat dry food to maintain their health. You can click here for adult cat food. If the cat is neutered, neutered cat food should be preferred. This ensures that their metabolic needs are fully met and contributes to the maintenance of their health. You can review neutered cat food varieties here.
Cat Litter Boxes and Litters: Cat litter boxes and litters are essential needs for adult cats. Not every cat adapts to every type of litter, so it may be necessary to try different types, including those in smaller packages. Litter scoops are always associated with comfort when cleaning the litter box. You can browse different types of cat litter boxes here, and access the relevant page for cat litter here.

Cat Beds: Cat beds are also among the needs of adult cats, providing them with their own space. Cat beds contribute to the comfort of cats, who spend most of their day sleeping, and also strengthen their sense of belonging. You can find cat beds here.
Cat Toys: Adult cats also need to play. Cat toys are essential items on a shopping list to help cats socialize, strengthen their bonds with new family members, support their physical and mental development, and of course, meet their physical activity needs. You might consider homemade toys, but you shouldn't overlook the possibility that adults may be much stronger than kittens. You can click this link to access a variety of cat toys.
3.2.3 Needs of Cats with Health Problems or Disabilities
Carrier Bag: The first need for cats with health problems or disabilities is to complete veterinary checkups, have general health checks, and create a new vaccination schedule. Again, cat carriers should be obtained before meeting the cats. This way, precautions can be taken both for transportation and to prevent possible escapes. You can click here to view carrier bag options.
Cat Food: A cat with health problems or disabilities may have special nutritional needs. Therefore, cat food recommended by veterinarians should be used in accordance with health problems. In some cases, it may be necessary to use veterinary series foods. To access all cat foods, you can click here and use the filtering options to make the right choice for your cat.
Cat Litter Box and Cat Litter: If the cats to be adopted have health problems or disabilities, the choice of cat litter box may differ depending on the condition. Products that are easy to enter and exit and have low sides can offer an advantage in this regard. After choosing a cat litter box, a choice should be made among cat litters. You can review the types of cat litter boxes here, and you can access the relevant page for cat litters here.
Safety Precautions: Taking safety precautions before bringing cats home is also important. Although it applies to all cats, additional safety precautions are absolutely necessary for cats with disabilities. If a cat with visual or hearing impairments escapes outside, it unfortunately means they will be exposed to many dangers. You can find safety products for cats here.
Cat Bed: For cats with illnesses or disabilities, using cat beds or cat houses can be important to ensure their comfort. Depending on the problem, these needs can be met before the cats arrive home. Indoor cat beds offer great comfort in this regard. You can access indoor cat bed varieties here.
Important: Grooming products are among the essential needs for all adopted cats. You may not need to trim their nails as soon as they arrive home, but brushing their fur is important for establishing warm bonds with cats and removing dead hair. Therefore, it will be beneficial to purchase grooming products such as brushes, combs, and nail clippers that should be used as part of cat care. In addition, don't forget cat-specific toothbrushes and toothpaste! You can find grooming products for cats here.
3.3 Prepare Your Cat's Basic Needs
In this part of our article, we will briefly provide information about the products that people who want to adopt a cat should get before bringing their furry friends home, and we will share links that allow easy access to the products. Of course, as always, we will also provide you with concise information as much as possible.

3.3.1 Mama
It is recommended that all cats, whether kitten, adult, or neutered, be fed dry food formulated specifically for their developmental stages. The main reason for this is that home-cooked meals can be harmful to cats, and it is quite difficult to meet all of a cat's nutritional needs with home-cooked meals at the same time. Dry foods have different formulas to meet different needs and aim to provide maximum benefit to the health of cats.
Important Exception: For kittens younger than 8 weeks, specially formulated milk powders for cats should be used!
- If your adopted cat is younger than 8 weeks old, you can view milk powder options here.
- If your adopted cat is still a kitten, you can find kitten food options here.
- If your adopted cat is an adult but not neutered, you can view adult cat food options here.
- If your cat is neutered, you should switch to neutered cat food. You can view neutered cat food options by clicking here.
- Overweight problems in your cat can lead to serious health issues. If you are planning to adopt an overweight cat, you should choose from light cat food options before it even arrives home. You can find our light cat food products here.
- If the cat you decide to adopt is in its senior years, senior cat food specially formulated for its needs will be the best choice. You can make the right choice for your feline friend by reviewing our senior cat food category.
