When your cat is still a kitten, it's important that you feed it food specifically designed for kittens. Their digestive systems aren't fully matured yet, so they can't handle adult food. As it gets older, you can switch to adult formula food, and when your cat reaches its later years you should switch to foods made specifically for elderly felines. Avoid giving your cat milk on a regular basis. While it's one of cats' most favorite treats, milk can give them urinary problems. Also, don't feed your cat exclusively with scraps and people food. Cat food is designed to provide complete nutrition, and giving your cat something else may deprive them of essential nutrients.

You're going to need food and water dishes for you cat, of course. Almost any bowl or dish will work so long as you clean them regularly. You may want to invest in a mat to place underneath the bowls to help contain spills and messes.

The litter tray is an all-important cat accessory. You can train your cat to go to the bathroom outside, and even cats accustomed to litter boxes will do this on their own, but if your cat stays indoors then you need to invest in a litter tray. They come in all shapes and sizes. Some have hoods which give your cat some privacy and protect you from having to see them going about their business. Plus, these hoods help contain odors. There are even automated litter trays which scoop the litter for you.

Cat litter is another important and necessary product for cat owners. Cat litter has come a long way in recent years. Now the most popular brands are designed to clump to make removal easier and better contain annoying odors.

A scratching post is a very good idea if you don't want your cat to tear up your davenport. Cats need to scratch in order to stretch out and keep their claws in top shape. Scratching posts are usually made from rope or carpeting. If you have a larger cat, you'll want to make sure that the scratching post is big enough. There are also pads made from corrugated cardboard infused with cat litter which no normal cat can ignore. These kinds are replaced whenever the cat totally tears them apart, which they will! They're cheap and available at pet stores and your local super center.

Toys are a good idea to keep you cat occupied. Favorite cats toys usually have catnip inside.

Flea control is important, especially if you have an outdoor cat. Collars are effective, but make sure you get one that'll break away or stretch so your cat doesn't get strangled. Sprays work, too, but these can freak out your cat. Medicines which require just a few applications to the back of the neck seem to work best. They subject your cat to very little stress and last a long time.

You'll want to get a comb or brush for you cat. Make sure the teeth on it are rounded so you don't irritate their skin. Grooming your cat will help reduce shedding and encourage a healthy coat.

Cats are a great pet and will provide years and years of happiness and joy for their owners. With just a few essential products for your cat, you'll have a friend for life.