Adopting a cat from a shelter or rescue is incredibly rewarding. What’s more, so many cat shelters around the country are overrun. However, the adjustment period can be challenging for a cat coming out of a stressful environment. With preparation and patience, you can help your new feline friend settle happily into your home. Here are tips for bringing home and caring for a rescue cat.
Ready The House Before Your Cat Arrives
Creating a comfortable space in advance helps ease the transition to a new home. Set up a quiet room with food, water, a litter box, a scratching post, a bed, and toys away from noisy appliances. This safe zone gives your cat time to acclimate.
Cat-proof the rest of the house by storing harmful cleaners and covering vents and wires they could get stuck in. Install child locks so they can’t sneak outside. A safe, ready home reduces stress.
Keep Initial Introductions Brief
When you first bring your rescue cat home, limit early interactions to short, gentle sessions. Sit nearby and talk softly but avoid prolonged direct handling those first few days. Let them approach you at their own pace.
Restrict introductions with kids, other pets, and strangers at first so as not to overwhelm them. Take things slowly to build trust.
Observe Your Cat’s Personality And Needs
Spend time quietly observing your new cat’s demeanour so you can tune into their unique personality and respond appropriately. Are they shy and need more space? Outgoing but get overstimulated? Watch their body language.
Be mindful of any sensitivity around legs or feet which could stem from past abuse. Understanding your cat helps you support any anxieties or special needs.
Find Food That Your New Cat Loves
Your cat may refuse food at first out of stress. Try different textures like canned pâté, minced and broth varieties to entice their appetite. Place food bowls in calm, easily accessed areas.
Be patient and consult a vet if appetite issues persist. Finding foods your cat enjoys helps prevent malnutrition. Prioritise meeting nutritional needs while they adjust. So many cat foods are full of additives that they don’t need. If you’re looking for nutritious pet food with all-natural ingredients, check out Applaws. They use the finest cuts, and they promise that their food will only ever contain the listed ingredients.
Build Routine And Consistent Schedules
Cats feel more secure with predictable routines for feeding, playtime, and litter box cleaning. Maintain regular schedules, even having set times you brush them or give treats. Consistency and gentle handling builds trust.
Make gradual location changes. Start by playing in their safe room, then nearby areas, so they can explore at their own pace. Patience in building routines prevents setbacks.
Ensure Plenty Of Rest And “Alone Time”
Cats require ample undisturbed rest periods. Ensure they have cosy spots to sleep undisturbed, like high perches, cat trees, and basement areas you can restrict humans and other pets from coming into.
Use Stimulating Play To Build Bonding
Gentle interactive play helps traumatised cats view you positively. Try wand toys that give them “hunting” enrichment without being touched. Move toy strings slowly at first to avoid startling them. Over time increase playtime once they engage.
Bringing a rescue cat home requires a lot of adaptation on their part. With a commitment to patience, care, and routine you can help even the wariest cat gain comfort and trust. Prioritise their needs, and your new feline companion will settle happily into your loving home.