Important: If the cat you are adopting does not have a previous food or you do not have this information, choose smaller packages of food as much as possible during your first food purchase. Cats can have different tastes; therefore, going for 10-15 kilogram bags of food would not be the right choice.
Important: If you have adopted a kitten younger than 8 weeks old, there is no need to buy treats initially. However, if your cat isn't a kitten, treats can be a nice welcome gift along with wet food. You can find information about treats and wet food in the last part of our article.
3.3.2 Food and Water Bowl
Among the essential needs of every cat are food and water bowls. Food and water bowls are of great importance in the healthy nutrition and water intake of cats. There are many different food and water bowls. When choosing, products that are large enough so that the cat's whiskers cannot come into contact with them should be preferred.
To examine products such as ceramic food and water bowls, automatic food and water bowls, plastic food and water bowls, food and water bowls with reservoirs, and stainless steel food and water bowls, you can access our cat food and water bowls category here.
Important: When choosing food and water bowls, it is necessary to correctly analyze the needs. It is especially important for cats to always have access to fresh, and if possible, running water. Since they naturally do not tend to drink stagnant water, automatic water bowls are recommended for cats who consume little water during the day. You can review the types of automatic water bowls by clicking here.
Important: The cleanliness of food and water bowls is very important. Even if only dry food is given, these products, which cats need to be in constant contact with to meet their basic needs, should be cleaned at least twice a week. Increasing the cleaning frequency in hot weather can prevent the formation of bacteria.
3.3.3 Toilet - Litter

Among the answers to the question "What are the most basic needs of cats?", cat toilets and cat litter have an indispensable place.
Cats need to feel comfortable in their litter boxes. Because they are very fond of their privacy, they may avoid using litter boxes where they don't feel safe or comfortable. This avoidance can reduce the comfort of both the cat and other household members, and can also lead to hygiene problems. Therefore, care should be taken when choosing a cat litter box. When choosing a cat litter box:
- Models that allow cats to move comfortably inside should be selected.
- Consider whether there are any health problems that would restrict the cat's movement. High-sided litter boxes will be difficult for them to get in and out of.
- Ensure that the products are easy to clean and that the materials used will not harm cats.
- The characteristics of the place where cat litter boxes will be kept should be considered. In an isolated area for cats, open cat litter boxes are generally a better choice, while closed cat litter boxes are preferable when there is no dedicated area for cat litter boxes.
Cat litter boxes can be produced in different sizes and with different features. Their widths and side heights can vary depending on the model. To choose between open cat litter boxes, closed cat litter boxes, and cat litter boxes with carbon filters and sieves, you can visit our cat litter boxes category.
Another essential requirement for the use of cat litter boxes is cat litter. The selection of cat litter should also be done carefully, and the types of litter that cats find comfortable should be determined. By visiting our cat litter boxes category, you can examine clumping cat litter, granular cat litter, and silica cat litter products.
Because there is such a wide variety of cat litters, choosing the right one can be difficult. However, you need to choose the litter correctly before your adopted cat arrives. You can read our article titled "Things to Consider When Choosing Cat Litter" here to increase the accuracy of your choices.
Cat litter and cat toilets are basic needs for your adopted cat, but we can also say that auxiliary products can increase your hygiene and comfort. Thanks to cat toilet mats, you can prevent litter that can stick to paws from being carried into living areas, you can clean the toilets hygienically with litter scoops, and you can use litter odor removers in case of a possible odor problem. You can access litter odor remover products by clicking here.
Important: The cleaning of cat toilets should absolutely not be neglected. Cat litter should be cleaned twice a day and completely changed every 10-15 days. Since cats are clean creatures, they don't like dirty litter boxes at all and may experience hygiene problems. Important: Cat litter boxes should be cleaned every 15 days. Just changing the litter will not be enough. Cleaning should be done with cleaning materials that do not harm cats, and litter should only be put back after ensuring that no residue remains. You can access our content "How to Clean a Cat Litter Box?" here and reduce your questions. Cat Carrier Cat carriers have regular veterinary check-ups, vaccination times, and may need to travel with you or be restrained during relocation. Cat carriers are among the most important products you will always need to safely transport cats during any change of location outside their routine. Cats do not like change of location and mostly do not like the idea of leaving their living space. Cat carriers will provide great comfort for both them and you in this sense.
Important: Cat litter boxes should be cleaned every 15 days. Simply changing the litter will not be sufficient. Cleaning should be done with cat-safe cleaning materials, and litter should only be added after ensuring no residue remains. You can find our article "How to Clean a Cat Litter Box?" here to answer your questions.
