Bringing a new cat home is an exciting time, filled with anticipation, cuddles, and probably a bit of online shopping. Pet stores—both physical and virtual—are packed with products promising to make your life (and your cat’s) easier, happier, and more stylish. But how many of these are truly essential? And how many are just cleverly marketed “nice-to-haves”?

In this guide, we’ll walk you through a no-nonsense cat essentials checklist, separating the absolute must-haves from the trendy extras. Whether you’re a first-time cat owner or looking to streamline your supplies, this is the only list you’ll need.

Must-Have Cat Essentials (The Real Deal)

These are the core items every cat owner should have from day one. They contribute directly to your cat’s health, comfort, and basic needs.

1. Litter Box and Litter

Essential
Every cat needs a clean, accessible place to go to the bathroom. Choose a litter box that’s large enough for your cat to comfortably turn around in. Covered boxes can trap odors but may make some cats feel trapped.

  • Tip: For multi-cat households, have one litter box per cat, plus one extra.
  • Choose unscented, clumping litter for easy cleanup and to avoid overwhelming your cat’s sensitive nose.

2. Food and Water Bowls

Essential
You’ll need sturdy, easy-to-clean bowls for food and water. Stainless steel or ceramic are ideal—they’re hygienic and less likely to cause allergic reactions than plastic.

  • Pro tip: Elevating bowls can help older cats or those with joint issues eat more comfortably.

3. High-Quality Cat Food

Essential
Nutrition is the foundation of your cat’s health. Invest in high-quality cat food appropriate for their age (kitten, adult, or senior), health needs, and lifestyle (indoor vs. outdoor).

  • Look for food with named protein sources (e.g., chicken, salmon), minimal fillers, and AAFCO certification.

4. Scratching Posts or Pads

Essential
Cats need to scratch—it helps them stretch, maintain claw health, and mark territory. Providing designated scratching surfaces saves your furniture.

  • Vertical and horizontal options are ideal. Try sisal, cardboard, or carpeted versions to see what your cat prefers.

5. Carrier

Essential
A sturdy, well-ventilated carrier is a must for vet visits, travel, and emergencies. It should be secure but easy to load and clean.

  • Soft-sided carriers are great for light travel, while hard-shell carriers offer better protection during longer trips.

6. Basic Grooming Tools

Essential
Cats groom themselves, but they still need your help—especially long-haired breeds. A good brush reduces shedding, hairballs, and mats.

  • Nail clippers or a scratch pad will help manage claws.
  • Keep a gentle, cat-safe shampoo on hand for occasional cleaning (though many cats rarely need a bath).

7. Identification (Even for Indoor Cats)

Essential
Indoor cats can escape, and without ID, getting them back is much harder. A breakaway collar with an ID tag and a microchip offers the best protection.

Nice-to-Have (But Not Necessarily Essential)

These items can make life more convenient or enjoyable for you and your cat, but they’re not strictly necessary.

1. Water Fountain

Nice-to-Have
Many cats prefer running water. A fountain can encourage hydration, especially in cats prone to urinary or kidney issues. But a clean bowl of fresh water changed daily works just fine for most.

2. Automatic Feeders

Nice-to-Have
Great for portion control or feeding on a regular schedule when you’re away. But for most owners, manual feeding is more personal and perfectly effective.

3. Cat Tree or Condo

Nice-to-Have (But Close to Essential for Active Cats)
Cat trees provide vertical space, scratching surfaces, and cozy nap spots. They’re not essential, but if you have the space and an energetic or curious cat, they’re an excellent investment.

4. Interactive Toys

Nice-to-Have
Cats need play and stimulation, especially indoor cats. Wand toys, laser pointers, and puzzle feeders are excellent for exercise and bonding. You don’t need a huge collection—a few reliable favorites will do.

5. Window Perch or Hammock

Nice-to-Have
Cats love to watch the world go by. A window perch can keep them entertained for hours. But a cozy spot near any sunny window often serves the same purpose.

Overhyped (Save Your Money)

These items are often marketed as essentials, but they’re usually unnecessary or ineffective.

1. Cat Clothes and Costumes

Overhyped
Unless it’s for medical reasons (like a post-surgery onesie), most cats hate wearing clothes. It’s cute for photos but often causes stress and discomfort.

2. Litter Box Furniture or Cabinets

Overhyped
These look great in your home but can make cleaning harder and discourage proper ventilation, leading to odors. Simpler setups are often better for both you and your cat.

3. Luxury Cat Beds

Overhyped
Cats love comfort, but they often ignore pricey beds in favor of cardboard boxes or your laundry basket. A soft blanket in a quiet spot is usually all they need.

4. “Smart” Collars and Cameras

Overhyped
While these tech gadgets offer interesting features, most cat owners don’t need real-time GPS or health trackers for indoor cats. And many cats won’t tolerate bulky devices.

5. Designer Litter Mats and Odor Gels

Overhyped
A basic litter mat that catches debris is fine. Scented gels and room deodorizers often irritate cats and can be harmful. Regular scooping and ventilation are more effective.

Bonus: Essentials for Special Situations

Depending on your lifestyle or your cat’s needs, there are a few more items that might become essential.

For Kittens:

  • Teething toys
  • Smaller litter boxes
  • Gentle shampoo for kitten-sensitive skin

For Seniors:

  • Orthopedic beds
  • Steps or ramps
  • Supplements (with vet guidance)

For Multiple Cats:

  • Extra litter boxes
  • Feeding stations
  • Additional scratching areas

Final Thoughts: Invest Wisely, Not Excessively

It’s easy to get carried away when shopping for your new feline friend, especially with the countless Instagram-perfect products out there. But the truth is, cats are often happiest with a few basics and lots of love.

Focus on quality over quantity. Invest in good food, a clean litter setup, and a cozy, enriching environment. The rest? It can wait—or be skipped entirely.

By knowing what’s essential and what’s just hype, you’ll save money, reduce waste, and create a simpler, happier home for your cat.