The Essential Supplies Checklist

Pet stores can be overwhelming. There are entire aisles dedicated to products you may never need. Here is a practical guide to what you genuinely need before your pet comes home, and what can wait until you know your pet’s preferences.

For Dogs

• Collar with ID tag (your phone number, council registration number)
• Lead — a standard 1.8m lead is best for training; avoid retractable leads initially
• Food and water bowls — stainless steel or ceramic (plastic can harbour bacteria)
• Age-appropriate food — ask the shelter or breeder what they have been feeding
• Bed or crate — if crate training, ensure it is large enough for them to stand and turn
• Poo bags — you will go through more than you expect
• A few basic toys — a chew toy, a tug toy, and a puzzle feeder

For Cats

• Litter tray — one per cat plus one extra is the golden rule
• Cat litter — start with unscented clumping litter
• Food and water bowls — keep them separate from the litter tray
• Scratching post — at least one, tall enough for a full stretch
• Carrier — you will need this for vet visits
• A hiding spot — even a cardboard box works

For Rabbits

• Enclosure — minimum 3x their body length, 2x their body width
• Hay — unlimited timothy hay is the foundation of their diet
• Water bottle or heavy ceramic bowl
• Litter tray — rabbits can be litter trained
• Hiding house — rabbits need to feel they can escape from view

These items are useful but not essential on day one:

• Grooming tools — wait until you know your pet’s coat type
• Training treats — useful, but any small soft treat works initially
• Harnesses — especially for dogs; sizing is easier in person once you have them
• Fancy beds and furniture — your pet may prefer a $10 blanket over a $200 bed
• Clothing and costumes — adorable, but not a priority
• Automated feeders — get to know their eating habits first

The most common mistake new pet owners make is buying too much too soon, then discovering their pet ignores half of it.