This section covers what a cat owner buys week in, week out, such as food and litter, plus the bigger one-off purchases like a cat tree, a carrier or a microchip cat flap. Prices are compared across online pet shops, so check the pack size and the price per kilo or litre as well as the headline price.
Food and treats
Most owners feed wet cat food, dry cat food or a mix of both. Wet food adds a lot of moisture to the diet; dry food is convenient, cheaper per meal and can be left in the bowl. For a main meal, look for the word ‘complete’ on the label. Cat treats and snacks are complementary foods and should stay a small part of the day’s ration.
Young cats have their own section in kitten products. Senior, sterilised, urinary and sensitive recipes, veterinary diets and supplements sit under cat supplements and special food.
Litter and hygiene
- Cat litter: clumping clay, silica, wood, paper and plant-based litters
- Litter boxes and litter trays: open, hooded and top-entry trays, liners, scoops and waste bins
- Cat care and grooming: brushes, combs, claw clippers and dental care
- Flea, tick and worming: spot-ons, tablets and collars
Home and play
Scratching is normal behaviour, so a sturdy post or tree from cat trees and scratching posts is the best way to protect the sofa. Add a bed or den from cat baskets and beds, bowls, automatic feeders and drinking fountains from cat bowls and fountains, and wand toys, kickers and puzzle feeders from cat toys.
Getting in, out and about
Cat flaps and nets covers manual and microchip flaps, mounting adaptors and balcony netting. For vet visits, catteries and holidays, see cat carriers and transport.
Common questions
Should I feed my cat wet or dry food?
Both can be complete and balanced, so the choice depends on your cat and your routine. Wet food is around 80 per cent water, which helps cats that drink little; dry food is cheaper per meal and easy to portion. Many owners feed a mix, reducing both portions so the daily total matches the feeding guide.
How many litter trays do I need?
The usual rule is one tray per cat plus one extra, and one on each floor in a house with several levels. Trays should be in quiet spots, away from food, water and noisy appliances such as washing machines.
Can cats drink cow’s milk?
It is best avoided. Many adult cats cannot digest lactose well, and milk can cause an upset stomach. Water is all a cat needs to drink; lactose-reduced cat milk is available as an occasional treat.