New Cat Owners

Introducing a new pet into your household is an exciting time for everyone! To ensure a smooth transition with your new feline friend it is great to be prepared and to ensure you understand your new pet’s requirements.

Supplies needed for your new cat:

  • Carry cage/cat carrier
  • Food and water bowls
  • Litter tray(s) and litter
  • Scratching post
  • Comfortable bed to sleep
  • Toys to play with
  • Grooming tools
  • Collar
  • An appointment for vaccinations, worming, desexing and microchipping (as required)
Responsibilities of owning a cat

Introducing a new pet to your family is a responsibility, and requires you to become aware of the ways in which you must take care of your new furry companion.

Owning a cat requires the following:

  • Vaccinating your cat.
  • Regular flea and worm treatments.
  • Regular grooming.
  • Registering your cat with the local council (if they are over 3 months of age).
  • Desexing your cat unless you are a registered breeder.
  • Reduce your cat’s risk to wildlife by managing their behaviour.
  • Recognising if your cat has a medical or behavioural problem and taking steps to address and resolve the issue.
  • You are also legally required to keep your cat on your property at all times (with a collar and council tag when outside) and inside between dusk and dawn.
  • The annual Council registration of your cat is due on the 10 April each year in Melbourne.
Introducing a new cat to your dog

Cats and dogs can play well together, but it depends on their individual personalities as to whether there will be a match made in heaven or a cat and dog war!

Initially, ensure both parties are safe from the other. They should be kept separate until your cat has settled in and then gradually introduced under strict supervision. Ideally bring your dog in when your cat is relaxed and sitting in a safe place, such as high up on its scratching post. Ensure your dog does not jump up to get to your cat.

To better control your dog (especially large ones), it is a good idea to bring them in on a lead. Reward any calm and friendly behaviour in your dog. Don’t leave your cat and dog together unsupervised.