First Equipment for Cats: Your Checklist for a Great Start

When a cat moves in with you, good preparation is everything. A well-thought-out starter kit makes sure your new housemate feels at home right from the start. Here's a practical checklist with everything you need, plus matching product recommendations from LucyBalu.

Checklist: Your cat's starter equipment at a glance

✅ Sleeping spot
✅ Food bowls
✅ Litter box and litter
✅ Scratching furniture
✅ Toys
✅ Carrier
✅ Grooming essentials
✅ Food and treats
✅ Collar with tracker for outdoor cats

1. Sleeping spot: Creating a cosy home

Cats love a place to retreat to. A comfortable, safe sleeping spot is therefore essential.

Recommendation: The Kratzbett from LucyBalu combines a cosy sleeping spot with a place to scratch – perfect for both relaxed and active moments. You'll find many more snug sleeping spots HERE.

2. Food and water bowls: Hygienic and stylish

A cat needs its own bowls for food and water. Make sure they're non-slip and easy to clean. Ideally, the bowls should be dishwasher-safe. You'll find a selection of stylish, easy-care bowls HERE.

Tip: A silicone bowl mat makes any bowl non-slip and protects your floor.

3. Litter box and litter

Cleanliness matters enormously to cats. Get a spacious litter box and the right litter for a pleasant environment.

Tip: Place the litter box in a quiet spot and clean it regularly to prevent odours.

4. Scratching options: Protecting furniture and caring for claws

Scratching is a natural need for cats. Scratching posts or dedicated scratching furniture are a must.

Recommendation: Put together your own scratching and climbing wall HERE, tailored perfectly to your needs and your cat's.

5. Toys: For enrichment and exercise

Cats are curious, active animals. A variety of toys keeps things interesting and gets them moving.

Recommendation: Choose toys made from natural materials such as wool felt or matatabi. The natural scent is especially appealing and stimulating for cats.

6. Carrier: Safe on the go

A secure carrier is important for vet visits or travel. It should be well ventilated and close securely.

7. Grooming essentials: Keeping an eye on coat and claws

Brushes, claw clippers and the like belong in the basic kit, especially for long-haired cats. Dental care shouldn't be neglected either – for example with the help of matatabi sticks.

Brushing a cat – coat care

8. Food and treats: Getting nutrition right from the start

Get high-quality food that suits your cat's needs. Treats are great as a reward or for training. It's best to ask your vet, breeder or animal shelter for advice here.

DINE raised cat food bowl

9. Safety at home: Minimising hazards

Cats are curious – so secure windows, balconies and other potential danger spots. Avoid toxic plants and keep potentially dangerous items out of your cat's (or cats') reach.

10. For outdoor cats: A cat collar with tracker

Outdoor cats are often out and about for hours, exploring their surroundings. A cat collar (such as the NEMO or DORI) with a built-in AirTag means you always know where your darling is right now. These devices are lightweight, comfortable and can be paired with an app, so you're informed about your cat's movements at any time.

Tip: Always make sure the collar – as with LucyBalu – has a safety buckle that releases in an emergency to prevent injuries.