Bringing home a new pet is always an exciting time. There’s so much to do to get ready for your new furry friend. But before you run out and buy everything on the pet store shelves, take a step back and consider what your pet really needs. This list of must-have home pet products will help you get started on the right paw.

22 Must-Have Home Pet Products

1. Crate or Carrier

One of the first things you’ll need to get for your new pet is a crate or carrier. This will be their safe space, where they can go to relax or sleep. It’s important to choose a crate or carrier that’s the right size for your pet. You don’t want it to be too small, where they feel cramped, or too big, where they feel lost. In addition, it’s good to get a pet carrier with a removable door for potty training. Dogs, in particular, will need a lot of crate training when they’re first learning to live in a human home. They don’t like to soil their sleeping area, so a crate is a perfect way to help them learn where they should and shouldn’t go to the bathroom.

2. Food and Water Bowls

Your pet will need its own food and water bowls. Stainless steel is the best material for these, as it’s easy to clean and won’t harbor bacteria. It’s important to get bowls that are the right size for your pet. Smaller pets will need shallower bowls, so they can reach their food, while larger pets will need deeper bowls. You should also get a separate bowl for water, as your pet will need to have access to fresh water at all times. While you’re at it, consider buying a filtered water dispenser, so your pet always has clean water to drink.

The ‘lifespan’ of a central air conditioner is about 15 to 20 years, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, you might have a faulty unit and not even know it. If that’s the case and your home is hot, your pet might be at risk for heatstroke. Fortunately, putting water bowls in several different rooms will help keep your pet cool and hydrated.

3. Litter Box

If you’re bringing home a cat, you’ll need to get a litter box. It’s important to choose the right size litter box for your cat. They should be able to use the restroom without feeling cramped. In addition, you’ll need to get litter that’s right for your cat. Some cats prefer clay-based litter, while others prefer clumping or natural litter. You’ll need to experiment to see what your cat likes best. If you’re planning on getting a kitten, you should also get a smaller litter box that they can use until they’re full-grown.

4. Toys

Pets need toys to keep them entertained and mentally stimulated. Dogs, in particular, need a lot of mental stimulation, as they can get bored easily. A good toy for a dog is one that they can chew on, as this will help keep their teeth clean and their gums healthy. It’s also a good idea to get your pet a toy that they can play with by themselves, as this will give them something to do when you’re not around. Cats, on the other hand, need toys that they can swat at and chase. This will help them stay active and avoid getting bored.

5. Pet Bed

Your pet will need a comfortable bed to sleep in. Dogs, in particular, need a bed that’s the right size for them. Otherwise, they might end up sleeping on the floor, which isn’t good for their joints. In addition, you’ll want to get a bed that’s easy to clean. Some pet beds even have removable covers that you can machine wash. If your pet is new to the house, you might also want to get them a bed with raised sides. This will help them feel safe and secure in their new environment.

6. Grooming Supplies

Depending on the type of pet you have, you might need to get some grooming supplies. Dogs, for example, need to be brushed regularly to prevent their fur from getting matted. You’ll also want to get a shampoo that’s specifically formulated for dogs. Cats, on the other hand, groom themselves. However, you might still need to trim their nails occasionally. In addition, you’ll want to get a litter scoop to help keep their litter box clean.

7. Toy Box

Every pet needs a toy box. This is where they can keep all of their toys in one place. It’s also a good idea to get a toy box that’s easy to clean. That way, you can quickly and easily clean up any messes that your pet makes. For cats, it’s best to put away their toys, as having them out all the time might make them get bored of their toys faster.

8. Stain and Odor Remover

Pets can make messes, and sometimes those messes can be hard to clean up. That’s why you need a good stain and odor remover on hand. A good spray will help you quickly and easily clean up any accidents that your pet has. You should also keep this cleaner in your toy box, in case your pet makes a mess while they’re playing. New puppies tend to use the restroom after playtime, so having this cleaner on hand will be a lifesaver. Considering that 70% of people move their furniture to cover a stain, rather than clean it, you’ll be glad you have this cleaner on hand.

9. Collar and Leash

If you have a dog, you’ll need a collar and leash. This is so you can take them for walks and keep them safe when they’re outside. You’ll want to get a collar that’s comfortable for your dog to wear and that’s the right size. You should also get a leash that’s comfortable for you to hold on to. For cats, you might want to get a harness and leash. This will allow you to take them for walks and keep them safe when they’re outside.

