Welcome Lynn,


I see all of the great suggestions here. May I add that the scratching post be very tall. At least the length of a fully stretched out kitty! -and that can be long!
If you hear of someone saying that their cat won't use the post, it's probably because it's too short.


I would also add that you select your cat by temperment, not just by cuteness.
Especailly in an apartment, some of the more active cats won't do as well as a laid back breed. It would be like having a border collie in a apt. Chaos.

As always I am in favor of rescue from a shelter.

Please keep us informed of you choice and post pictures of your new furpal.