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Getting your first cat is a wonderful step, and in the US it is easy and affordable if you adopt from a shelter. You do not need a license, but you do need a plan: a vet, supplies, a safe home, and money for about 15-20 years of care. If you are under 18, you need your parents' permission, and renters need the landlord's OK.
Next up: Get permission and make a budget
No national license is required to own a cat in the US. Some cities or counties require a rabies vaccine and sometimes a cat license or registration. Renters usually need landlord approval and may pay a pet deposit. Adopters must usually be 18+ with ID, so a parent or guardian has to sign the adoption papers if you are younger.
Can I start right away? Today: ask your parents or landlord for permission, then open Petfinder.com and search for cats near your ZIP code.
Adopt from a local shelter, humane society, or rescue (try Petfinder or Adopt-a-Pet). Fees are usually $50-200 and include spay/neuter, shots, and a microchip. Avoid buying from pet stores or random online sellers because of scams and unhealthy animals.
Adult cats (2+ years) have a known personality and are often calmer than kittens. Kittens need lots of time and play. Ask staff about energy level and how the cat does with kids or other pets. Consider adopting two kittens together if you are away a lot.
Set up a quiet room with litter, food, water, and a hiding spot for the first days. Remove toxic plants (lilies are deadly for cats), cords, string, and small objects. Secure windows and balconies. Keep human foods like chocolate, onions, and grapes away.
Cats are meat-eaters, so choose food labeled 'complete and balanced' (AAFCO). Feed adults 2 times a day and kittens 3-4 times. Keep fresh water out. Scoop litter daily and change it fully every 1-2 weeks. Have one box per cat, plus one extra.
Visit a vet in the first week, then once a year. Cats need core vaccines, including rabies, plus flea prevention. Spay or neuter if not already done. See a vet quickly if your cat stops eating for a day, strains in the litter box, vomits repeatedly, or hides and acts very different.
Let your cat come to you and give it a few days to settle in. Play 10-15 minutes twice a day with a wand toy. Never punish scratching, instead give a scratching post. Do not declaw, which is painful and harmful. Keep cats indoors for safety, or use a harness for outdoor time.
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