New Kitten Essentials: What to Buy in Australia

A snap-on hood and swinging door help keep litter in the pan; the polypropylene wipes clean and it comes with one replaceable carbon filter.

Fit:

About 52 × 40 × 38 cm outside with an 18 × 19 cm door opening; suits kittens big enough to step through the door, and adult cats.

Safety:

Some cats dislike hooded boxes, so start with the hood or door off if needed; replacement filters are sold separately.

Forms tight clumps for easy scooping with a mild lavender scent; an Australian-owned brand, also sold in 15 kg.

Fit:

For households that scoop daily and want fewer full litter changes.

Safety:

Watch that kittens don't eat litter; if your cat avoids the box after switching to a scented litter, go back to unscented.

Gives cats a legitimate place to scratch, with a hanging pom-pom and plush fleece on the base and top. An Australian pet brand.

Fit:

Good for a new kitten, so scratching on the post becomes a habit from day one instead of the sofa.

Safety:

Place it on a stable floor, because a wobbly post puts cats off; remove the pom-pom if its cord frays.

Front and top doors make it easier to lower a reluctant cat in from above; ventilated on the sides, top and back, with one-handed spring latches.

Fit:

About 58 × 38 × 33 cm; listed for medium dogs of about 5.4–9 kg, and roomy for most cats on vet trips or moves.

Safety:

Measure your pet's length and standing height first, and secure the carrier in the car so it can't slide.

Thin, sturdy stainless-steel bristles with safety tips lift loose hair and spread natural oils.

Fit:

For everyday brushing of short- to medium-coated cats, and for getting kittens used to handling.

Safety:

Keep sessions short and gentle; don't pull through mats, and stop if your cat gets annoyed.

A heavy ceramic bowl that's hard to tip over and dishwasher-safe.

Fit:

The 0.25 L size suits a single cat's meal of wet or dry food.

Safety:

Replace it if it chips or cracks, so it can't nick your cat's mouth.