When you’re bringing a new cat into your life, there are a few steps you should take to help them feel at home. You’ll need to plan ahead and give them plenty of time and space to adjust to their new life. With the following pet care guide, you can smoothly integrate your newest feline friend into the family.

What to Do When You Adopt a New Cat

Preparing Your Home

Before you even take your cat home, gather the right supplies. Purchase nutritional cat food, bowls for food and water, a bed, litter, and a litter box, and a scratching post. If you already have cats at home, make sure they have their own litter boxes. Get a good variety of toys to entertain your feline friend. Make your home completely cat-safe by keeping toxic substances such as pesticides, household cleaners, and medications out of reach.

Making Your Cat Feel Welcome

Happiness and comfort are both essential elements of pet care. Create a quiet, private area for your cat to adjust to their new home. Tight spots make cats feel safer, so provide a box, basket, or tunnel for your feline to hide in when they need their space. Entice kitty with toys and treats to establish trust. Allow them to sniff around and come to you on their own, but give them some time alone if they display any signs of fear or aggression. After they determine their new environment is safe, they’ll settle in and join the family.

Introducing New Cats to Dogs

If you already have a dog at home, pet care experts recommend obedience training before introducing them to a new cat. Keep in mind that animals can be territorial, so you shouldn’t let them meet right away. Place your cat in a separate room with all of their supplies. Leave items that smell like your dog, such as bedding, in the room to get your cat accustomed to their scent. Once they both settle, switch places and allow your cat to explore the house for a bit.

The introduction itself will take a lot of patience, composure, and treats. Your main goal will be getting them to tolerate the presence of one another without hostility. Bring your dog into the room on a leash, but don’t immediately lead them to your cat. If possible, have another family member or close friend provide your cat with comfort. Reward good and gentle behavior with treats. Stay calm, but watch their interactions closely, and use commands if your dog gets too excited. Separate them immediately if the introduction starts to go south. Supervise future interactions until you’re certain they can get along.

Make sure your new feline friend is in good shape by bringing them to Dykes Veterinary Clinic of Baldwin County, AL. These veterinarians are committed to providing superior pet care personalized to your cat or dog’s needs. New patients will receive a thorough physical examination, a new or updated vaccination schedule, and preventative care to ensure they live a long and healthy life. Visit their website for new patient information. Call (251) 943-3211 to make an appointment.