10. Pee Pads

If you have a puppy, you’ll need to get some pee pads. Puppies tend to have accidents, and these pads will help absorb the mess. Pee pads are also great for dogs who live in apartments, as they can use the pads instead of going outside. You can also use pee pads to train your dog to go to the bathroom in a certain area. You can also purchase artificial turf, which is a great alternative to pee pads. Placing these on a patio or balcony will give your pet a place to go to the bathroom without making a mess.

11. Treats

All pets love treats, and you’ll want to have some on hand to reward your pet for good behavior. You can find treats that are specifically formulated for dogs, cats, or birds. You should also get a treat jar to keep the treats in. This will help you keep the treats fresh and will also help you avoid making a mess. Many treat jars come in airtight containers, which is ideal for keeping the treats fresh.

12. Dog or Cat Food

Of course, you’ll need to get food for your pet. For dogs, you can choose from dry food, wet food, or a combination of both. Getting food that your pet will like might be a bit tricky. However, you can always ask your veterinarian for recommendations. For cats, you’ll need to get wet food and dry food. It’s important to get cat food that’s high in protein, as this is what cats need to stay healthy. If you’re adopting a pet, it’s also good to ask what their current food is. You’ll always want to wean them off slowly to avoid stomach upset.

13. Octagon or Play Pen

An octagon or playpen is a great way to give your pet its own space. This is especially important for dogs, as they need a place to run around. It’s also a good idea to get a playpen that’s easy to clean. In addition, many playpens come apart and can double as a pet gate. This is a great way to keep your pet contained in one area without making them feel trapped.

14. Locks for Cabinets

The average kitchen has 30 cabinets, and each one of them can be a potential hazard for your pet. That’s why you need to get some locks for your cabinets. This will help keep your pet safe and will also help you avoid any accidents. Locks are especially important if you have poisonous cleaners or food in your cabinets.

15. Pet-safe Indoor Plants

If you’re looking for a way to spruce up your home, consider getting some pet-safe indoor plants. These plants will not only look great, but they’ll also help purify the air. Many indoor plants are toxic to pets, so it’s important to do your research before buying any plants. In addition, some plants need more care than others. If you’re not sure if a plant is right for you, ask your veterinarian or a pet-safe plants expert.

16. Pumpkin Puree For Dogs

Pumpkin puree is a great way to keep your dog’s digestive system healthy. Pumpkin is full of fiber, which will help your dog stay regular. It’s also a good source of vitamins A and C. You can find pumpkin puree at most grocery stores. Just make sure to get the puree and not the pie filling.

17. Scratching Post For Cats

A scratching post is a must-have for any cat owner. Scratching is a natural instinct for cats, and it helps them keep their claws healthy. A good scratching post will be tall enough for your cat to stretch out and will be made of sturdy materials. You can find scratching posts at most pet stores.

18. Bird Cage

If you’re getting a bird, you’ll need a birdcage. The size of the cage will depend on the type of bird you’re getting. It’s important to get a cage that’s big enough for your bird to move around and stretch its wings. In addition, the cage should have a perch for your bird to sit on. You can find bird cages at most pet stores.

19. Tank For Reptiles

Most reptiles require heat, water, and UVB light, so you’ll need to get a tank that provides all of these things. The size of the tank will depend on the type of reptile you’re getting. You should also get a basking spot for your reptile. This is a spot where they can go to warm up. You can find tanks and basking spots at most pet stores.

20. Hamster Wheel

A hamster wheel is a great way to keep your hamster active. Hamsters are very active creatures, and they need a way to burn off all that energy. A good hamster wheel will be made of sturdy materials and will be the right size for your hamster. You can find hamster wheels designed for any size hamster and made of plastic that is safe for your hamster to chew on.

21. Pet Hair Vacuum

If you have a pet, you know that pet hair can be a problem. It can get everywhere, and it’s hard to keep up with. That’s why you need a good pet hair vacuum. A pet hair vacuum will help you keep your home clean and will also help you keep up with the shedding. There are many different types of pet hair vacuums on the market, so find one that’s right for you and your pet.

22. Pet Shampoo

You should never use human shampoo on your pet. Human shampoo is too harsh for pets and can cause skin irritation. Instead, get a good pet shampoo that’s designed for your pet’s coat type. There are many different types of pet shampoo on the market, so find one that’s right for your pet. You can also ask your veterinarian if your pet has allergies to any ingredients.

Go shopping for some must-have home pet products today! Your pet will thank you and will have an easier time transitioning into its forever home.