If you’re a cat person, there’s no mistaking it. You’re going to be bringing a cat home at some point. I can’t blame you either. They make for highly unique, entertaining pets with absolute bundles of personality. They’re well known for how independent [and sometimes aloof] they can be. But that doesn’t mean they’re like a houseplant. They still need quite a bit of attention. Even if they don’t necessarily want it. You still have to prepare yourself and your home to welcome your new friend. They have needs of their own and we’re going to look at just a few of the major ones below.

As any animal’s owner, your first concern should always be their health and comfort. We imagine that if you’re on the internet reading up about cats, you’re not in danger of giving them a neglectful home. However, you also need to pay the right attention to their health. Take them to the vet early and get a schedule of all the vaccinations and pest treatments they’re going to need. Gocompare.com recommends looking at your insurance options, too. This way you always have enough set aside for health care costs.

As soon as you invite a cat into your home, expect them to start treating it like theirs. Of course, you want them to have all they need. Otherwise they might go else or take it out on your furniture, instead. We’re thinking scratching posts, here. But they also need a litter and a designated place to sleep [even if they don’t always use it]. You should also get them toys and have them learn which toys are actually theirs. Every time they try to start playing with your slipper or something else, get their attention with a toy instead.

First, you need to think about what kind of lifestyle you’re going to share with your new kitty. An odd concept, but one that matters. Are you looking for a cat that likes affection and attention and could happily spend hours bothering you? Or are you more for a cat that’s a family member but can live around your work lifestyle and be independent? Depending on your answer, purina.com recommends looking at different breeds. Much like dogs, different breeds of cats have different temperaments. So pick the breed of cat you get for more than just their looks.

Looking after any pet is going to be something of a drain on your finances. Or at least a considerable cost for as long as you have them. You probably know you’re going to have to set aside insurance and money for medication, already. But there are plenty of ways to save money on them while still providing everything they need. For example, if you’re looking to spoil your kitten, you might want to buy them a toy. However, by keeping a supply of the much cheaper herbal catnip, you’ll both be a lot happier.