How to Introduce a Cat to a New Home

The first thing to keep in mind when you bring a new cat into your home is to make the transition as easy as possible. When you first arrive to pick up your new cat you should try to be as relaxed as possible. Cats can sense people’s emotions, so if you are calm and relaxed he is more likely to be calm and relaxed. Talk to your new cat in a soft, soothing voice and pet him. Scratch his chin, behind his ears and snuggle with him prior to putting him into a cat carrier. Most cats will howl and cry while they are in a cat carrier, so be sure to talk to him in a calm and soothing voice during the drive to his new home.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Once you arrive home, do not take the carrier inside your home and just let the cat go. You should take the cat carrier into the area where the litter box is located and place the carrier beside the litter box. Next, shut the door to that room and then open the door on the cat carrier. Allow the cat to emerge on his own time table, but don’t be surprised if he comes out immediately.
2. Once he comes out of the cat carrier, give him a few minutes to explore the room. Then, pick him up and place him in the litter box. He may or may not use the litter box at this time. Some cats are too excited to potty, but others may be stressed out from the drive and use the litter box right away. It is important that your cat is given adequate time to explore the room where his litter box is located before he is allowed to explore the rest of his home.
3. After your new cat is fully acquainted with his “litter box room” you can open the door and let him explore the rest of his new home. Your home should already be setup for your new family member. This means you will have screens on your windows, the flue to your chimney should be closed and toxic plants and substances should be removed or locked away.
4. Your cat will probably locate his food and water bowls rather quick. There should be water available in the dish at all times. However, you should refrain from feeding your new cat for about an hour. This will allow him time to explore his new home and settle his nerves. When you do offer food, do not be surprised if your new cat does not seem hungry. He may be too wound up to think about food.
5. If your cat starts to do something that is destructive or starts to play with something that he should not, tell him “no.” Many cat owners will keep a water bottle on hand. Misting the cat with water and telling him “no” can go a long way in teaching a new cat his boundaries. For instance, if you do not want your cat lying on the dinner table or walking across the kitchen counters, mist him with water and tell him “no” the first time you catch him doing it. Many new cat owners are shy about disciplining a new pet, but it is important to the cat that he knows what is expected of him from the beginning. It sets the tone in the home and can save him from getting into a lot of trouble down the road.
6. You should have things on hand to entertain your cat. A scratching post is a must, as is a yarn ball and cat toys. Playing with your cat with cat toys can help you and your new cat bond, too.
7. You should take time to hold, pet and talk to your new cat each day. In the beginning your new cat may not be happy to just sit on your lap and be petted. But, as he becomes more relaxed in the home and bonds with you he will come around. You will soon learn the ways your cat likes to be touched.
8. It is a good idea that you do not have a lot of guests in the home or throw any parties until your cat has truly settled into his new home. Being around a lot of strangers while your cat is still warming up to his new home can be overwhelming for him. Allow him time to come out of his shell, find his favorite hiding places and get on a good routine before you open up your home to a lot of guests or a party.
9. It is important that when you leave the home that you tell your new cat goodbye and pet him. When you return be sure to pick him up or pet him as soon as possible. This can go far in helping your cat relax and it reinforces the bond between you and your new cat.