Welcoming a New Cat Home: Tips for Existing Feline Frie
Embarking on the first week in a new home is a critical period for a kitten to adjust. Here are some key points to pay close attention to!
Before Welcoming the Kitten:
Ensure your home is thoroughly cleaned to provide a hygienic environment.
Confirm the kitten's preferred cat food brand with the previous owner.
Before bringing the kitten home, arrange multiple meetandgreets to foster familiarity between you both.
Don't overfeed the kitten before the trip home; it might become anxious and have an accident!
Key Points:
Seal or install screens on windows to prevent escape.
Remove fragile items, such as dishes, cups, vases, and other breakables from the home.
On the Day of Welcoming the Kitten:
Remain gentle and reassuring to the kitten during the journey, comforting it with words like, "Don't be afraid~"
Bring the kitten home in the morning so it can slowly acclimate to the new environment throughout the day.
Teach the kitten where to use the bathroom; after it has explored the area, gently place it in the litter box to familiarize it with the new toilet spot.
At night, the kitten may meow out of loneliness; just pet it to comfort it.
Key Points:
When releasing the kitten from its carrier, avoid hugging and petting it immediately upon arrival. The kitten is likely anxious and stressed. Instead, let it explore the home independently for 2030 minutes, either by exploring or hiding. Do not disturb it during this time to allow it to become accustomed to the new surroundings.
How to Comfortably Hold Your Kitten Upon Arrival:
A firm but gentle hold can help soothe the kitten and strengthen the bond between you, making it more comfortable for the kitten to interact with humans.
Introducing a New Kitten to an Existing Cat:
Introducing the new kitten to the existing cat too quickly can lead to fights. For the first three days, keep the new kitten in a separate room. This allows the existing cat to gradually get used to the new kitten's scent, even if they can't see each other.
When they meet, avoid forcing them together. Wait for the existing cat to approach the new kitten. If one of the cats becomes aggressive, separate them immediately and try again later.
Always prioritize the existing cat's needs in terms of feeding and affection to prevent it from feeling stressed.
Important Considerations for Your New Kitten:
Feed the kitten twice a day with two meals.
Keep the litter box clean and tidy, as cats are very clean creatures.
Cats typically sleep for 1620 hours a day.
Gradually transition to a new cat food over a week, rather than switching it all at once.
Once the kitten starts eating, drinking, and using the bathroom, it indicates a successful adjustment to the new environment (usually within 13 days). This means it's now able to live a normal life and has fully integrated into your family! Get ready to enjoy the joys of having a kitten in your home!
