New cat
How to set up your home to help your new cat settle in quickly
Cats, Adopters, Cat behaviour, Kitten
If you've adopted an adult cat, you'll be advised to keep them in for 4 weeks. Some cats will tolerate this period well, but others will look to go outside sooner. It is best to stick to this timescale if you can, particularly if your cat has shown signs of anxiety.
It is useful to get your cat used to being called to come to you. Have some treats in a tin and shake the tin along with their name and then give them a treat - your cat will learn that the tin shake means treats and will come running! You then have a little bit of control when you go outside to call them in.
Think about how you intend to give your cat access to outside every day.
You will need to assess your local environment to decide if there should be any limits on your cat's access to outside. You may wish to confine your cat at twilight so that it can remain indoors at night, or limit their access outside at times when traffic may be busy.
Keep a litter tray available indoors while your cat is transitioning to the outside world.
Most cats adapt extremely quickly to exploring their new territory outside, and probably won't need a gradual introduction of this kind. More timid cats may benefit from gradually increasing periods outside in the first few weeks.
Always be guided by your cat and do n't force them to do anything they don't want to do – some cats are happy curled up on the sofa and never want to venture outside!