TIPS FOR BRINGING HOME A NEW CAT

Being prepared makes all the difference when welcoming a new pet. Start by learning about your potential cat’s needs, including any breed-specific traits or health conditions that might need extra attention.

Once you’ve decided this furry friend is the perfect fit for your family, set up a quiet, safe space for them to settle into. This space should include:

• A comfy bed.
• Food and water bowls.
• At least two clean litter trays (cats are very particular about clean trays!).
• Fun enrichment like toys and scratching posts.

If you have other cats, follow the rule of one litter tray per cat, plus an extra.

Before your cat’s arrival, make sure your home is safe:

• Check that windows, fly screens, and doors are secure.
• Remove or relocate any toxic plants or flowers.
• Keep potential hazards out of reach.

BRINGING YOUR NEW CAT HOME

When picking up your new cat, ensure your contact details are correct when completing the transfer of ownership documentation. In the event your cat goes missing in the future, these are the details which will be used to contact you.

Be sure to transport your new cat home in a secure cat carrier to ensure their safety. If your cat is coming home with any personal items, like their favourite blanket or toy, place these familiar items in the carrier with them. Cats seek comfort in dark, secure spaces when they’re afraid, and so draping a large blanket or towel over the carrier can help to minimise the stress associated with transport.

Once you arrive home, place the carrier in the secure, quiet room you have prepared for them. Open the carrier door and allow your cat to leave the carrier at their own pace. Some cats will readily explore new places, while others may take longer to feel safe in their new environment. It is important not to pressure your cat to leave the carrier and explore if they are timid, as this can further exacerbate their stress.

Although it can be tempting for the whole family to play with your new cat straight away, introductions should be done gradually so as to not be overwhelming. In the initial stage, sitting down and speaking calmly to your new cat is a great place to start as they begin to adjust to their surroundings.

If you know what your cat was eating prior to coming home, this diet should be initially continued before gradually transitioning them to the diet you intend to feed them ongoing. Sudden diet changes can lead to gastrointestinal upsets, so it is important that your cat is slowly weaned off their old food by gradually mixing in increasing amounts of their new food to mitigate this risk.

AFTER BRINGING YOUR NEW CAT HOME

As your cat begins to develop more confidence in their secure space, allow them to gradually explore new areas of the house. If you have another pet at home, they should be introduced slowly and carefully, ensuring that both pets have their own secure space to retreat if they become overwhelmed.

If your cat is comfortable, continue spending time together by patting them and playing with them. Treats may be used to encourage a positive experience. Do not force affection if your cat is not receptive, as this can heighten anxiety and deter them from seeking affection in the future.

Your cat may have been given a vaccine before coming home with you, along with flea and intestinal worming treatments. If you have been advised your cat has not received their full vaccine course, it is important that this is completed with your local veterinarian so they are fully protected against these preventable diseases. Flea and worming treatments are required ongoing at regular intervals in order to prevent infection and disease. Be sure to follow any instructions outlined on the label of your selected parasite preventative (for a comprehensive guide on worming your pet, click here).

Congratulations on your new furry family member! Cat ownership can be a rewarding process, though it may also require patience, especially in the initial stages. If you are at all concerned about your new pet, do not hesitate to call your local veterinarian for advice. For further information on Virbac’s range of parasite preventatives for your new cat, click here.