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The COVID-19 pandemic prompted a surge in pet adoptions in many countries as most of us are forced to remain in our homes during lockdowns. Many crave for support and companionship during these trying times, especially those of us living alone. People are turning to welcoming fur babies into their lives to fill the gaps left by social gatherings and physical activities which we used to enjoy pre-pandemic.

I, for one, was able to adopt a Male Balinese kitten who I decided to name Tesla. He brought a huge amount of positive energy into my home. He’s a playful and energetic little baby, with blue eyes and white fur, guaranteed to make anyone swoon by his cuteness.

But of course, the journey to getting Tesla adjusted to a new environment in the middle of a health crisis was not easy. You have to make sure your little furry bundle is not anxious and fearful of his new home, and that he gets to enjoy your company as much as you do his.

Here are some tips I can share on preparing for adopting a cat during the pandemic.

1. Be mindful of lockdown restrictions when preparing the essentials

It may have been very easy to buy necessary pet items pre-pandemic, but at this time, you have to be mindful of pandemic restrictions in your localities. First, you must prepare a checklist of the basic items you’ll need. For a cat, you will need a cage, a litter box, cat food, a few toys, a carrier, a food bowl, and a scratching post, to name a few. You do not have to buy them all at once, but always assess which items are most needed at a given time.

Consider buying things online if there are strict lockdown measures in your area. If you want to go to a pet store so you can personally check out the items, just find the nearest one in your area and make do with whatever’s available at that store. Groceries usually offer basic items for pets like cat food or litter. 

But always keep in minds that we are still living in a pandemic and even pets can get infected. So only leave your homes when necessary.

2. Buy deodorizer for your cat’s litter and place the box strategically in your home

Since you’ll be spending most of your time indoors, it’s very important to keep cat litters fresh and deodorized. 

Since I live in a loft-type studio unit with no balcony, I chose to place my cat’s litter box inside my own bathroom, right beside my toilet. But, ideally, a cat’s litter box should be placed somewhere with good air circulation. 

You must also choose a kind and brand of litter that works best for you. For Tesla, I use the clumping cat litter, but others would recommend the Tofu kind. Of course, it depends on your and your cat’s needs and preference.

Cat litter deodorizing spray or powder may also come in handy. I use the Arm & Hammer products as they work almost instantly in killing the foul smell of my cat’s poop and pee.  

3. Keep your cats busy indoors

Luckily, cats prefer the indoors, so they are perfect quarantine buddies. Still,  it’s very important that your cat never runs out of things to do inside the house. Buy them toys or scratching posts to encourage them not to play with your household items like your sofa or electrical wires when they get bored.

Also keep in mind that even though we get to stay with our pets 24/7 at this time, we might still end up busy when working from home. 

You may want to consider buying toys that are interactive like feather wands. Whenever you take a break from work, play with your cats a bit and shower them with love and attention. And when it’s time to leave them alone, give them toys that they can play with on their own like small balls or stuffed animals.

4. Schedule visits to the vet

It’s best to have a schedule for your vet visits especially during this pandemic so you can prevent long lines. Though there are mobility restrictions, do not skip your vet appointments. Remember that our pets can also be vulnerable to diseases and it is best to keep them healthy and protected at all times.

If vet clinics are not accessible, there are home remedies you can try if ever your cat is sick or if they need deworming. Just make sure that you get your information from a credible source and you closely follow instructions to make sure you are not doing anything harmful to your kitty.

5. Just enjoy the ride

Though you are currently limited to the four corners of your home, you can use this time to be creative in forming bonding activities with your fur babies. 

Some cat parents are learning how to groom their own cats themselves as their local pet salons are closed during quarantine. Your kitties can also join you for Netflix and chill. Just make sure you have some treats ready if they go hungry in the middle of it. 

One of my favorite moments with Tesla was when he finally learned how to fetch. I began training him to do this trick when he was three years old using his favorite toys. I learned how to train him by watching youtube tutorials and reading other blogs. I have to admit that I was a #ProudMomma the first time he was able to fetch me a small plastic ball; the only item he can carry using his mouth at the time.

That’s it for now! Have fun with your furry and adorable quarantine buddies!