Adverse Behaviors in New Cats: What to Expect at Home

Common Unsettling Behaviors in Cats Adjusting to a New Home:

When a cat arrives at a new home, especially kittens, they may exhibit several unsettling behaviors such as vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite.

These symptoms are typically a normal stress response and usually resolve within 23 days. However, if the cat continues to display these signs, it's important to seek veterinary care promptly.

Tip: For the first meal at home, consider offering a nutritional paste and glucose water instead of regular food to ease the digestive system. Nutritional paste is easier to digest and less irritating to the intestines than dry kibble, but it should not be used as a longterm substitute for a cat's diet.

In cases where vomiting and diarrhea are present, probiotics can be administered to alleviate symptoms.

Meowing

Cats may feel extremely anxious in a new environment and resort to meowing to express their unease.

As a pet owner, gently pick up the cat while petting it and calling its name to help it become familiar with your voice and scent.

At night, place the cat's bed in a location where it can easily see you, avoiding confining it in a cage or outside.

Avoid the habit of speaking to or picking up the cat every time it meows, as this can lead to a persistent habit of excessive meowing.

Hiding in Corners

When feeling anxious or scared, cats tend to seek refuge in narrow, dark spaces such as under sofas or in boxes.

Instead of forcing the cat out, simply place its food and water in visible spots. Once it becomes accustomed to the environment, it will naturally come out to play.

Accidental Urination and Defecation

When a cat enters a new environment, it may urinate or defecate anywhere due to the change in its familiar surroundings and lack of recognition of previous elimination areas.

Upon arrival, it's essential for the owner to introduce the cat to its designated litter box.

Not all cats will use a litter box, but if accidents occur, collect the waste (both feces and urine) with paper and place it in the litter box. Take the cat to smell it, and repeat this process. Persistence will pay off!