However, determining your pet's needs may not be as straightforward as many people think, especially for first time owners.

Before committing and becoming a pet owner, make sure you know their requirements. Just like any important family member, you will want to be able to provide the correct care and support for your pet to ensure they settle in well and become a happy, contented and affectionate companion.

Cats and dogs make excellent companions if they are cared for correctly. However potential pet owners need to be aware that this can be costly and expensive and your new pet will require your time and interest for the rest of their lives.

We have come up with a list of essentials that you should be able to provide to guarantee your pretty new pet remains happy and contented.

Can you...

1. Provide a balanced diet and fresh water - to keep your little scruffs coat shining and their eyes twinkling.

2. Provide companionship - to be able to spend quality time with you, or other pets, for at the very least part of the day.

3. Provide regular worming and flea treatments - to keep your pet happy, comfortable and healthy.

4. Provide recommended vaccinations and injections - to protect your pet from a variety of serious illnesses.

5. Provide a safe place to play and exercise every day - to keep your little rascal entertained and amused and to ensure they are always tired by bedtime!

6. Immediately take your pet to the vets if ill or injured - to make sure your pet is never suffering.

It is also extremely important to consider pet insurance when you bring home your new pet as vet bills can really be crippling to you finances. Our family had to take our kitten to the vets after he suffered an allergic reaction and the blood test alone cost 400GBP. Thankfully our insurance paid the full amount less a 50GBP excess

Cats and dogs are naturally very clean animals and often pride themselves in keeping their coats squeaky clean and their eyes twinkling. However, they do have sharp claws, and if not provided with the correct care and equipment they may be more tempted to dig them into your new furniture!

For more information about your pet's welfare, get in touch with your local vets who will be more than happy to help.