The Definitive Guide: Welcoming a New Cat to Your Home
In celebration of Adopt a Shelter Cat Month (which we believe should be every month), our team is here to help you seamlessly introduce a new cat to your household. Cats are sensitive beings, and entering a new environment, especially if other animals have already staked their claim, can be stressful. Whether you’re bringing home one cat or several, follow these expert tips to ensure their smooth transition and make them feel right at home.
Step #1: Establish a safe space for your new cat
It takes time for a new cat to feel comfortable around you, and even longer to integrate into a household with other pets. Help your cat feel secure in their new environment by providing them with their own dedicated resources. Set up a spacious room with a litter box, food and water dishes, scratching post, and bedding exclusively for them. This way, they won’t have to compete for essential resources. Spend quality time playing, petting, and interacting with your new feline friend to help them acclimate to your presence, but also give them uninterrupted space to explore at their own pace.
Step #2: Maintain a consistent diet
Moving to a new environment can upset a cat’s delicate digestive system, so minimize additional stress by keeping them on the same diet they were accustomed to. If you plan to transition them to a new food, allow a few days for them to settle in with their current diet before gradually introducing the new food over the course of a week.
Step #3: Allow your new cat time to adjust
It may take your new cat a week or two to fully settle into their new home, so hold off on introducing them to family and friends until they feel comfortable with you and their surroundings. However, it is important to schedule a meet-and-greet with your regular veterinarian to ensure your new cat’s health and preventive care are up to date. Avoid additional stress by allowing your cat another week to relax before any further introductions.
Congratulations on the newest addition to your family! We are excited to meet your new pet, so please give us a call to schedule their wellness visit.