Essential Supply Checklist for Welcoming a New Pet

Lakeside Animal Hospital
A puppy and a cat are sitting next to each other on a yellow and blue background.

Did you bring home a new furry family member this holiday season? Whether your new furbaby is young or old, they will need a few things to help get them acclimated to their fur-ever home. Help make the transition easier for them and you with this essential supply checklist:

For Both Puppies and Kittens:

  • Food and Water Bowls:
    • Ensure appropriately sized bowls
    • Opt for stainless steel or ceramic
  • Nutritious Pet Food:
  • Collar, ID Tag and Microchipping:
  • Include contact information on the ID tag
  • Get your pet microchipped and make sure the information stays current
  • Comfortable Bed:
    • Provide a cozy, washable bed
  • Crate or Carrier:
    • Useful for training, travel or creating a safe space
  • Toys:
    • Offer a variety for mental stimulation and play
    • Always supervise your pet during play time
  • Grooming Supplies:
    • Brush (suitable for coat type), nail clippers and pet-friendly shampoo
  • Pet-Friendly Detergent and Cleaning Supplies:
    • Be prepared for accidents with stain removers and pet-safe cleaning products
  • Pet Insurance:
    • Obtain pet insurance for unexpected veterinary expenses
  • Veterinarian:
    • Choose a veterinarian and make sure your pet is up to date on all vaccines

For Puppies:

  • Puppy Pads:
    • Useful during house training
  • Chew Toys:
    • Helps with teething and to redirect chewing behavior
  • Puppy Food:
    • Specifically formulated for their nutritional needs
  • Puppy Training:
    • Consider enrolling your puppy in training to learn basic commands and good discipline
  • Training Treats:
    • Utilize small, soft treats for positive reinforcement
  • Leashes:
    • Essential for walks and outdoor activities

For Kittens:

  • Kitten Food:
    • Choose high-quality food supporting their growth
  • Interactive Toys:
    • Encourages play and mental stimulation
  • Cat Tree or Climbing Structures:
    • Provide vertical space for climbing and exploration
  • Litter Box and Litter:
    • Choose a low-sided litter box
    • Opt for scoopable litter for easy cleaning
  • Scratching Post:
    • Fulfill natural scratching instincts

Remember, each pet is unique, so prioritize items based on your new furry friend’s specific needs and preferences. Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial for ensuring your pet’s health and well-being. Lakeside Animal Hospital provides comprehensive packages designed to prepare both you and your new companion for the early stages of life.

Senior cat eating a kidney diet at home before a vet consultation in Plantation
by Dr. Jennifer Frione, DVM • 23 October 2026
A cat kidney diet vet consultation in Plantation reviews bloodwork, picks the right renal diet, and plans the switch. Book with Lakeside today.
Senior cat gently held by veterinarian hands during a kidney disease exam in Plantation
by Dr. Jennifer Frione, DVM • 21 October 2026
Learn how kidney disease in senior cats is diagnosed and managed at Lakeside Animal Hospital in Plantation, FL. Book a senior exam today.
Gloved hands brushing a calm dog’s coat during sedated dog grooming in Plantation, FL
by Dr. Jennifer Frione, DVM • 16 October 2026
Sedated dog grooming in Plantation, FL should include a vet exam and monitoring. Learn what to ask before you book with Lakeside.
 Gloved hands gently brushing a calm dog’s coat during medical dog grooming in Plantation
by Dr. Jennifer Frione, DVM • 13 October 2026
When regular grooming isn’t enough, medical dematting can help. Learn how Lakeside Animal Hospital in Plantation, FL handles severe matting.
Veterinary technician labeling a blood sample for pre-anesthetic bloodwork before senior dog surgery
by Dr. Jennifer Frione, DVM • 9 October 2026
Which pre-anesthetic bloodwork values matter before senior dog surgery? See what our Plantation vets check and why it keeps your dog safe.
Gloved hands preparing instruments for soft tissue surgery at a Plantation, FL vet
by Dr. Jennifer Frione, DVM • 7 October 2026
Soft tissue surgery vet in Plantation, FL: what to expect before, during, and after your pet's procedure. Schedule a surgical consultation at Lakeside.
Veterinarian holding a cat dental X-ray, asking is non-anesthetic dental cleaning safe.
by Dr. Jennifer Frione, DVM • 2 October 2026
Is non-anesthetic dental cleaning safe for pets? A Plantation vet explains what it misses below the gumline and what a full exam includes.
Veterinarian gently examining a calm cat's teeth for cat tooth extraction cost in Plantation FL
by Dr. Jennifer Frione, DVM • 30 September 2026
What does cat tooth extraction cost in Plantation, FL? Learn what affects pricing, what's included, and schedule a dental exam with Lakeside.
Senior dog resting calmly during cognitive dysfunction evaluation at home
by Dr. Jennifer Frione, DVM • 25 September 2026
How do vets confirm canine cognitive dysfunction? Learn what the diagnostic process actually involves for senior dogs.
Senior dog resting calmly, cognitive dysfunction care in Plantation FL
by Dr. Jennifer Frione, DVM • 23 September 2026
Signs and treatment options for canine cognitive dysfunction in senior dogs. Learn how Lakeside Animal Hospital in Plantation, FL can help.