There was only a year where I didn't have a cat growing up. But my grandparents still did. So I wanted to make a list of what people need to either plan or get during the process of becoming cat owners.
* First off you need to find out if you can afford a cat. I'm not talking the actual buying of the cat. I'm talking about the litter, food, vet expenses, toys, ect. Once you can say yes to expenses then you can move on.
* Secondly you gotta figure out where everything is going. Like litter box and food. If you have little kids or dogs you got to make sure it is out of reach. You also should figure out if the cat is going to be a pure inside cat or not.
* Third is who is taking responsibility. Someone needs to make sure that the cat is fed, water refilled, and litter is cleaned. If the cat has hairballs who is cleaning it up. If the cat not declawed who trimming the nails and teaching cat not to claw on furniture. Who is brushing the cat. Who is willing to give it a bath at least twice a year for ticks and flees. That last one is debatible. Some owners just do a collar others don't even worry about it.
Once you figured out all 3 then we can move on to items. Keep in mind all cats are different. But the main items stay the same.
* litter box ( rule of thumb one box for every cat)
* water bowl
* food bowl
* treats
* cat tower (Optional. I've done both. I say don't go long without one)
* scratching post (if clawed)
* nail clippers (again if clawed I like using actual nail clippers)
* soft paws (optional if clawed)
* cat brush
* toys (lazers, cat nip toys, birds that make sounds, fake mice, ect. There's so many toys for cats it's really a touch and go if they like it. Younger cats love more toys.)
Remember to spay and neuter your cats. So many cats are without homes. Also remember cats are a life long companions. They need to choose you as much as you choose them. They do grow up. Enjoy and love them.