Quick Tips for Cats to Adapt to a New Home Fast

Many of us have experienced the confusion and anxiety that comes with our first cat ownership. We worry about not being able to take care of them properly, or even to keep them alive.

As for the basic items you should have on hand, I've already covered that in a previous article. If you're interested, you can find that information here.

One of the most common scenarios is when your new cat arrives and it spends the first day hiding under the sofa or in the bed, hissing at you, and refusing to eat or drink. It seems to be crying nonstop!

It's important to understand that cats behave very differently from dogs, which is why they might not be as affectionate or compliant with you right away.

Many cats are extremely insecure when they first arrive in a new home (though there are some that are naturally sociable). They might even be worried that you're there to take over their territory!

Here are some of the reactions you might see when a cat comes to a new home:

Internally, the cat might be thinking, "There are always troublemakers trying to harm me!"

Cats may either be nervous or excited when they arrive in a new home. Shy cats often hide in corners, under furniture, and refuse to eat, drink, or go to the bathroom, while they continuously meow. If you reach out to them, they might hiss as a warning. More aggressive cats might even bite.

Braver cats tend to be more excited and curious when they arrive, showing friendliness towards humans.

(You must have been very kind in a past life to have such a cute and kindhearted cat!) These cats will eat and drink without any worries, so it's best to educate yourself on cat care and enjoy the peace.

So, how can you help your cat adjust to its new environment more quickly?

Preparation Before Arrival:

Firstly, ensure you have all the essential items ready before your cat arrives, such as cat food, litter, scratching posts, and a bed. It's also a good idea to have some treats to interact with your cat, including a toy that all cats love – a small, lightweight wand is perfect.

If you're adopting a cat, ask the previous owner for any familiar items, like toys or blankets, which will have the cat's scent on them. If you already have pets at home, it's important to take the new cat for a checkup before bringing it home to ensure there are no health issues.

After Arrival:

Cats that are nervous might be very sensitive to any movement, and you might notice that even a seemingly innocent action can startle them. During this time, try to keep your movements gentle and avoid startling the cat. If it's hiding in a corner, don't force it out to pet or hold it, as this can be counterproductive and might make it more afraid.

When a cat is extremely nervous, it might not eat or drink, even if you offer food and water. Don't force it to eat, and don't worry too much about its every move. Cats are naturally curious creatures, and in the absence of any perceived threats, they will gradually explore their new surroundings. It's possible that in the middle of the night, when you're asleep, it might sneak out and eat some food!

Generally, cats can adapt to their new home within 13 days. If your cat still doesn't eat or drink on the second day, but starts to explore the environment and sniff around, it's a sign that it's gradually adjusting. When it gets too hungry, it will start to eat. If you're worried about your cat being hungry, you can try offering a favorite canned food, which might entice it to eat. However, don't make this a regular practice; once the cat is settled, it's best to feed it regular cat food to avoid picky eating habits.

You can also try using a wand toy to interact with your cat from a distance. If it's scared, stop immediately. If it enjoys it, this is a great opportunity to bond with your cat.

Each cat adapts at its own pace; some may feel at home within a few hours, while others might remain nervous for several days.

You can also use small treats or pieces of meat to catch your cat's attention, making it feel that you're not a threat and that there are delicious things to eat. This can help it gradually accept you.

(Here's a photo of a cat playing with a wand toy, having a great time!) When interacting with your cat, always take safety precautions. Avoid using your hands to play, as cats might see your fingers as a target, especially when they're nervous, which can lead to scratches. This is not beneficial for either you or your cat, especially if your cat hasn't been vaccinated.

In case of an accidental scratch, wash the wound with sulfuric soap and disinfect it with hydrogen peroxide. If your cat is a stray and hasn't been vaccinated, it's best to take it to a vet for vaccinations and observe it for ten days.

Remember, patience is key when it comes to cat ownership. If you're frustrated because your cat is biting, scratching the sofa, or eating garbage bags, or if you have issues like ear mites, cat dandruff, or other minor problems, or if your family, landlord, or children are against it, please reconsider. It's not fair to the cat to give up on it just because of these issues.

Once you decide to keep a cat, please be responsible for it. Even if you're not fond of it or don't want it, find a more reliable owner for it.

Lastly, I hope all cat owners and their feline companions will live happily ever after!