Bringing home your first cat is an exciting milestone regardless of if you’ve dreamed of having a feline companion for years or only recently decided you’re ready for a pet. But with that excitement comes responsibility; cats may be independent creatures, but they still rely on you for care, security, and a suitable environment. To help you start your journey off on the right paw, here’s a guide to the key dos and don’ts of getting your first cat in the Eastbourne and Hailsham area.
DO: Research Before You Commit
Before you start browsing rescue websites or scrolling through kittens on social media, take a moment to learn what owning a cat really involves. Cats can live up to 20 years or more, so this is a long-term commitment. Think about your lifestyle, work schedule, budget, and living situation, all of which influence whether a cat is the right pet for you, and what kind of cat might suit you best.
Ask yourself:
- Do I have time each day to feed, play with, and care for a cat?
- Can I afford vet bills, food, litter, and insurance?
- Am I prepared to care for a cat if I move home or have lifestyle changes?
DON’T: Rush Into Getting a Kitten
Kittens are adorable but they’re also hard work. They need constant attention, training, and socialisation, especially in the early weeks and if they’ve been neutered. If you’re working full-time or aren’t home much during the day, a young kitten might not be the best choice.
If your heart is set on a kitten, DO your research. If you’re buying privately:
- Avoid buying from online classified sites with vague or suspicious listings.
- Visit the breeder in person to see the kittens and their environment.
- Ask to see the mother cat and any health records or vaccinations.
- Ensure the kitten is at least 8 weeks old (ideally 10–12 weeks) before taking them home.
Beware of anyone who refuses a home visit, offers to deliver the kitten, or seems uninterested in your suitability as an owner. Ethical breeders will be just as keen to ensure their kittens go to the right home.
DO: Consider Adopting from a Rescue
One of the best things you can do as a first-time cat owner is to adopt from a reputable animal rescue or shelter. Rescue centres have cats of all ages and personalities, and the staff can help match you with one that suits your lifestyle. Adult cats, in particular, are often overlooked but make wonderful companions – many are already litter-trained, calmer than kittens, and grateful for a second chance.
When adopting, you’ll usually receive a cat that is:
- Health checked
- Vaccinated
- Neutered/spayed
- Microchipped
You’ll also have the peace of mind that you’re giving a cat a much-needed home, rather than supporting unethical breeding practices. Below are a list of adoption and rehoming companies in Cheshire East:
- Eastbourne Adoption Centre (Cats Protection) – One of the best in the area for rehoming cats.
- East Sussex WRAS – Occasionally helps with rehoming or advising on local rescues.
- Highcroft Vets (Hailsham) and St Anne’s Veterinary Group (Eastbourne) – Trusted local vets.
DON’T: Forget About Housing Considerations
Your home environment plays a huge role in your cat’s wellbeing, so it’s important to prepare it properly. Whether you rent or own your home, there are a few key things to consider:
If You Rent:
- Check your tenancy agreement allows pets.
- Get written permission from your landlord if needed.
- Be mindful of furniture – scratching posts are a must!
If You Own:
- Decide whether your cat will be indoor-only or allowed outside.
- If outdoors, is your area safe (low traffic, no known predators)?
- Consider a “catio” or secure garden for safe outside access.
Indoor cats need plenty of stimulation, enrichment and vertical space – think shelves, window perches, and lots of playtime. Outdoor cats need a secure entry and exit point like a cat flap and should be microchipped for safety.
DO: Budget for Ongoing Costs
Cats are relatively low maintenance compared to some pets, but they still come with regular expenses. Make sure you’re financially prepared for:
- Food (wet and dry)
- Litter and litter trays
- Routine veterinary care (vaccines, flea/worm treatment)
- Pet insurance (strongly recommended)
- Toys, scratching posts, bedding and carriers
Unexpected vet bills can be costly, so insurance or a savings buffer is essential, especially for common issues like dental problems or injuries.
DON’T: Neglect Their Emotional Needs
While cats are known for being independent, they still need love, stimulation and companionship. Many behaviour problems (like spraying or scratching furniture) stem from boredom, stress, or lack of attention.
To keep your cat happy and healthy:
- Set aside time each day for play and bonding.
- Offer scratching posts and puzzle feeders.
- Ensure they have safe hiding places to retreat to.
- Respect their body language and boundaries.
DO: Get Them Registered with a Vet
Once your cat comes home, register them with a local vet as soon as possible. Schedule a check-up if one hasn’t already been done, and discuss a vaccination and flea/worm treatment schedule. If your cat isn’t already neutered or spayed, your vet will advise on when to book this in.
It’s also wise to get your cat microchipped (a legal requirement in the UK from 2024), so they can be easily identified if lost.
DON’T: Skip the Settling-In Period
Bringing a cat into a new environment is a big change for them. Whether you’ve adopted a confident young cat or a nervous rescue, be patient in those early days.
Tips for a smooth transition:
- Set up a quiet room with everything they need: litter tray, food, water, and a cosy bed.
- Let them explore at their own pace.
- Give them time to come to you – don’t overwhelm them with too much attention at first.
- Keep routines consistent to help them settle in.
Getting your first cat can be one of the most rewarding experiences, but it’s important to go into it prepared. Take your time to research, ask questions, and set up your home properly. Your new companion will be relying on you to give them a safe, loving, and stable home. Start the journey well, and you’ll be rewarded with years of purring, headbutts, and companionship.
And of course, if you need support with daily care, home visits or pet sitting while you’re away, our dedicated Eastbourne & Hailsham team is on hand to keep your cat happy and well looked after. Our services include feeding according to their dietary requirements alongside any medication they need, litter tray maintenance, brushing and cleaning, and of course playtime.