What To Do Next Checklist (After Week 1) — Cat

Ryan Lapierre
2026-04-17T13:51:07-04:00

You made it through the first week—nice work. This week-2 checklist helps you turn the chaos into a calm routine with your new cat, including a simple vet plan, enrichment to prevent boredom, an easy cleaning rhythm, and what to track so small issues don’t become big ones.

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After Week-1 Checklist: Cat/kitten

You made it through week one. Now the goal is a calm routine, a confident cat, and fewer daily headaches.

1) Lock in a simple routine

Keep meals consistent (same times daily when possible)

Do 1–2 short play sessions per day (even 5–10 minutes helps)

Keep the litter box routine steady (scoop daily if possible)

2) Confirm the vet plan

If you haven’t already: schedule the first wellness visit

Bring any records you have (vaccines, microchip, prior meds)

Ask about diet, healthy weight, parasite prevention, and dental basics

3) Upgrade the setup (only where it helps)

Add one improvement at a time (cats like predictability)

Consider upgrades that reduce effort:

Easier water routine (fresh bowl schedule or fountain)

Better litter setup (placement, mat, odor control)

More vertical space (tower/tree) to reduce stress

4) Reinforce the “easy wins”

Reward calm behavior (quiet sitting, gentle play)

If scratching is an issue: place a scratcher where it happens and reward use

If you’re using a carrier: leave it out as a “safe spot” so it’s not scary later

5) Build confidence (gentle socialization)

Slowly introduce new rooms, sounds, and visitors

Keep hiding spots available (confidence grows when they feel safe)

6) Prevent boredom (and unwanted behavior)

Rotate toys instead of leaving everything out

Add simple enrichment:

Wand play

Treat puzzles

Window perch time (safe/secure)

7) Set a cleaning + maintenance rhythm

Daily: litter scoop, quick wipe of food/water area

Weekly: wash bowls, wash bedding, toy refresh

If using a fountain: set a reminder for filter/cleaning

8) If you have other pets: keep introductions slow

Separate resources (food/water/litter/rest areas)

Short, calm interactions only—end on a good note

9) Track what matters

Appetite + water intake

Litter box habits

Energy level and sleep

Scratching patterns (location + time of day)

10) Know when to call the vet

If something feels off and it’s not improving, trust your gut and call.

Pro tip

After week one, consistency beats perfection. Small upgrades + steady routines = a calmer cat and an easier day-to-day.