Beginning Tips: What I Wish I Knew Before Bringing Home My First Cat

Adopting your first cat is an exciting and life-changing experience, but there’s a lot to learn along the way. When I adopted Turnip from Pasadena Humane, I thought I was prepared, but there were definitely things I wish I had known beforehand. If you’re thinking of adopting a cat or have just brought one home, here are some lessons from my journey that might help you avoid a few missteps.

1. Be Ready to Learn as You Go

No matter how much research you do, every cat has their own personality, quirks, and preferences. When I first brought Turnip home, I thought I knew everything there was to know about cats, but she quickly showed me otherwise. From her favorite treats (chicken all the way) to her favorite petting spots (the base of her tail), I learned through trial and error what made her tick.

Don’t worry if you make mistakes—it’s all part of the process. Cats are adaptable, and they’ll give you plenty of chances to get things right. Just be open to learning what works best for your new companion.

2. Cats Need More Attention Than You Think

Before adopting Turnip, I thought cats were more independent and didn’t need as much attention. But after a full workday, I quickly realized she had built up a ton of energy. Cats may be less demanding than dogs, but they still need playtime, interaction, and mental stimulation.

Interactive toys, like the Magnetic Catch Wand, have been a lifesaver for keeping Turnip entertained. Having the right toys and dedicating time for play each day keeps your cat happy and helps prevent boredom.

3. Not Every Cat Product Is Worth It

When I first adopted Turnip, I fell for all kinds of fancy products that promised easy care or high entertainment value. One litter, for example, was marketed as “magical” and supposedly required no scooping. Spoiler: it didn’t work, and the smell after a week was terrible!

The lesson here? Stick to the basics. A simple litter box and high-quality toys, like the Magnetic Catch Wand, are often all you need. Some high-tech products sound good in theory, but cats can be particular, and not all products live up to the hype.

4. Cats Need Their Own Space

Cats are territorial creatures and need their own space to feel comfortable. When I brought Turnip home, I didn’t realize how much she would appreciate having a spot of her own. A cat tree or a cozy corner with a scratching post is essential to making your home cat-friendly.

I quickly got Turnip a cat tree, and it made a huge difference in how relaxed she was. Having a space where she could climb, perch, and retreat to made her feel more secure and content. If you’re adopting a cat, make sure they have a dedicated area to call their own.

5. Take Plenty of Photos and Videos

Cats grow up fast, and the time you have with them is precious. One thing I wish I did more of when I first brought Turnip home was taking photos and videos. Even though I have tons of them now, there’s always a moment I wish I had captured.

Whether it’s a cute stretch, a funny meow, or just lounging in the sun, snap those pics and record those videos. You’ll treasure them, and trust me, you’ll never feel like you have enough!

6. Mistakes Are Inevitable (And That’s Okay)

When I first brought Turnip home, I made plenty of mistakes. One time, I tried using a squirt bottle to stop her from scratching the furniture. It didn’t work, and it just made her scared. I quickly learned that positive reinforcement works much better with cats than punishment.

Cats are forgiving, and as long as you’re trying your best, they’ll love you for it. You’ll figure out what works for your cat over time, and those little mistakes won’t make much difference in the long run.

Final Thoughts

Bringing home your first cat is an amazing experience, but it’s also full of learning opportunities. Turnip has taught me so much about what it means to be a good cat parent, and I’ve loved every moment of it. If you’re thinking about adopting a cat, don’t be afraid of making mistakes. Every cat is different, and you’ll learn as you go.

The most important thing is to give your new cat plenty of love and patience—and of course, take lots of pictures along the way. You won’t regret it!