Part 4: What to Expect during The First Week with Your Cat
Dear Pet Mom,
The first week with a new cat is a special one. Whether you’ve dreamed about this for years or just decided to adopt recently, those first few days set the tone for the relationship ahead. Think of it as the gentle beginning of your life together, filled with curiosity, quiet moments, and a whole lot of learning.
This post is written with first-time cat parents in mind. If you’re adopting your second or third cat, I’ll be sharing a separate guide on multi-cat introductions soon—stay tuned.
Start Slow: Let Your Cat Decompress
When your new cat arrives, everything is unfamiliar: new scents, sounds, and people. Give your cat the first 30 minutes to an hour alone in their starter room so they can decompress. This is especially important if they seem anxious or choose to hide right away.
If your kitty seems curious and wants to explore, that’s great. Just be sure the room is cat-safe before letting them roam freely. Remember, every cat adjusts differently; some need a few hours, others may need a few days.
Be Present, But Not Pushy
Once your cat has had time to settle, spend time in the room with them. Sit on the floor, read a book, or work quietly on your laptop. Just let your presence become part of their new environment.
Watch their body language closely. If they’re willing to interact, try engaging with a wand toy or rolling a ball gently across the floor. If they stay hidden, don’t force it. Simply being there is enough. Avoid direct eye contact, which can feel threatening to a scared cat.
Let Them Associate You With Comfort
You want your cat to see you as a source of safety, fun, and nourishment. That starts with patience and consistency. Don’t try to lure them out with food while you're watching; instead, leave their meals in the room and step back if needed.
Over time, your cat will begin to associate your presence with good things. Play regularly. Gentle, fun sessions help build trust and strengthen your bond.
If you’re up for it, consider feeding by hand during the first week instead of using an auto feeder. This can help build a strong connection with kitty. However, here’s a heads-up: with especially food-motivated cats, this may lead to future mealtime “demands” (meows, pacing, or full-on cat drama). Choose what works best for your lifestyle.
Establish a Gentle Routine
Cats thrive on predictability. From day one, try to stick to a basic routine:
Feed at the same times each morning and evening
Play at predictable times, even just for 10 minutes
Keep your own routine as consistent as possible if your cat shares your space
If you’ve set them up in a room you frequently use, like a home office, stick to your normal schedule. Routine brings stability, which helps your cat feel secure.
Gradually Expand Their World
If your cat is calm and showing interest, you can begin introducing them to the rest of your home after two or three days. Start slow. Don’t give them full access to the entire house just yet.
For example, let them explore just one new area, such as the upstairs floor, before opening more rooms. Some cats adjust quickly, while others take their time. Follow your cat’s cues and go at their pace.
Monitor Their Health
During the first week, watch for signs of stress or digestive upset. A little loose stool can be normal during transitions, but if diarrhea continues or if your cat isn’t eating, peeing, or pooping regularly, check in with the rescue organization.
Sometimes, stress or dietary changes can cause temporary issues, but it’s always better to ask than to wait and worry.
Build a Foundation That Lasts
The first week is less about cuddles and more about creating a sense of safety and rhythm. Through calm presence, gentle routine, and a bit of patience, you're helping your cat understand: this is home now.
You might not become best friends right away, and that’s okay. In the quiet moments, those peaceful periods spent near each other, you’re already forming the beginning of a lifelong bond.
📚This post is part of The Cat Adoption Series
Start from the beginning or jump ahead:
