Cats experience a new home very differently from dogs. Where a dog might bound in, a cat needs to feel in control of a small, safe territory first. Rushing the welcome is the fastest way to a stressed, hiding cat; patience in the first 48 hours pays off for months.
Set up a safe room
Before the cat arrives, prepare one quiet room with everything they need: a litter tray, food and water (placed away from the litter), a cosy hiding spot, a scratching post and a few toys. This becomes their base camp while the rest of the house stays off-limits for now.
The first two days
- Let the cat come out of the carrier in their own time — do not tip them out.
- Sit quietly in the room and let them approach you; avoid looming or picking them up.
- Keep noise, visitors and other pets away.
- Expect hiding and a small appetite — both are normal.
Reading the signs
A cat that starts eating, using the litter tray and exploring the room is settling well. Slow blinks, relaxed posture and a willingness to be near you are all good signs. Only once they are confident in the safe room should you gradually open up the rest of the home.