3.3.4 Carrier Bag
Cats have regular veterinary checkups, vaccination times, and may need to travel with you or be restrained during relocation. Carrier bags are among the essential items you will always need to safely transport your cat during any change of location outside their routine. Cats don't like changes of location and generally don't like the idea of being away from their living space. Cat carrier bags will provide great comfort for both them and you in this regard.
Cat carriers can be produced in many different models, from many different materials, and in many different sizes. You can browse cat carrier models here.
When choosing a carrier that you can use when going to veterinary clinics, which are your first stop before adopting your cat and bringing it home, and which will become your biggest help afterwards, you should pay attention to its size, the durability of its material, and whether it has ventilation. Of course, the design is also important; you can increase your comfort by creating both stylish and ergonomic designs while also reflecting your cat's style. We are sure that you will be closely interested in your cat's image after you adopt it!

3.4 Take Safety Precautions at Home
Kittens are very mischievous. Their excessive curiosity about the world around them can sometimes lead them to dangerous situations. Open windows and balconies, in particular, pose a significant risk for kittens. The situation is not much different for adult cats. While some adults have a very calm temperament, others can embody all the mischievousness of the feline family.
It is very important to consider the potential of our feline friends whose dangerous movements make our hearts race. Safety precautions are also of great importance for cats with visual and hearing impairments. Due to their health problems, they are less likely to notice potential dangers they may encounter. In short, if you are going to adopt a cat, we recommend that you be cautious before your cat comes home. You can review safety products here and keep your cat safe.
3.5 Create a Space for Your Cat
Cats are social creatures; although they are not thought to be very fond of spending time with their families, they need to form warm bonds. Similarly, they may want to be alone from time to time. Areas where they can spend time undisturbed, peacefully, and sleep soundly will contribute to them living a happier and freer life.
Considering the needs of cats comprehensively and providing them with freedom of movement should be among the important priorities of those who want to adopt a cat. You should roll up your sleeves and create a special space for your cat even before bringing it home. For this purpose, you can place cat beds in the quietest room of your house, and create areas where it can both have fun and retreat when needed with cat houses with scratching posts. Since your cat has not yet arrived home, you do not need to buy additional products; you can take action after discovering your friend's character.

4. Starting to Live with a Cat
We have reached the most beautiful stage, we wish you many long, happy and healthy years with your new friend you have brought home! You're slowly starting to discover the joys of living with cats, aren't you? But wait, your adventure is just beginning. Observing them, witnessing them grow or get used to you, them quietly coming to you after eating, hiding in the most unexpected places and causing you panic for minutes on end, and countless more adventures await you.
In this process, where we are sure you will do your best to support their healthy development, maintain their health, and ensure their happiness, you should also take some steps for yourself. In this part of our article, we will briefly provide information about what you should pay attention to after your cat comes home.
4.1 Cat Toilet Training
Compared to dogs, it is generally known that the cat toilet training process is much faster and more comfortable. If cats haven't had any negative experiences with the litter box in the past, the size of the litter box doesn't compromise their comfort, they have privacy, there's enough litter, the litter box is clean, or they don't have any health problems, they learn to use the litter box quite quickly.
To learn more about litter training for kittens, you can access our blog post "How to Toilet Train a Kitten?" here.
To learn more about litter training for adult cats, you can access our blog post "How to Toilet Train an Adult Cat?" here.
4.2 Nutrition
Balanced nutrition is the most important requirement for cats to develop healthily, prevent potential health problems, and maintain their health. As we mentioned in the section on what you need to get before your cat comes home, the choice of food should be made carefully.
Kuru Mama
When choosing food for cats, criteria such as their age, whether they are neutered or not, their weight, and their general health should be taken into consideration. You can make the right choice for your pet by asking for advice from veterinarians on these issues. Another point to consider when choosing food is our friends' taste preferences. They may resist eating foods they don't like, and in this case, they may experience health problems because they do not get the necessary nutrients for their metabolism. You can view all cat foods by clicking here and examine product details using the filtering options.
To learn more about food selection, you can read our blog post "Things to Consider When Choosing Cat Food" by clicking here.
