Checklist to get your home ready before it arrives

What to have ready on the first day and the household dangers we tend to miss. A list to print out and tick off.

The basics

Its own corner: a bed or shelter in a quiet spot, away from draughts.
Food and water bowls, and the same food it was eating until now for the first few days.
A carrier, also for small dogs and cats: you will use it for the vet and for trips.
Dog: collar or harness with a tag, lead and bags.
Cat: litter tray and litter, scratching post and a toy to hunt.
Small mammals, birds, fish or reptiles: cage, aquarium or terrarium set up and running before they arrive.

Household dangers

Cables, cleaning products and medicines out of reach.
Windows and balconies: many cats fall. A safety net prevents it.
Toxic plants, such as lilies for cats.
Bins without lids, especially with bones or leftover food.
Thread, elastic bands and small pieces that could be swallowed.

And the paperwork

Find a vet before it arrives, check that the microchip is in your name in the register and note its important dates in «My pets». That way you will not miss the next vaccination.