* This blog post is a summary of this video.

Buying Toys and Essentials for an Excited New Cat Owner

Table of Contents

Introduction: My New Cat Companion

I recently adopted a new kitten and am excited to share my journey as a first-time cat owner. In this video, filmed on February 23rd, just a few days before my new feline friend's arrival, I take you along as I go on a shopping spree to purchase toys and essentials for my soon-to-be furry companion.

Looking back, I had a cat when I was around 5 or 6 years old named Pagny. Unfortunately, I discovered I was severely allergic to cats when Pagny would jump on my bed and lick my nose in the morning. It was a heartbreaking realization that I couldn't keep the cat due to my allergies. Pagny was quickly rehomed to a loving family, but I had given up on the idea of owning a cat until now.

Starting With the Basics: Amazon Toy Shopping

With my new kitten arriving soon, I headed to Amazon to start shopping for some basic toys. I began by searching for 'cat toys' and was immediately greeted with a wide array of options. The first item that caught my eye was a flying saucer-shaped toy filled with catnip and balls. Catnip is an herb that cats seem to go crazy for, so I added it to my cart to see how my kitten would react.

As I continued browsing, I came across a variety of interactive toys, including a fishing pole-style wand with different attachments like feathers and strings. These types of toys allow you to engage your cat in playtime and seemed like a great choice for bonding with my new pet.

Interlude: A Funny Feline Anecdote

As I was shopping, I couldn't help but recall a funny memory from my childhood. My first cat, Pagny, loved to play with the simplest things, like cardboard boxes. No matter how many fancy toys I bought, she always seemed more interested in the packaging itself. It's a common joke among cat owners that their pets will often ignore expensive toys in favor of a simple cardboard box or piece of paper.

Catnip-Infused Toys and Scratching Surfaces

Continuing my shopping spree, I came across a variety of catnip-infused toys and scratching surfaces. Catnip is a natural herb that has a calming effect on cats and can help encourage playtime and scratching behavior. I decided to add a catnip-filled scratching pad to my cart, hopeful that it would help train my kitten to scratch on appropriate surfaces.

Another item that caught my eye was a catnip-infused rug or mat. These types of toys are designed to encourage your cat to play and roll around on the surface, releasing the catnip scent and stimulating their natural instincts. I added one to my cart, eager to see how my kitten would respond to the enticing aroma.

Interactive and Technological Toys

As I continued browsing, I was amazed by the range of interactive and technological toys available for cats. From fishing pole-style toys to remote-controlled mice and even automatic treat dispensers, there were so many options to choose from.

One toy that really caught my attention was an electronic fish that simulates realistic swimming movements. I couldn't help but imagine my kitten diving and pouncing at this lifelike toy, and I knew I had to add it to my cart.

Fishing Pole Style Toys

The fishing pole-style toys were a big hit with my kitten. These wands allow you to dangle different attachments like feathers or strings in front of your cat, encouraging them to jump, pounce, and chase. I decided to get a variety of these toys with different attachments to keep playtime interesting and engaging for my new pet.

Remote Controlled Toys

I also couldn't resist adding a few remote-controlled toys to my cart. These toys, often in the shape of mice or other small animals, can be controlled with a handheld remote, allowing you to mimic the movements of prey and keep your cat entertained and active. While these toys seemed like a lot of fun for me as the owner, I quickly discovered that my kitten wasn't as keen on the loud noises and fast movements of these types of toys. I learned that he preferred quieter, more subtle toys that didn't move too quickly or make a lot of noise.

Testing the Toys and Observing my Cat's Preferences

As I continued shopping, I realized that this experience was not just about buying toys, but also about learning my kitten's personality and preferences. With each new toy I added to the cart, I was eager to see how he would respond and what types of playtime he seemed to enjoy the most.

One recurring theme I noticed was that my kitten wasn't particularly interested in toys that moved too quickly or made loud noises. While I had high hopes for some of the remote-controlled toys and electronic gadgets, he seemed to prefer simpler, quieter toys that allowed him to engage at his own pace.

I also discovered that my kitten loved anything with catnip, as well as toys that allowed him to scratch and claw. The scratching pads and catnip-infused mats and rugs were a big hit, and I made a mental note to stock up on these types of toys and surfaces to help encourage his natural scratching behavior.

Final Thoughts and Conclusion

As my shopping spree came to an end, I realized that I had perhaps gone a bit overboard. With over a dozen toys and accessories in my cart, it was clear that I had gotten carried away in my excitement to spoil my new furry friend.

However, this experience taught me so much about my kitten's preferences and personality before he even arrived. I learned that he wasn't particularly interested in loud, fast-moving toys, but rather preferred quieter, simpler playthings that allowed him to engage at his own pace. I also discovered his love for catnip and scratching surfaces, which would be invaluable knowledge as I worked to create a stimulating and enriching environment for him.

While some of the toys may not have been a hit, I was grateful for the opportunity to learn and observe my kitten's behavior. As a first-time cat owner, this shopping spree was not only about spoiling my new pet but also about learning how to be the best possible companion and caretaker for him.

FAQ

Q: What kinds of toys are best for cats?
A: Cats tend to enjoy toys that engage their natural hunting instincts, such as wands with feathers or strings, balls that move erratically, and scratching posts or pads. Interactive toys that mimic prey movement can also be very appealing.

Q: Is catnip safe for cats?
A: Yes, catnip is safe and non-addictive for cats. It causes a temporary, harmless 'high' reaction that most cats enjoy, making toys infused with catnip especially fun for them to play with.

Q: How do I know if my cat likes a particular toy?
A: Observe how your cat reacts to different toys. Signs of enjoyment include stalking, pouncing, chasing, and kicking at the toy with their hind legs. Ignore or avoidance usually indicates lack of interest.

Q: Can I leave my cat alone with toys?
A: Yes, providing fun toys is a great way to keep your cat entertained and active when you can't directly play with them. Just be sure any toys can't be ingested or pose a choking hazard.

Q: How many toys does a cat need?
A: Cats can get bored with the same toys, so it's good to have a variety - at least 5-10 different toys that you can rotate to keep things interesting for your cat.

Q: What other essentials should I buy for a new cat?
A: In addition to toys, you'll need food and water bowls, a litter box, scratching posts, bedding, a carrier, grooming supplies, and cat treats. Kitten-proofing your home is also important.

Q: How can I get my cat used to being transported in a carrier?
A: Get your cat comfortable with the carrier well before any trips. Leave it out with bedding and treats inside so they can explore it comfortably. Only use it for very short trips at first.

Q: How often should I play with my cat?
A: Aim to play with your cat for at least two 15-20 minute interactive sessions per day, using toys that allow you to mimic the movements of prey.

Q: Is it better to buy toys for myself or my cat?
A: When shopping for cat toys, keep in mind your cat's interests and natural behaviors. Some toys may be appealing to you but not interest your cat much.

Q: Can cats watch TV or do puzzles?
A: Some cats will be entertained by videos of birds or squirrels on TV. Puzzle feeders or treat balls can also be mentally stimulating for cats.

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