how to welcome a new cat into your home
As many of our adoptables have spent their entire lives with the same human, adjusting to their second forever home can be overwhelming until they know they are safe and loved once again.
During the first few days, your new cat may hide, not eat as much, not be the best at using their litter box, not want to play, appear afraid or frightened and more. All of these behaviours are normal and to be expected.
Here are a few of our best tips to help your cat adjust to their second forever home.
Create a Safe Space
The best way to help a cat transition into their new home is to create a space just for them. Whether this is a separate room with a closed door, or simply a space in your home with a barrier, this space will help them adjust to their new home. Be sure to include their litter box, food, water, bed and toys in this space to show them it is their own. You can even include places to hide to help them feel secure.
Slow and Steady Wins the Race
For the first few days, it is best to take it slow and allow the cat to get settled into their safe space. Keeping a bit of a distance from the animal will allow them to adjust to their second forever home at their own pace. Make sure you wait a few days before introducing your new cat to other animals or young children.
You Can’t Rush Love
While you can’t rush love, you can help your new cat warm up to you by offering them treats and a few pets at the same time. Trust takes time, so it is best to wait a few weeks before trimming nails or grooming your cat. With a bit of time and patience, your cat will start to know they are safe and loved once again.
Knowledge Contributed by Dr. Kayla Hyland
Alumni Featured: Bingo
When a senior’s terminal cancer diagnosis began to take its toll, her family worked with My Grandfather’s Cat to find a second forever home for her beloved cat, Bingo.