subject: Fundamental Pet Supplies [print this page] When you get a new pet, you might be surprised by how many things you end up buying for them. Or if you have friends that have pets, their homes may be filled with things for their pets and you might think you need all those things in order to keep your pet happy. The amount of pet supplies you need for your animal depends on what kind of animal you have and what kinds of things you do with it.
Fish are some of the simplest pets in terms of maintenance and supplies. There are different kinds of fish and they require different kinds of care. A betta fish requires nothing beyond a bowl of water. Other fish might require a filter or an aerator. Some fish also need a heater in order to keep the water in the tank within a specific temperature. There are some that require places to hide and you will need to get some plants or other hiding places.
Cats require food and water bowls, as well as a scratching post or toy that allows them to scratch, unless they are de-clawed. They need to be able to scratch to wear down their claws, and it is imperative that you give them a way to do so.
They also need a litter box, although cats that are both indoor and outdoor cats frequently use the bathroom outside. Anything else you get for the cat is a matter of personal preference. Some cats enjoy climbing toys or beds, but most are happy using your furniture for that purpose.
If you own a dog, you'll need more supplies than you will for other animals. Dogs need a collar and a leash for walks, and they will also need food and water bowls so they can eat and drink. They will also need a dog bed of some sort because dogs, unlike cats, do not generally use the furniture for their beds. Some dogs might require additional warmth during winter walks and need a sweater or a jacket. In extremely hot climates, you might need portable water bowls to help them stay hydrated.
In addition, dogs will also need to have some grooming as part of their routine. Cats groom themselves, but you will have to bathe your dog yourself. You'll have to find a shampoo that is formulated for dogs. There are several distinct varieties of shampoo available.
Some shampoos are designed to help with flea issues. Others are designed to help dogs that have sensitive skin. Dogs with white or light colored fur do best with shampoos that are designed to prevent dinginess in their fur.
There are several different kinds of pet supplies and the ones you purchase depend on the kind of pet you have and what kinds of activities you do with your pet. By sticking to the basics you can reduce your out of pocket spending on pet supplies.
