Bringing home a new dog or cat is exciting, but the first week can feel overwhelming when you are not sure what your pet actually needs on day one. This new pet checklist walks through the essentials for both dogs and cats, from food bowls and a comfortable bed to litter, leashes, grooming basics, and the first veterinary visit. Use it as a practical starting point, then adapt it to your specific animal, home, and budget.
Feeding: bowls, food, and fresh water
Food and water are the first things to sort out. You will want at least one food bowl and one water bowl per pet. Stainless steel and ceramic bowls are easy to clean and tend to hold up well over time. For homes with more than one animal, separate bowls help reduce competition at mealtime.
Choose a food that suits your pet's life stage. Puppies and kittens have different nutritional needs than adult animals, and the packaging on quality pet foods will usually indicate the life stage it is formulated for. If you are unsure which food is right, ask your veterinarian rather than guessing. When you switch foods, transition gradually over several days to give your pet's digestion time to adjust. Always keep clean, fresh water available.
Dog vs. cat feeding notes
Cats are obligate carnivores and often do well with a routine of measured meals and access to fresh water. Some cats prefer wide, shallow bowls. Dogs vary widely by size and energy level, so portion guidance on the package is a starting point that your vet can help refine. Keep human foods that are unsafe for pets, such as chocolate, grapes, onions, and xylitol-sweetened items, well out of reach.
A place to rest: beds and carriers
Every new pet needs a comfortable, quiet place to sleep that belongs to them. A washable bed sized to your animal gives them a sense of security in a new environment. Cats often appreciate a bed placed somewhere elevated or tucked away, while many dogs like a bed near the household's main activity.
A carrier is essential for both cats and dogs, especially for trips to the vet. For cats, a hard-sided carrier with a top opening can make loading easier. For dogs, choose a crate or carrier sized so the animal can stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Introduce the carrier gradually with treats and soft bedding so it feels like a safe space rather than a stressful one.
Bathroom basics: litter and waste supplies
For cats, a litter box is non-negotiable. A common guideline is one box per cat plus one extra, placed in quiet, accessible spots. Start with an unscented litter and a scoop, and clean the box daily to encourage consistent use. If a cat suddenly stops using the box, that can signal a health issue worth raising with your vet.
For dogs, stock up on waste bags for walks and, if you are house-training a puppy, consider training pads for the early weeks. Establishing a regular potty routine and rewarding success helps house-training go more smoothly. You can find litter, bags, and cleanup supplies alongside other basics in our pet supplies collection.
Getting around: collar, leash, and identification
Identification is one of the most important things you can set up early. A well-fitted collar with an ID tag showing your contact information helps a lost pet find its way home. Many owners also ask their veterinarian about microchipping as a permanent form of identification.
Dogs need a sturdy leash and a properly fitted collar or harness for walks and training. A collar should be snug but allow two fingers to fit underneath. Cats that will go outdoors or travel can be fitted with a breakaway collar designed to release under pressure for safety. Even indoor-only cats benefit from wearing ID in case they slip out a door.
Play and enrichment: toys and mental stimulation
Toys are not a luxury; they are part of keeping a pet physically and mentally healthy. Puzzle feeders, chew toys, and interactive toys give animals an outlet for natural behaviors and help prevent boredom-related habits like excessive chewing or scratching.
Cats benefit from scratching posts, which protect your furniture and let them stretch and mark their territory. Wand toys and small balls encourage the stalk-and-pounce play cats love. Dogs enjoy chew toys sized for their jaws, fetch toys, and puzzle games that reward problem-solving. Rotating a few toys in and out keeps things interesting without needing a huge collection.
Grooming and everyday care
Regular grooming keeps your pet comfortable and gives you a chance to notice changes in their skin, coat, and body. Basic grooming supplies include a brush suited to your pet's coat type, nail clippers, and pet-safe shampoo. Short-haired animals need less frequent brushing, while long-haired dogs and cats may need attention several times a week to prevent matting.
Introduce grooming slowly and pair it with praise so your pet learns to tolerate handling of their paws, ears, and mouth. This makes future nail trims and vet exams far less stressful. Dental care is part of the picture too; ask your veterinarian about appropriate tooth-brushing routines and products for your specific pet.
Health basics and the first vet visit
One of the first things to arrange for a new pet is an initial veterinary visit. A vet can give your animal a general checkup, discuss a vaccination schedule appropriate for your pet's age and lifestyle, and answer questions about diet, parasite prevention, and spaying or neutering. Scheduling this visit early helps you start off on the right foot and establishes a relationship with a professional who knows your pet.
Keep any paperwork from a shelter, breeder, or previous owner to share with your vet, including records of vaccinations or treatments the animal may already have received. This article is general guidance only and is not a substitute for professional advice, so let your veterinarian tailor a health plan to your individual dog or cat.
Pet-proofing your home
Before your pet explores freely, walk through your home the way a curious animal might. Secure loose electrical cords, store medications and cleaning products in closed cabinets, and remove or relocate plants that can be toxic to pets. Small objects that could be swallowed should be kept off the floor and low surfaces.
Set up a designated space with the bed, water, and a few toys so your new arrival has a calm home base while they adjust. Baby gates can help you limit access to certain rooms during the settling-in period. If you enjoy setting up spaces for animals, you might also like our guide on backyard bird care for creating a welcoming outdoor environment.
Putting your checklist together
You do not need to buy everything at once. Start with the essentials for the first few days, food and bowls, a bed, a carrier, identification, and litter or waste supplies, then add enrichment and grooming items as you learn your pet's preferences. Pairing the right gear with patience and a first veterinary visit sets both new puppies and new kittens up for a smooth, happy transition. When you are ready to gather the basics, browse our pet supplies collection for everyday essentials.
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