Bringing a new cat or kitten into your life is an exciting and rewarding experience. Cats generally do not like change and can be very shy, so thoughtful preparation and a quiet environment are key to helping your new companion feel safe and secure as they adjust.
Before the big day: pre-adoption prep
Before you bring your new cat home, it’s essential to set up their “home base” so they don’t feel overwhelmed by a large, new house.
- The “Safe Room”: Once home, keep the new cat or kitten in a small enclosed space (like a bathroom or spare bedroom) with their litter box, food, and water.
- The Adjustment Period: Give them a few days to calm down from the move and start feeling comfortable in this space.
- Cat-proofing: Tuck away blind cords, remove toxic plants (like lilies), and ensure window screens are secure.
- Rules for the Family: Remind everyone to use “inside voices” and let the cat approach them first.
EAPL’s Requirements for Adopting a Cat or Kitten:
Age: You must be at least 21 years old to adopt.
Environment: All cats and kittens must be kept indoors only.
Welfare: Adopters must agree not to declaw their pet.
Veterinary Care: You must commit to taking your pet to the vet when appropriate.
Health Awareness: Young kittens are “fragile,” and adult cats may be stressed or traumatized by the environment change. If they develop minor ailments during the move, contact EAPL; we may assist with vet costs for stress-related issues.
Bringing your cat home
The transition is a process, not an event. Adult cats may be stressed by the move, and young kittens are still developing their immune systems. Patience is your most important tool.
- The ride home: Use a secure carrier. DO NOT open the carrier in the vehicle for any reason.
- Arrival: Take the carrier directly to the Safe Room. Open the door and let the cat come out whenever they feel ready.
- Feeding: EAPL will provide some of the food they have been eating.
- Give them time: It is normal for cats to hide or not eat for the first few days. We ask that you give them a full 2 to 3 weeks to settle in.
- Veterinary Recommendation: EAPL highly recommends a vet visit within a couple of weeks after adoption. EAPL will provide all vetting records received during their care to give to your vet.
Pro Tip: Feliway diffusers can help release calming pheromones to make the transition easier for everyone.
Introducing Other Pets
- Gradual Introduction: Slowly introduce your cat to the rest of the home by opening the “safe room” and allowing supervised exploration.
- Dog/Kitten Safety: DO NOT allow unsupervised meetings between your dogs and small kittens at first.
Ready to begin?