A new cat’s first room, first days and first introductions
Begin with a well-equipped safe room, preserve choice and introduce the rest of the home at the cat’s pace.
Use this guide to notice and organize information. Contact a qualified veterinarian for medical concerns or urgent change.
Build a safe first room
Choose a quiet room with a secure window, litter box, water, food placed away from the litter, a scratching surface, resting places and at least one safe hiding option. Keep toxic plants, strings, hair ties, medications and cleaning products out of reach.
Use the cat’s familiar food and litter when possible. Leave the carrier open as another hiding place and bring a familiar blanket or scent item if it is safe and available.
Let the cat set the pace
Sit quietly, offer play or treats and let the cat choose whether to approach. Avoid pulling the cat from a hiding place. Expand access to the home gradually once the cat is eating, using the litter box and exploring the room comfortably.
For resident animals, begin with separate resources and scent exchange. Move to brief, controlled visual contact before shared space. If either animal is tense, increase distance and return to an earlier step.
Track the basics
Check food, water, urine and stool every day. Note hiding, grooming, play and social interest without expecting the cat to behave like an established household member immediately.
Contact a veterinarian promptly if the cat is not eating, seems painful, vomits repeatedly or has a sudden elimination change. Repeated straining with little or no urine is an emergency, especially in male cats.
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Supports using a starter room, separating food from litter and allowing gradual adjustment.
Original source ↗02welfare org · BC SPCAHow do I introduce my new cat to my old cat?Supports separate resources and gradual introduction between a new and resident cat.
Original source ↗