How To Welcome A New Cat – 5 Important Things to Consider
It’s a major decision to welcome a new four-legged family member into your life. There are so many things to consider before taking the big leap.
In this collaborative guest post by Jessica Brody, we’ll discuss how to welcome a new cat into your home in a way that causes the least amount of stress for you both.
Want to welcome a new cat into your home? Here are 5 things to consider before you do! #cats #newcatparent Click To Tweet
How to Welcome a New Cat
You’ve decided to adopt a furry, purring feline. Congratulations! A new cat can bring plenty of fun and happiness into your life. But there are also some things to consider when you adopt a cat.
For those of you who already have a dog in the home, you might find these tips helpful for safely bringing cats and dogs together.
Read on to learn about how to best welcome your new fur baby, courtesy of the experts at Cat Care Solutions.
Adopt the Right Cat
First, you must adopt the right cat for your temperament and situation. For one thing, you must decide whether to adopt a kitten or an adult cat.
Kittens are adorable, but they also need lots of care, and they’re full of mischief. An adult cat might be best if you live in an apartment or are quite busy.
Also, determine whether you want to purchase a purebred cat from a breeder or adopt an animal in need from a local shelter. Remember that purebred cats are expensive and can have quirks in temperament.
There are, however, plenty of shelter cats who need good homes, so go visit with some, and you’ll probably find just the right furry companion for you.
Buy the Right Supplies
As you prepare to welcome your new cat, you’ll need to buy the right supplies. A litter box is at the top of the list. Be sure it’s the right size for your cat, and consider a covered box to provide more privacy.
You can find our current favorite litter box on Chewy and Amazon.
You’ll also need food and water dishes, a scratching post, a cat bed, some toys, a selection of treats, and a litter scoop. Pay close attention to your cat’s diet as well.
Related Reading:
Many cat owners combine dry and wet food, but the breeder or shelter might have suggestions, so follow them if possible.
Be Prepared for the First Day
When you bring your new cat home on the first day, be prepared for a bit of a struggle. Cats tend to hide in new surroundings, so expect that. Isolate your pet in one room at first, and only gradually allow further exploration as your cat becomes comfortable.
Keep rambunctious children away, and try to avoid startling your cat. This gives the animal time to get used to you and your home.
You might also consider leaving something that smells like you in their space, such as a t-shirt you’ve worn. As your new cat gets more familiar with your smell, they’ll gradually become more comfortable with you.
Most of the tips in my post, “How To Keep Your Cats Calm During Home Improvements,” might also help when adjusting your new fur-child to their forever home.
Control Your Stress
Cats tend to feel and respond to human stress, so control your stress levels as you and your cat form a bond. Your pet will pick up on your frustrations about work or family concerns, so make an effort to remain calm when you’re with your cat, especially in your first weeks together.
You don’t want any litter box issues or aggressive behavior. Be sure to spend plenty of time with your cat, too. Take a couple of extra hours off of work if you can, or have a friend stop by to check on your new
pet.
Being exposed to multiple (safe) people when your cat is young increases the likelihood that they will be okay with visitors in your home as they grow.
Some cats are just more shy and will never want to ‘hang out’ around new people, but that’s okay! Don’t force it. Allow your cat’s personality to tell you when they do and don’t feel safe.
Get Some Help
Finally, know where to turn for help and reassurance as you and your cat adjust. Research local reviews and get started with a vet as soon as possible.
Also, you can find lots of feline products (including treats and toys) at Pet Digest, so click here for more.
Love Your Cat
Most of all, as you welcome your new cat, love your fur baby. Your pet will feel that and adjust much more quickly. Visit the Cat Care Solutions Blog for more tips and info from the experts.
🐾 About Today’s Author 🐾
Jessica Brody created Our Best Friends so others could find a place to share stories and photos of their beloved animal companions.
She has been sharing some great content with us here at Cat Care Solutions. If you haven’t already, take a look at her other work:
5 Tips To Help You Start a Cat Care Business Now
Moving House With A Cat: 5 Important Safety Tips To Remember During a Move
Match Made In Heaven? 5 Things Every New Pet Parent Should Expect
Conclusion
Becoming a new cat parent is a blessing! There will be many fun days ahead, and some challenging ones too!
Are you a new cat parent or considering becoming one? Tell me your biggest joys and challenges in the comments below!
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Love & Healing Purrs,
Excellent tips on getting a new kitty. It’s just as important for them as it is for you.
Have a fabulous day and week, Holly. ♥
Thank you, Sandee! ❤️ I agree, it is equally important for both to have a happy first impression. Sending love to you and yours. Have a blessed week ahead!