Bringing home a kitten for the first time is a big change for the new family member. The following tips can aid in a smooth and less stressful transition:
- Clear Time
- Set Boundaries
- Be Patient
- Give Them Space
Clear Time
Schedule your kitten’s homecoming for a time when you can be home for a few days without other obligations in order to ensure you have plenty of time to spend with them. A long three-day weekend is ideal. Prepare your home ahead of time by setting up a safe room that contains items like food and water dishes, a litter box and some toys. The safe room gives your new kitten a place to feel secure while getting used to their new home and family.
Set Boundaries
Use the safe room to confine the kitty and keep an eye on them for a few days. Keep children or any other pets away from your new furry child until they become acclimated to the new environment.
Be Patient
Take it slow. Let your new kitten come to you when they are ready. Make sure to leave the kitten’s carrier in the safe room so they will have a familiar place in which to retreat should they feel overwhelmed. Try not to hover, but check on your kitten about every half hour. Once your new kitty starts getting comfortable exploring on their own, offer them a treat or toy. Let your kitten take the lead and set the pace for your interactions realizing it may take anywhere from a few hours to a few days for them to feel comfortable enough to approach you. Once your new kitty does approach you, give them plenty of attention to help foment the bond between you.
Give Them Space
You can begin the process of introducing your new kitten to other parts of your home once they are familiar with their new litter box and feel comfortable with you. Before opening the safe room door, make sure you close off any rooms in which you don’t want kitty to explore.
