Bringing a new cat home, or moving to a new home yourself, can be exciting, overwhelming, and full of cardboard boxes. While we might feel the stress of unpacking and getting settled, our cats feel it too - probably even more.
Cats don’t love sudden change (honestly, same) so it’s important to help them ease into their new surroundings gently and patiently.
Here are some tried and tested ways to help make the transition as smooth and stress-free as possible for your feline friend.
Create a Safe Haven
The first step? Give your cat a quiet space all their own. Set up a cosy retreat in a spare room or quiet corner with:
- A comfy bed or soft blanket
- A few favourite toys
- Food, water, and a litter box nearby
This calm space can become their sanctuary - a spot to retreat to when feeling overwhelmed or wanting some quiet time alone. Let them come out and explore at their own pace.
Keep Them Indoors (For Now)
As tempting as it might be to open the garden door and let your cat explore, it’s best to hold off. New sights, smells, and sounds can be overwhelming - and if they dart outside too soon, they may get lost or disoriented.
Instead, keep your cat indoors for at least a few weeks while they get used to their new environment. Once they seem confident and settled, you can try short, supervised outdoor sessions.
Litter Box Logic
Cats are creatures of habit and can be territorial, so make litter boxes a priority. The general rule of thumb is one box per cat, plus one extra.
Place litter boxes in quiet, low-traffic areas of the home and don’t be afraid to experiment with:
- Different types of litter
- Covered vs. open boxes
- Various locations
If your cat isn’t burying their poop, they might be unhappy with the box setup. A little troubleshooting can go a long way in encouraging that behaviour. If you've tried it all and they still don't bury their poop, don't panic - some cats are just unique!
Mealtime Without Interruption
If you share your home with both cats and dogs, mealtimes can get… interesting. Dogs are notorious for sniffing out a cat’s dinner (and helping themselves!). Keep things peaceful by feeding your cat in a raised spot or using a wall-mounted or window perch feeding bowl.
This not only protects your cat’s food but gives them a stress-free place to enjoy their meals without fear that their meal will be stolen!
Hydration Help
Many cats don’t drink as much water as they should. To encourage hydration:
- Scatter water bowls in a few places around the house
- Try a water fountain for running, oxygenated water
- Add water to wet or dry food to boost moisture intake
Some cats are surprisingly picky about their water, so offering a few options helps them find what they prefer.
Banish Boredom
Indoor cats need more than just food and naps - they need stimulation, too! Keeping their minds and bodies active can benefit not only their emotional health, but their physical health too:
- Cat trees and condos
- Scratching posts (vertical and horizontal)
- Window perches with a view
- Toys they can chase, bat, and pounce on
Scratching is a natural behaviour that helps cats stretch, mark territory, and de-stress. By offering a variety of scratchers, you’ll protect your furniture (!!!) and keep your cat happy.
Slow & Steady
Above all, remember that settling in takes time. Be patient, go slow, and let your cat set the pace. With a little thoughtfulness and a lot of love, your house will soon feel like home.
