Don’t Overlook These 6 Things Before Adopting Your First Cat


Adopting your first cat is a huge and super exciting decision. You’re probably here because you want to make sure you do your homework before jumping into the wonderful world of cat guardianship. 

This article presents 6 critical considerations that many overlook before starting out with a new kitty.


Kitten with half and half gray/orange face peering out through a heart-shaped hole in box.

The 6 Considerations You Can’t Overlook

1. Financial Reality

Cat ownership takes more financial planning than many realize. Plan for startup costs between $200-400 to properly equip your home with essentials like a litter box, food bowls, bed, and basic cat furniture.

Your monthly cat budget should account for quality food, litter, and routine supplies – typically $50-100 depending on your choices. 

Regular vet care adds another layer of expense, with annual checkups and vaccinations.

Most importantly, you need an emergency fund of $1,000-2,000. Accidents and unexpected vet visits can arise at any time, and having this safety net will mean you can address what’s needed without financial strain.

2. Living Space Suitability

Your home needs to function both as a safe haven and an enriching environment for your cat. 

Figure out where you’ll place essential items like the litter box and feeding station – these need separate, accessible locations that work for both you and your cat.

Cats need vertical space to feel secure and exercise natural behaviors. Window access is important because it provides crucial environmental enrichment, while safe hiding spots help them feel protected. 

Take time to cat-proof and optimize your space by securing windows, managing cords, and removing toxic plants.

The size of your home matters less than how you optimize it for feline comfort and safety. Even small spaces can work well when thoughtfully arranged with a cat’s needs in mind.

3. Lifestyle Compatibility

Your daily routine significantly impacts your cat’s wellbeing. Cats thrive on consistency, so consider how your work schedule, social life, and travel habits might affect your ability to provide regular care and attention.

While often considered low-maintenance pets, cats’ basic needs include daily feeding, regular play sessions, and social interaction. When their needs are met, “problem behaviors” become more likely.

Most cats adapt well to their owner’s schedule, but they don’t do well with constant disruption or long periods alone.

Think about whether your lifestyle allows for both routine care and daily quality time with your cat. 

4. Support System

Building a reliable support network is crucial for successful cat ownership. Start by finding a trusted veterinarian and learning the location of the nearest emergency vet clinic. 

Establish relationships with potential pet sitters before you need them. I myself have overlooked this one, and it has resulted in unnecessary stress for me and my cats!

You’ll also want to connect with knowledge resources – whether that’s experienced cat owners, online communities, or local pet care professionals. Having guidance available when questions or challenges arise makes a significant difference in your cat care journey.

Consider who could provide backup care in emergencies. Even the most devoted cat guardians occasionally need help, so having a support system in place provides peace of mind.

5. Personal Readiness

Cat ownership is a long-term commitment – typically 15-20 years. Beyond the practical considerations, evaluate your emotional readiness for this responsibility.

Are you prepared to provide consistent care through various life changes? Do you have the patience to work through potential behavior challenges?

Consider how a cat will fit into your future plans. Think about your tolerance for typical cat behaviors like scratching, early morning activity, or vocal demands for attention.

Everyone in your household should agree not just to having a cat, but to participating in its care.

Remember that the adjustment period with a new cat can take weeks or even months. Your readiness to accept this process and commit to working through challenges greatly influences success.

6. The Indoor vs Outdoor Decision

This one is on the list because it’s hard to change things up once routines have been established.

Many people feel torn here, but we think the indoor vs outdoor decision is pretty clear once you’re aware of the risks of giving your cat uncontrolled outdoor access

Fact is, indoor cats typically live much longer – often 15-20 years compared to 5-10 years for outdoor cats. While cats may seem naturally drawn to outdoor exploration, the risks rarely outweigh the benefits.

This is especially true in urban and suburban areas because of car traffic. But even in rural areas, the risks are many.

Outdoor cats face dangers not only from road traffic, but also predators, diseases, parasites, and even well-meaning neighbors who might feed them harmful foods, or take them in thinking they need a home. 

Then there are not no so well meaning neighbors who see cats as a nuisance or worse.

They’re also exposed to conflicts with other cats, increasing injury and illness risks. 

Additionally, outdoor cats have a major impact on local wildlife, particularly birds, making indoor living more environmentally responsible. The number of birds killed every year by domestic cats is truly staggering.

Finding safe solutions to the indoor-outdoor dilemma takes a bit of planning but proves far easier than transitioning an outdoor cat to indoor living later. 

Next Steps

If you’ve thoughtfully considered these factors and feel prepared, your next step is researching adoption options in your area. You can also consider fostering first to gain hands-on experience with cat care (and end up with some really great cats, like I did).

Take our comprehensive Should I Get a Cat Quiz for additional guidance on your readiness for cat ownership. 

Once you know you’re ready for the commitment, we have lots of articles on how to go about finding your new cat, and how to prepare for it all so you get off to a great start in cat guardianship.

Explore other articles in our Cat Ownership Readiness Collection:

VerveCat is supported by readers.  When you purchase via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no added cost to you.

The information provided here is not meant to replace professional guidance from your own veterinarian or cat behavior specialist.

About VerveCat

VerveCat.com launched in Fall 2023 and aims to grow into a comprehensive source of information, resources, and reviews for every part of feline companionship.

Whether you’re an experienced cat owner or just getting started on your cat life journey, we’re glad you stopped by and hope you’ll find things here to help you along the way.

Read more about the VerveCat project and the sentient beings behind it on our About Page.