First Time Cat Owner; What Do I Need To Get For One Three Year Old Cat?

Hi Everyone,

This is my second post and there isn't a "new cat" section on cat site so I thought this forum section would be best. (sorry if it's not) Anyway I'm super excited because soon, very soon. My family is going to adopt a cat from our local humane shelter (we've started the process where we're interviewing and stuff) and I'm in charge of buying the stuff for the cat. I know the necessities (food, bed, litter/litterbox...). 

But what kind of toys and scratching post should I get? Also my friend said I'd have to cut the cats nails, but I don't want t hurt her. If she has a scratching post do I still have to cut her nails?

If anyone could give me advice on what to get that would be great! Also what are the best books on cat care?

Sorry if its all over the place I'm just really excited!

Anne started a list and people have been tossing in their input too:

http://www.thecatsite.com/t/290701/what-would-you-say-are-the-necessary-items-for-having-a-cat

Thank you so much everything is so helpful, I'll read it after school!

Even though you'll provide scratching surfaces, you'll still probably want to trim your cat's claws. Even very gentle cats will occasionally sink their claws into you without intending to hurt you, such as when they "knead" while sitting on your lap or perch on your shoulder. Make sure to trim just the curved part of the claw at the end and stay away from the quick. Many cats need a while to learn to cooperate for this process, even though it should not hurt. I'm sure there is a thread somewhere that describes how you first just massage the paws and offer treats. Then progress to trimming just one claw at a time, etc.

Congratulations for deciding to get a shelter cat! I foster for a local humane society and have two former shelter cats of my own, and am amazed at what great companion animals they are.

Trimming cat nails is quite easy, vs. dog nail trims.  You can use a regular fingernail trimmer, this sort: https://www.google.com/search?q=fin...sBJHksATevIL4Ag&ved=0CF0QsAQ&biw=1138&bih=528  You may already have some in the house.

Or you can get a cat nail clipper like this:  https://www.petedge.com/zpetedgemai...earchString=cat+nail+clipper&wec-locale=en_US

You do not want to cut them short, you just want to blunt the tips.  If you make them short, you run the risk of changing the growth pattern and the result could be a nail which ends up growing in to the pad.  Then you go to the vet.  After you have done that once or twice, you watch how the vet fixes the issue and you realize the proper angle to trim at for future.  (been there, done that). 

Cats are very protective of their feet, it is their only contact with the world.  When you sit with the cat and are petting, get the cat used to you touching, holding and rubbing the paws and pads.  This will make trimming easier.  Also, have a special treat that you give only when you trim.  Canned salmon works well!

I find it easiest to sit in the recliner and wedge the cat in between me and the arm.  Now I can easily get the paw, and the cat can't back out on my.  I seldom trim back nails, mostly it is front nails which need to be done.

You listed food.  You will need bowls -- for that food and for water.  Stainless steel is best.  Plastic is worst.

Having also been involved in rescue, I too am thrilled you and your family will be adopting from a shelter!