New adult cat checklist for the first 10 days
Set up one adult cat in a quiet room for the first 10 days. Familiar food, familiar litter, secure hiding places, and a predictable routine can ease the move.
What to get
Current adult cat food
Get the brand, formula, and daily amount from the previous caregiver.
10 days of measured portions
Food bowl
1
Water bowls
2
Open litter boxes
2
Current familiar litter
Begin with the type the cat already uses.
Usual fill depth for 2 boxes + 10 days of top-ups
Litter scoop
1
Litter mats
2
Hard-sided carrier
1
Secure hiding boxes
2
Vertical scratching post
1
Horizontal scratcher
1
Interactive toys
2
Washable blankets
2
Breakaway collar and ID tag
1 set
Enzymatic pet cleaner
32 fl oz
Veterinary records
Include current medications, vaccine history, diet, and known behavior concerns.
1 copy
Veterinary clinic contact
1 saved contact
Microchip registration check
Update the owner and phone details if the cat is already chipped.
1
Who this list is for
This checklist is for anyone welcoming an adult cat into their home for the first time. Whether you're adopting from a shelter, taking in a friend's cat, or rehoming a pet, these first 10 days matter. Use this if you want to help your new cat settle in with less stress and fewer surprises.
How to use this list
Start by preparing a quiet, closed room just for your new cat. Lay out two water bowls and one food bowl. Pour out 10 days’ worth of their current cat food, measured for each meal. Set up two open litter boxes with familiar litter at the depth your cat is used to, plus enough for daily top-ups. Place two litter mats under the boxes and keep a scoop handy. Add two secure hiding boxes and a washable blanket or two for comfort. Provide both a vertical scratching post and a horizontal scratcher. Put out a couple of interactive toys. Keep a hard-sided carrier ready if you need to move them. Attach a breakaway collar and ID tag if your vet recommends it.
Common mistakes
Don’t switch food or litter brands right away—familiarity prevents upset stomachs and accidents. Avoid using covered or self-cleaning litter boxes at first; open boxes are less intimidating. Don’t skip hiding places—cats need them to feel safe. Don’t overwhelm your cat with too many toys or people. Keep the setup simple and predictable.
What is on this list
You’ll need 10 days of your cat’s current food, two open litter boxes, familiar litter, a hard-sided carrier, two hiding boxes, two washable blankets, a breakaway collar with ID tag, and both types of scratchers. There are also interactive toys and basic feeding and cleaning supplies. Cross off anything you already have or that your cat brings with them.
After the first 10 days
Once your cat seems settled, you can slowly introduce them to the rest of your home. Gradually swap in new food or litter if needed, one change at a time. Wash blankets and scoop litter daily. If your cat seems anxious or refuses to eat or use the box, check with your vet. Keep the carrier and ID tag handy for any trips or emergencies.
FAQ
Who is "New adult cat checklist for the first 10 days" for?
This checklist is for anyone welcoming an adult cat into their home for the first time. Whether you're adopting from a shelter, taking in a friend's cat, or rehoming a pet, these first 10 days matter. Use this if you want to help your new cat settle in with less stress and fewer surprises.
How should I use "New adult cat checklist for the first 10 days"?
Start by preparing a quiet, closed room just for your new cat. Lay out two water bowls and one food bowl. Pour out 10 days’ worth of their current cat food, measured for each meal. Set up two open litter boxes with familiar litter at the depth your cat is used to, plus enough for daily top-ups. Place two litter mats under the boxes and keep a scoop handy. A…
What should I skip or avoid with "New adult cat checklist for the first 10 days"?
Don’t switch food or litter brands right away—familiarity prevents upset stomachs and accidents. Avoid using covered or self-cleaning litter boxes at first; open boxes are less intimidating. Don’t skip hiding places—cats need them to feel safe. Don’t overwhelm your cat with too many toys or people. Keep the setup simple and predictable.
What is on the "New adult cat checklist for the first 10 days" list?
You’ll need 10 days of your cat’s current food, two open litter boxes, familiar litter, a hard-sided carrier, two hiding boxes, two washable blankets, a breakaway collar with ID tag, and both types of scratchers. There are also interactive toys and basic feeding and cleaning supplies. Cross off anything you already have or that your cat brings with them.
What should I know about after the first 10 days?
Once your cat seems settled, you can slowly introduce them to the rest of your home. Gradually swap in new food or litter if needed, one change at a time. Wash blankets and scoop litter daily. If your cat seems anxious or refuses to eat or use the box, check with your vet. Keep the carrier and ID tag handy for any trips or emergencies.
Related lists
For general planning only. Valedo does not guarantee this list’s accuracy, completeness, or suitability. Verify information before relying on it. Not a substitute for professional advice or safety training.