Deciding to adopt a pet can be both exciting and a little worrisome. Thinking about how your new furry friend will adjust to your home and family members is a legitimate reason to be cautious. Dogs, for the most part, adjust easily to new homes and owners. Cats, on the other hand, can be more of a challenge.
As cats tend to be relatively more independent than most types of pets, they may not require as much attention when under your care. Nevertheless, Valley Animal Hospital has the tips you need for helping your new purring pet adjust to a new home.
We treat pets of different types and sizes. If the newest addition to your family needs some care, then contact us today!
Check for Allergies
One of the most common issues people deal with are allergies. If you’re unsure if you or another member of the family is allergic to cats, then have yourself tested. Also keep in mind that it isn’t uncommon to grow accustomed to a cat’s presence despite having allergies. Adopt a breed with low allergens. For more tips on allergies, check in with one of our vets.
Make Sure He/She is Vaccinated
It’s extremely important to know if a possible candidate for adoption has received its vaccinations. Fortunately, most centers ensure that animals up for adoption have received their shots and/or have been spayed/neutered. Vaccinations are important since they’ll prevent your new furry loved one from becoming ill. Make sure to spay/neuter your cat as well as soon as their age permits.
Let Them Adjust
Like any animal in a foreign environment, cats will be extremely cautious of their new surroundings. It’s normal for them to be anti-social during the first few days in your home. You may even notice them hiding and only coming out to eat or use their litter box. This is completely understandable. Your cat will need some time to adjust.
If you have young children, they’ll most likely want to play with this newest addition to the family. Explain to them that your cat will need some time to get used to being in a new home. After a few weeks, your cat should begin to adjust and they’ll be ready to play and be pampered.
When Nature Calls
Cats have a natural tendency to cover their waste. They aren’t like dogs who will stand next to the back door when they need to relieve themselves. Cats need litter boxes. The great thing about these boxes is that they’re inexpensive and a good-sized box of litter will last several weeks. If you happen to adopt a kitten, place it in the litter box so they can become accustomed with it. And be sure to always leave the box somewhere accessible, such as a bathroom or laundry room. Never close the door, otherwise your little furry loved one will have an accident on the floor!
Giving Attention
Although most cats need adequate time to adjust to a new home, some may take well to their new surroundings. If you happen to adopt one like this, they’ll be playing and wanting to be pet in no time. It’s important to give your new cat plenty of attention in order to show him/her that they’re extremely loved.
Run around with or chase him/her and pet and hold them as much as possible. Be sure and provide enough toys, such as stuffed mice, bell balls and a scratch post. The more attention you give your new cat, the faster they’ll see that they’re being welcomed into their new home.
We Want to Hear from You
Adopting a new cat is exciting, but we understand that doing so can raise questions. If you have any questions about helping your cat become accustomed to your home, then we want to hear from you. We’ll be more than happy to provide information and advice! To learn more about pet ownership, or if your pet cat needs a check-up, then visit our pet hospital in McAllen today!
I didn’t realize that cats are extremely cautious of their new surroundings. I can see why this would be important to be aware of if you are wanting to get a cat. My sister is thinking about getting a pet for her children so they can learn how to be responsible. I’ll have to point this out to her if she gets one.