New Cat & Dog Family Handbook

Cat & Dog Care Handbook for New Families

Welcome to Pet Parenthood!

Congratulations on bringing a cat or dog into your home! Pets are loving, loyal, and bring joy to our lives. This guide will help you understand their needs and provide the best care possible.

Cat Care Guide

1. Preparing Your Home

Essential Supplies:

  • Litter Box & Litter – Choose a large, open or covered box with clumping litter.
  • Food & Water Bowls – Stainless steel or ceramic is best.
  • Cat Bed – A cozy space where your cat can feel secure.
  • Scratching Post – Helps with natural scratching behavior.
  • Toys – Interactive toys like feather wands or balls keep cats engaged.
  • Carrier – A safe way to transport your cat.

Creating a Safe Space:

  • Designate a quiet area for your cat to adjust.
  • Keep toxic plants, chemicals, and small objects out of reach.
  • Ensure windows and balconies are secure.

2. Nutrition & Hydration

Feeding Guide:

  • Kittens (Under 1 Year) – High-protein kitten food, 3–4 small meals a day.
  • Adults (1–7 Years) – Balanced wet/dry cat food, 2 meals a day.
  • Seniors (7+ Years) – Special diet for aging cats, consult your vet.

Water Intake:

  • Provide fresh water daily.
  • Consider a cat water fountain to encourage drinking.

3. Litter Box Training

Choosing the Right Box:

  • 1 litter box per cat, plus one extra.
  • Place in a quiet, accessible location.

Training Steps:

  1. Show your cat the box when they arrive.
  2. Place them in the box after meals and naps.
  3. Keep it clean—scoop daily and change litter weekly.

Troubleshooting:

  • If your cat stops using the litter box, check for stress, dirty litter, or health issues.

4. Grooming & Hygiene

  • Brushing – Short-haired cats: once a week; long-haired cats: daily.
  • Nail Trimming – Every 2–3 weeks.
  • Dental Care – Brush teeth regularly with cat-safe toothpaste.
  • Ear & Eye Cleaning – Wipe gently with a damp cloth if needed.

5. Health & Veterinary Care

Regular Vet Visits:

  • First check-up within the first few weeks of adoption.
  • Annual wellness exams.
  • Vaccinations as recommended by your vet.

Common Health Concerns:

  • Vomiting or diarrhea – Could indicate dietary issues or illness.
  • Excessive scratching – Check for fleas or skin conditions.
  • Unusual behavior – Sudden aggression or hiding may signal stress or sickness.

Spaying/Neutering:

  • Helps prevent unwanted litters and improves behavior.

6. Behavior & Training

Socialization:

  • Give your cat time to adjust to new people and pets.
  • Use treats and praise for positive reinforcement.

Common Behavioral Issues:

  • Scratching Furniture? Provide a scratching post and use catnip to attract them.
  • Jumping on Counters? Use deterrents like double-sided tape or motion-activated sprays.

Playtime & Enrichment:

  • 10–15 minutes of play twice a day.
  • Rotate toys to keep them engaged.

7. Traveling with Your Cat

Vet Visits & Car Travel:

  • Acclimate your cat to the carrier by leaving it open at home.
  • Use a secure carrier and keep the car quiet during travel.

Leaving Your Cat Home:

  • Arrange a pet sitter or automated feeders if away for extended periods.

8. Understanding Your Cat’s Emotions

Signs of Stress:

  • Excessive hiding, grooming, or vocalizing.

How to Reduce Stress:

  • Provide routine, safe spaces, and interactive play.

Dog Care Guide

1. Preparing Your Home

Essential Supplies:

  • Dog Bed – A comfortable place for rest.
  • Food & Water Bowls – Non-slip, stainless steel or ceramic.
  • Leash & Collar – Properly fitted for control and identification.
  • Crate or Playpen – Helps with training and provides a safe space.
  • Chew Toys – Helps with teething and mental stimulation.
  • Grooming Tools – Brushes, nail clippers, and pet shampoo.

Creating a Safe Space:

  • Puppy-proof your home by removing small objects and securing electrical cords.
  • Provide a designated potty area outside.
  • Keep harmful foods and chemicals out of reach.

2. Nutrition & Feeding

Feeding Guide:

  • Puppies (Under 1 Year) – High-protein puppy food, 3–4 meals a day.
  • Adults (1–7 Years) – Balanced diet with wet/dry food, 2 meals a day.
  • Seniors (7+ Years) – Adjusted diet for aging dogs, consult your vet.

Hydration:

  • Fresh water should always be available.

3. House Training

Steps to Success:

  1. Take your dog outside frequently, especially after eating or sleeping.
  2. Use positive reinforcement when they potty outside.
  3. Avoid punishment—redirect accidents calmly.

4. Grooming & Hygiene

  • Brushing – Regular brushing to prevent matting.
  • Bathing – Once a month or as needed.
  • Nail Trimming – Every 3–4 weeks.
  • Dental Care – Brush teeth regularly with dog-safe toothpaste.

5. Health & Veterinary Care

  • Regular check-ups and vaccinations.
  • Monitor for signs of illness like lethargy, vomiting, or excessive scratching.
  • Spaying/neutering is recommended.

6. Training & Behavior

  • Basic Commands – Sit, stay, come, and heel.
  • Socialization – Expose your dog to new people and environments early.
  • Exercise – Daily walks and playtime.

7. Traveling with Your Dog

  • Use a secure harness or crate in the car.
  • Never leave a dog in a hot car.

Final Thoughts

Caring for a cat or dog is a rewarding journey. With love, patience, and proper care, your pet will bring joy to your life for years to come.

For more resources and pet products, visit our website!

Need Help?

For questions about pet care, visit our FAQ page or contact your vet!