1.  Litter box (~10$)

o       a 7.2 U.S. gallon (max.dimensions 23"X17"X6") Rubbermaid storage container works great and you can get it at Canadian Tire, Zellers, and Wal-Mart for about 9$

o       please buy it from a store that doesn't sell pets.

2.  Litter (~10$/40lbs~2mths)

o       the self-clumping litter is the best buy since it doesn't need to be changed as often as the absorbing kind.

3.  Litter Scooper (1 to 5$)

o       this is basically a little perforated shovel you use to clean the litter a few times a day. Just shake it back and forth once you've dug in and you'll find the nuggets your kitty left you. Use cheap sandwich bags with twist ties to put the nuggets into and dispose of them in the garbage (they'll clog your toilet).

4.  Food (~10 to18$/mth)

o       find out first what we are feeding the cat(s) and put some of this to start and you can gradually over 2 weeks or so blend in the food of your choice;

o       Remember: All cat foods are not created equal. What you scrimp on cat food may cost you a pretty penny in the vet's office, or even worse, the life of your newfound friend! (See our recommendations on cat food for a few tips).

5.  Cat Carrier (~9 to 30$)

o       Don't wait till you REALLY have to go to the vet to buy this one. Purchase a sturdy one (hard plastic) with a steel door with a strong locking mechanism. You can buy these at vets, pet food stores, and just about any major discount store (e.g. Wal-Mart).

o       If you plan on using the carriers solely for emergencies and visits to the vet a cheaper waxed cardboard version is available at most vet stores.

6.  Scratching Post (~3 to 25$)

o       Most cats scratch to mark their territory and they will happily go only the scratching post provided.

o       Buy or make one that is about 3 ft tall and has a wide enough base so it will not teeter when it is used. Get some catnip or catnip spray to put on it. Your cat will love it!

7.  Cat Brush (~1 to 15$)

o       Even the Dollar Store has these

8.  Cat Nail Clipper (2 to 5$)

Buy one that is sharp and durable so that it won't dull in a months time so that it won't fray (painful for the cat) your cats claws from the dull edge.(See our tips for claw clipping!)