Adopting a New Pet

Congratulations! You’ve taken a big step and adopted a new family member! You might have lots of questions. What do I need? What’s the best way to introduce them to our current pets?

Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Here’s everything you need to know – if we missed anything, please feel free to shoot us an email at [email protected]. We’re here to help!

I adopted a cat, what now?

STEP ONE: PURCHASE SUPPLIES FOR YOUR NEW CAT

Make sure to get everything you will need for your new cat before you bring them home. Visit your local pet store or shop online to purchase the essentials!

THE ESSENTIALS:

Food – Buy the best you can afford
Feeding Bowls – fresh water daily
Litter Box – keep separate from the feeding area
Litter Scoop – AKA “Pooper Scooper”
Litter – Clumping is easiest to maintain
Cat Carrier (bring this with your for pick up!)
Scratch Post
Toys: exercise for kitty – fun for both of you

THE EXTRAS:

Cat Bed
Cat Tower – Cats like to be up high
Catnip
Fancy Cat Toys
Cat Treats

STEP TWO: PREPARE YOUR HOME

CONSIDER SETTING UP A SAFE PLACE FOR YOUR NEW PET

If you are introducing your new cat to pets at home, setting up your cats bed, water, food bowls, toys and litter box in a bedroom, bathroom, or office will give them a safe place to get to know your existing pets!

Even though your new pet is coming from a foster home, moving to a different home can be overwhelming. Starting them off in their own safe space is a great idea for any new pet.

Make sure there are plenty of places for your new cat to retreat to and take naps if necessary and consider cat-proofing your home. Think about all of the small edible things they could get into and make sure that all cords are tucked away.

Also, make sure that you don’t have any plants that might be toxic to your new cat.

STEP THREE: GET TO KNOW YOUR NEW CAT

GIVE YOUR CAT TIME TO ADJUST

Chances are your kitty might be a little nervous in their new environment. Give them space and time to begin to feel comfortable and safe. Be sure to visit them frequently in their safe place to spend short amounts of time with them. Getting down on the floor at their level is is much less intimidating and sure to get you a visit from your new friend. Make sure that they are eating, drinking and using the litter box for the first few days.

Gradually spend more time with them and open up more of your home to them as they start to gain confidence. You can leave their essentials in their room until they are completely acclimated to their new home.

Be patient with them and yourself! This is a big change for them and they will need time to settle in.