Bringing A Young Cat Home: Everything You Need To Know

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Bringing your new young cat home can be challenging, but there is plenty of advice available to help you both adapt. Cats notoriously dislike change, so any new environment can be stressful for them – particularly if this is the first big change they’ve ever experienced.

Luckily, there are ways to ensure that any move is a stress-free experience not only for you, but for your cat, and that their excitement surpasses their trepidation.

Essentials

Ideally, you should have one litter tray per cat, so take this into account if you’re bringing your feline friend back to a multi-cat household. Cats are very particular about their toilet environment and prefer privacy, so make sure you place the litter tray somewhere discreet, such as under the stairs or behind a storage unit in the bathroom.

If your new cat is already used to a particular type of litter, it’s a good idea you continue with that kind as any changes can cause them stress. Keep the tray far from your cat’s food bowl and make sure there is always access to fresh drinking water. Consider placing several bowls of water throughout the house just to make sure your cat is drinking enough.

Safe space

Providing a secluded area where your cat can feel safe is a good idea while it’s still getting used to its new home. Cats particularly like being up high – it makes them feel safe and allows them to see everything below them – so consider providing a resting place for them on a high level. It’s also advisable to provide a resting area at ground level, preferably in a secluded spot like under a table, to give your cat a choice of places to sleep.

Time to explore

Once your new pet has settled into its forever home, why not look to expand its territory a bit? This comes with the caveat that you’ll want to wait until the vet gives you the ‘all clear’, particularly when it comes to vaccinations.

Letting a cat go outside for the first time, especially when they’re young, can be daunting. Thankfully, with one simple hack, you can allow your pet to explore the great outdoors without encountering any hazards. A cat fence topper fitted to your boundary is a quick and easy way to secure your cat within the safety of your garden.

Entertainment

If you’ve ever met a kitten or young cat before, you’ll be keenly aware of the fact that, when they’re not sleeping, they’re exploring. It’s therefore vital that you provide them with plenty of entertainment to not only keep them amused, but to ensure they grow up fit, healthy, and alert.

There are a whole range of cat toys on the market, from realistic fake mice to dangly teasers to catnip filled bags and more. Toys should help your new cat settle into its environment and strengthen the bond it has with you. Scratching posts are particularly beneficial.

Conclusion

Cats can find it difficult to adapt to change, but there are ways to alleviate their stress when moving them into their forever home. With our advice, you should be able to welcome your indoor cat into your life without any issues.

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