Guide to Getting a Cat
Bringing a cat into your home can be a rewarding experience. While cats are generally independent and low-maintenance, they still require preparation, care and long-term commitment.
Take time to ensure you’re ready before bringing one home.
Please note: This guide is for general information only. It does not constitute legal advice, and we do not accept liability for any loss arising from reliance on this guide.
Getting Your Cat
Cats are often acquired from:
Animal shelters (e.g. ISPCA)
Veterinary clinics
Families with new litters
If adopting a stray cat or kitten, ask your vet to check for common illnesses such as cat flu.
If purchasing from an independent source or trader:
Ask to see where the cat has been kept.
Avoid meeting in outside or neutral locations only.
If you suspect cruelty or neglect, contact the relevant authorities.
Before bringing a cat home, confirm that no one in your household has a cat allergy, which is quite common.
Preparing Your Home
Cats are generally self-sufficient and adapt well to home environments.
Sleeping Arrangements
You can provide a bed — but don’t be surprised if your cat chooses her own favourite spot, often tucked away in wardrobes or behind curtains.
Kittens especially love hiding in small, dark spaces. It’s normal to “lose” them temporarily while they explore.
Litter Tray Setup
Have a litter tray ready before your cat arrives.
Place it in a quiet area.
Keep it away from feeding areas.
Cats are naturally clean animals and typically adapt to litter trays quickly.
Toys & Enrichment
Kittens are very playful.
Simple toys such as:
Balls
String toys
Soft play items
can keep them entertained and stimulated.
Hygiene & Cleaning
Litter tray hygiene is essential.
Clean the tray daily.
Dispose of soiled litter safely.
Wash hands thoroughly before and after cleaning.
Children and dogs should not have access to the litter tray.
Pregnant women and individuals with weakened immune systems should avoid handling cat litter due to the risk of toxoplasmosis.
Cats groom themselves regularly, but:
Longhaired cats require brushing.
Expect regular shedding, particularly with longhaired breeds.
Veterinary Care & Costs
Cats require routine vaccinations.
Budget approximately €50–€70 for initial vaccinations.
If your cat has cat flu, antibiotics may be required.
Neutering
Vets generally recommend neutering unless breeding is intended.
Approximate costs:
Female (spaying): up to €80
Male (castration): up to €50
Unneutered male cats may spray indoors.
Feeding
Provide high-quality cat food from a reputable brand.
Kittens require specially formulated kitten food.
Kittens need milk until eight weeks old — after that, no milk is required.
Most kittens will have received their mother’s milk. If hand-rearing, formula milk is available from pet stores or vet clinics.
Love & Attention
While cats don’t need daily walks like dogs, they do require attention, interaction and affection.
They are loyal animals who bond strongly once trust is established.
Before committing, consider whether you can provide care, companionship and veterinary support for the lifetime of the cat.
We spoke to Dan O’Neill, Veterinary Surgeon with Abbeyside Veterinary Hospital, Kilkenny, in preparing this guide.
Contact Us
If you have any further questions or would like to chat, please reach out to our Customer Support team.