So you have a new cat

Bringing a new cat home can be exciting. By adding a new member to your family, you are ready for a lifetime of fun and furry friendship. However, if you are wondering just how to prepare for your new addition in order to reduce anxiety for both you and your cat, then read on. We have collected some advice on how you can get ready, welcome your cat home, and alleviate stress.

Scent matters

Getting your home ready for your cat is one of the most important parts of becoming a cat owner. Creating a calming environment for them is an essential step in their journey to becoming happy and settled. Before you even bring your cat home, you could take an old t-shirt or a blanket of yours to their old home, and let them get familiar with your scent. Then, bring it with you on your way home with them.

Prepare a space

While your cat is most likely to roam all over your house, they will also appreciate having certain areas that are stable. For example, decide where you are going to place their bed, scratching post, food, water bowl and litter tray ahead of time, so that it is easy for them to become familiar with their new surroundings, as well as with you. You should also provide them with cat toys and consider clearing high up areas, as cats love to climb and hide on top of fridges, bookcases, and similar high surfaces!

Heading home

When the time comes to take your cat home, bear in mind that cats do not travel happily – travel is generally a huge cause of pet stress. Don’t be surprised if your cat seems distressed, just make sure you have a sturdy carrier (and one that is easy to clean). Consider using a calming spray to help your cat to travel that little bit easier.

At home

When your cat is situated at home, let them come out of their carrier in their own time. They may be shy, so a good idea is to get down on their level and say their name gently. Don’t force interaction on your cat as they get settled in; they may want to explore, or even hide. Make sure that your home is quiet enough for them to do this in peace, and that you wait for them to come to you.

Try Pet Remedy

With these tips, you should be able to get your cat home and settled with relative ease. Each cat is different and takes a different amount of time to settle in, but if your cat is especially nervous while travelling or being in its new environment, it might be time to try Pet Remedy.

Our calming natural products start to help immediately and calm your cat without sedating them. You can expect your cat to be more receptive to you and to settle into their new home. Don’t worry – soon you will wonder how you ever lived without them!