How To Make Your New Cat Feel At Home
June marks the height of kitten season, and it’s also Adopt-a-Cat Month. So, if you plan to bring home a new kitten or cat in celebration, we encourage you to do a little research and preparation ahead of time to ensure your new feline friend feels right at home in your home.
5 Tips to Help Your Cat Adjust to a New Home
1. Go Slowly
Introduce your new cat to one room at a time. It might be best to keep the new pet confined to a single room for at least the first day in your house.
Be sure to wait until they’re completely comfortable before attempting to introduce them to any other resident pets. First impressions are important when it comes to animal interactions.
Be sure to wait until they’re completely comfortable before attempting to introduce them to any other resident pets. First impressions are important when it comes to animal interactions.
2. Meet Their Needs
When you bring your cat home, show them where the litter box is located and offer a bowl of water. Don’t put out any food until you’ve been home for about an hour and your cat has had a chance to inspect its new surroundings. Also, be sure to provide your kitty a safe and secure place to sleep.
3. Stay Indoors
Indoor-only cats live longer than their outdoor adventuring counterparts. However, even if you plan to let your cat venture outside, keep them indoors for several weeks so they can establish where their new home is.
4. Get ID Tags and a Microchip
In unfamiliar territory, new cats can easily become lost if they do manage to get outside. Make sure you have ID tags for your pet’s collar and get a microchip as soon as possible.
5. Be Patient
Depending on your new cat’s personality, he/she might need several weeks to adjust to his/her new surroundings. Be patient with your new pet and don’t try to force them to socialize too quickly.
Also, remember that behavioral problems can occur as a result of stress, so any issues that arise will likely clear up as soon as your cat starts to relax.
Establish Your Pet's Care With White Haven Veterinary Hospital
If you’ve decided to adopt a new kitten or cat for Adopt-a-Cat Month, we welcome you to establish your new pet’s veterinary care with our veterinarians at White Haven Veterinary Hospital. Our full-service animal hospital offers personalized health plans and exceptional wellness and preventative care designed to keep your new pet healthy for life.
To learn more about our veterinary practice or schedule an appointment, we welcome you to contact us today.
