Checklists and information worth having

New cat supply checklist

• Food and water bowls, placed away from the litter box
• Food appropriate to the cat's life stage
• Litter box and unscented litter
• A carrier that opens from the top as well as the front
• Scratching post (vertical) and cardboard scratcher (horizontal)
• A hiding place: covered bed, box or blanket-covered chair
• Wand toys and a few small throwable toys
• Brush suited to the coat length
• Breakaway collar and ID tag
• Enzymatic cleaner for accidents

Home safety checklist

Worth repeating every few months rather than only when a new cat arrives.

• Remove lilies entirely — they are extremely dangerous to cats
• Store string, ribbon, hair ties and dental floss out of reach
• Secure loose blind cords
• Lock away medications, cleaning products and antifreeze
• Check screens on any window that will be opened
• Check washing machines, dryers and cupboards before closing them
• Keep small swallowable items off floors and counters

Finding spay/neuter services

Access is the main barrier in rural areas, not willingness. Start with your own veterinarian and ask directly about cost and scheduling. Then ask about low-cost clinics, mobile clinics and voucher programs — availability changes frequently, and clinics that were full last month may not be now.

Regional animal welfare organizations and county animal shelters often maintain current lists of low-cost options. If you are unsure where to start, contact us and we will share what general information we have. We cannot guarantee funding or arrange appointments on your behalf.

Preparing for a veterinary visit

• Leave the carrier out at home as ordinary furniture, not only on appointment days
• Line it with familiar-smelling bedding
• Cover the carrier with a towel during transport to reduce visual stress
• Secure the carrier in the vehicle rather than placing it loose on a seat
• Write down your questions before you go — you will forget otherwise
• Bring a record of food, medications and any changes you have noticed

Emergency preparedness

Know your nearest emergency veterinary service and its hours before you need them. Keep a carrier accessible rather than in an attic. If you live somewhere prone to severe weather, keep a few days of food, litter and any medications set aside, along with a copy of vaccination records.