Bringing a new cat into a household takes a small amount of planning beforehand – cats do have some basic needs and by providing these needs you will help to ensure your cat’s long term health and welfare. Cats are by nature ‘control freaks’ they like to have their own space and have control over that space which also includes their human companions. Here are a few tips to help you start your new cat off on the right ‘paw’.
If you pretend your cat is a visiting dignitary (which all cats do believe) your journey to a successful partnership begins by organizing their living quarters to reflect their honoured position within the household. Once you realize that you have now taken on the role of personal servant then things will go much more smoothly and will be easier for you.
Your cat’s basic needs include:
- An area to call their own
- A place to rest (which will soon become every bed, sofa and chair in the house)
- Food and water bowls – not located near the litter box
- A litter box – which is in a quiet but easily accessible location (that is also private)
- A scratching post or a climbing perch
- Toys – lots and lots of toys!
Give your new cat a few days to adjust to their new surroundings; don’t rush matters and let them set their own pace by letting them realize that they have entered a safe and secure home. Cats can adapt quickly and be quite social with other pets and people if they are given the time and opportunity to control the socialization process. Arrange for a health examination and viral screening for your new family member as soon as possible (this screens them for Feline Leukemia and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus).
Provide your new cat with regular Veterinary health care, including annual health examinations and needed immunizations to protect against preventable diseases. Fairmont Animal Hospital is also a wealth of knowledge and information that will help you keep your new feline companion happy and healthy for many years to come.
Enjoy this wonderful new partnership!
Written by: Marie Hearn