Cats may need to have their food changed at certain times. As cats age and transition to different life stages, and experience skin problems, a change in food becomes necessary. However, changing cats' food is a process that needs careful planning. You can read our article "How Often and How Should Cat Food Be Changed?" here. Wet Food Wet food plays an important role in cats' nutrition. Constantly eating dry food can lead to boredom and prevent them from meeting their natural need for variety in taste. Moreover, because wet foods contain a high percentage of moisture, they help meet the fluid needs of cats who don't like to drink water. This can reduce the risk of both dehydration and urinary system diseases. Wet foods have different formulations and, with the taste they offer, they act as a treat for cats.
Wet Food
Wet food plays an important role in the nutrition of cats. Constantly eating dry food can lead to boredom and prevent them from meeting their natural need for variety in taste. Moreover, because wet food contains a high amount of moisture, it helps meet the fluid needs of cats who don't like to drink water. This can reduce the risk of both dehydration and urinary system diseases. Wet foods have different formulations and, with the taste they offer, act as a treat for cats.
While offered to meet the taste preferences of healthy cats, wet food may become a necessity for older cats, those with poor oral and dental health, and those who have undergone surgery. In general, when a balance between dry and wet food is desired, it can be stated that cats can eat wet food 2-3 times a week. You can click here for information about wet food balance in cats.
You can find all types of canned cat food here and make choices suitable for their developmental stages and taste preferences.
Ek Besinler
It is known that cats need vitamin supplements and supplements to both maintain and improve their health at different stages of their lives. Among the supplements that can be obtained with the recommendations of veterinarians are different products such as multivitamins, supplements that support digestive system health, and tablets that support skin and coat health.
One of the most important supplementary foods for cats is malt. Since cats clean themselves by licking and swallow dead hairs due to their tongue structure, providing cat malt is crucial to prevent potential blockages in their digestive system. You can access our content titled "Why Do Cats Get Hairballs? What Are the Symptoms?" here.
Click here to browse our cat vitamins and supplements category; you can contribute to protecting your cat's health, strengthening its immune system, and improving its overall health.
Treat Treats
One of the most practical ways to make cats happy is to use nutritious and delicious cat treats. Treats, which can have many different ingredients, will be very beneficial when used for training purposes. But beware! Treats are cat foods that have nutritional value and contain a certain amount of calories. Therefore, they should be given in moderation. You can browse different types of cat treats here.
4.3 Care

Although they love to be cleaned, the care process for cats is not limited to this. Cats need to be brushed regularly, and it is important to trim their nails correctly. Oral and dental health should definitely not be neglected, and their teeth should be brushed. Cats' ears should be cleaned, though not as much as dogs'. All these care processes are necessities, not preferences. We would like to explain with a few examples;
- When cats are not brushed regularly, their skin oils do not spread throughout their bodies, they are more likely to swallow excess hair and develop hairballs, their skin health may deteriorate, and the likelihood of a close relationship with their humans decreases. You can access cat combs and brushes by clicking here.
- Cats experience pain while walking if their claws are not regularly trimmed or if they do not have scratching posts to help file them. They damage furniture and can cause unwanted accidents while playing.
4.4 Oyun/Egzersiz
For those who live with cats, the fact that cats spend long periods sleeping or resting may lead them to believe that they do not need exercise and play. This is quite wrong! Cats need exercise to maintain their fitness and protect themselves from potential illnesses. Moreover, leading an active life is in their nature. Cats that are neglected, not exercised, and are left to their own devices can become depressed.
Cat toys offer a great advantage in making it easier for cats to exercise, to provide them with physical and mental stimulation, and of course, to strengthen the bonds formed with them. When choosing cat toys, ensure they are made from quality materials, consider the possibility of them falling apart, and ensure they are among their favorites so that cats actively participate in play sessions.
There are many types of cat toys that encourage cats to be active, provide them with enjoyable playtime, and support their cognitive development. You can browse cat toy options here.
Important: Cat toys are essentially among cats' basic needs. However, every cat has a different personality. Sometimes, they may not react at all to even the most flashy and popular toys. In such a case, you should try to attract their attention by using your creativity. By making play a part of their lives, you can ensure they stay happy and healthy.
4.5 Comfort Zone
We know that cats are very fond of their comfort. They love spending time at high altitudes. Once they lie down, they don't want to be woken up. Their stretching shouldn't be interrupted, and too much noise shouldn't be made. Therefore, having their own private space is an important requirement. There can be different ways to provide them with space, but cat products will only offer practical solutions. To increase your cat's comfort, you can choose from:
- Cat beds can be found here.
- Cat houses and shelters can be viewed by clicking here.





