A Definite Pet Necessities Checklist

Have you bought a new pet home and are now overwhelmed with the amount of information that exists on the internet about buying new things? 

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Worry not! Whether you are a brand new pet parent or are just trying to refresh your pet’s needs, we have got you covered. Our Pet Necessities Checklist will take you through a number of things that veterinarians, as well as groomers, suggest equipping your home with if you have a furry friend running around. 

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Before we begin, it is important to understand a few things. What is the purpose of your pet? 

Do you simply want a friend who can keep you company? Do you want a play buddy or an emotional fluffer for your mental health and wellbeing? 

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The reasons to get a pet are numerous, however, having a somewhat clearer idea helps you shop better for them. Here is a definitive (and basic) checklist for items you need when bringing in a new family member. 

Necessary Items for Dogs:

If you’re getting a dog, you probably know they’re high maintenance pets. You have to take them on frequent walks, get them groomed, cleaned and shampooed at regular intervals and also, as a dutiful neighbour, take care of the little droppings that they leave behind on their walks.

With all the care and support that we give them, they return our love with bringing happiness, positivity and undying loyalty into our lives. 

Here is a list of basic things you need when bringing a new puppy or a bigger doggo home -

• Food and water bowls
• Food (canned and/or dry)
• Collar
• Four to six-foot leash
• ID tag with your phone number
• Hard plastic carrier or foldable metal crate
• Dog bed
• Doggy shampoo and conditioner
• Nail clippers
• Canine toothbrush and toothpaste
• Brush or comb (depends on your pet’s coat length and type)
• Super-absorbent paper towels
• Sponge and scrub brush
• Non-toxic cleanser
• Enzymatic odor neutralizer
• Plastic poop baggies (biodegradable ones are best) or pooper scooper
• Absorbent house-training pads
• Variety of toys (a ball, rope, chew toy and puzzle toy are good starts)
• Variety of treats (such as small cookies, larger rawhides, etc.)
• First-aid supplies
• Baby gate(s)

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Necessary Items for Cats:

Cats are less high maintenance when compared to dogs, however, contrary to popular belief, they are not the “easy” pets that people make them out to be. They need attention, care, and lots and lots of toys.

Cats have a natural hunting instinct, therefore getting them toys that they can run behind are the best. It also boosts serotonin levels in them, and keeps them happy, healthy and fit. 

Here is a list of basic things you need when bringing a new kitten or a bigger kitty home -

• Food and water bowls
• Food (canned and/or dry)
• Litter box and scooper
• Kitty litter
• Collar
• ID tag with your phone number
• Hard plastic carrier
• Nail clippers
• Feline toothbrush and toothpaste
• Brush or comb (depends on your cat’s coat length and type)
• Super-absorbent paper towels
• Sponge and scrub brush
• Non-toxic cleanser
• Enzymatic odor neutralizer
• Variety of toys (toys including catnip are a favourite)
• First-aid supplies

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Necessary items for birds: 

There are a few things that you need to have your home equipped with, when bringing in a new pet birdy. Here is a list of recommended things - 

• Water and food bowls 
• Nutritious food
• Regular snacks 
• Cage
• Nail clippers
• Brush or comb (depends on your pet’s coat length and type)
• Super-absorbent paper towels
• Sponge and scrub brush
• Perch
• ID tag with your phone number
• Cage liners
• A hiding place
• Toys
• First-aid supplies

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Necessary items for rabbits:

Caring for rabbits can be a very daunting task, if you do not have the right equipments and things around you. Whether you’re a seasoned owner, or a brand new one, we got you covered with a basic list of things you can have around you when you bring home a new bunny. 

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• A spacious and secure hutch to live comfortably
• Bedding materials
• Litter trays and fillings
• Plenty of hay and other food
• A food bowl or dispenser
• A bottle or water bowl
• Nail clippers
• Brush or comb (depends on your pet’s coat length and type)
• Super-absorbent paper towels
• Sponge and scrub brush
• Toys
• Rabbit-safe cleaning products

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