Welcoming a New Cat: What First-Time Cat Parents Should Know
Inside this Article:
Bringing a new cat home is an exciting milestone, yet it’s a big adjustment for both the cat and its new family. Cats are naturally cautious, and each has unique needs that can make their transition to a new space smoother—or more challenging. Here’s a guide for helping your new furry family member settle in comfortably, with a focus on creating a safe, supportive environment.
1. Provide a Secure Space to Help Them Adapt
When a cat arrives in a new home, everything is unfamiliar: the scents, the layout, and even the sounds. According to the ASPCA, it can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks for a cat to adapt to a new environment, with shyer cats sometimes needing months to fully come out of their shell (ASPCA, n.d.). Giving them a dedicated, safe space—whether it’s a room or a cozy corner—helps them feel secure and less overwhelmed. Some cats might explore within hours, while others may hide for days before venturing out.
Patience is key. Forcing them to socialize before they’re ready can set back their trust-building process. Leaving treats and toys nearby encourages exploration, but it’s important to let them do so on their own terms.
References:
ASPCA. (n.d.). Bringing a New Cat Home. Retrieved from ASPCA website2. Food & Water Placement: Finding the Right Spot
Placement of food and water is more important than you might think. Cats generally prefer eating and drinking in calm, private areas, away from high-traffic zones. Dr. Kristyn Vitale, a feline behavior researcher, has found that cats show a preference for stable, quiet feeding locations, which can reduce stress and help them feel more secure (Vitale et al., 2019).
Studies have shown that cats, due to their solitary nature, feel safest when they can eat and drink without distractions or feeling exposed. Consider setting up food and water in a quiet corner close to their initial resting space, which also minimizes their need to explore unfamiliar areas too soon.
References:
Vitale, K. R., Behnke, A. C., & Udell, M. A. (2019). Attachment bonds between domestic cats and humans. Current Biology, 29(18), R864-R865.3. A Wool Cat Cave: The Ideal Safe Haven
Cats are instinctively drawn to cozy, enclosed spaces that make them feel protected. Wool cat caves, like the ones we offer at Moonbowbyher, are perfect for this purpose.
The scent of natural wool can intrigue and comfort cats due to the unique oils in the wool fibers that mirror familiar animal scents. Additionally, researchers from the University of Illinois found that enclosed spaces significantly reduce a cat’s stress levels and enhance their sense of security, especially in new environments (Herron, 2019).
Another study from the University of Utrecht showed that shelter cats with access to hideaways had lower stress levels and adjusted more quickly to new environments (Vinke, 2014). A wool cat cave can provide this very comfort: a cozy, enclosed area that aligns with a cat’s instinctive need for a “den.”
References:
Herron, M. (2019). The Effect of Hideaways on Shelter Cats. Journal of Applied Animal Welfare Science, 22(3), 259-268.Vinke, C. M., Godijn, L. M., & Van Der Leij, W. J. R. (2014). Will a hiding box provide stress reduction for shelter cats?. Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 160, 86-93.
4. Handcrafted with Heart: A Unique Home for Your Unique Cat
At Moonbowbyher, each cat cave is handcrafted, with careful attention to detail and design. We want our products to be as unique as your cat, so every piece is made with care and love. Our cat caves are designed to serve as both a cozy resting place and a stylish addition to your home, providing both aesthetics and comfort for your pet. With sustainable materials and a natural design approach, these wool caves reflect the nurturing spirit behind every product, ensuring your cat feels safe, curious, and ready to settle into their new home.
