🏡Settling-In and 4–6 Week Cat Introduction Guide

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Adopting a pet is a life-changing act of love. But it’s also a big adjustment — for both of you. This guide offers the key information you need to help your new furry family member settle in, stay healthy, and thrive in their forever home

​Please be patient with your new kitty! While some will settle in within just a few hours, others may take a little longer. This adjustment period is perfectly normal; they just need your time and patience ❤️.

If you have existing pets, we strongly recommend following this 4-to-6 week introduction guide. This process is crucial for long-term harmony. If you feel you will struggle to commit to this process, please re-apply when you are ready.

​Each cat must have its own separate, dedicated area (a 'sanctuary room'). To avoid unnecessary stress, the new cat must have its own new items (toys, bedding, bowls, etc.), not those belonging to your resident cat.

• ​Step 1 (Weeks 1–2): Scent Exchange.
​Action: Exchange bedding, toys, and litter between the two dedicated areas. You can also try gently grooming both cats with the same brush to further mix scents.

• ​Step 2 (Weeks 2–3): Area Exploration.
​Action: Allow each cat to explore the other's dedicated area for at least one hour at a time while the other cat is safely contained elsewhere. This is a non-visual territory investigation.

• ​Step 3 (Weeks 3–4): Visual Contact.
​Action: Introduce visual contact through a secure barrier (like a mesh or glass door) for short, positive sessions. Always pair this with a positive experience, like feeding or playing.

• ​Step 4 (Weeks 4–5): Supervised Physical Contact.
​Action: Allow physical access in a neutral room, but only with strict supervision. Keep these initial sessions very short (a few minutes) and always end on a high note before any tension occurs.

• ​Step 5 (Week 6+): Free Access.
​Action: Begin allowing free, unsupervised access for short periods. By this point, you should be ready to enjoy a much happier adoption for all parties!

​Remember: If things are taking longer or if you observe any signs of stress or conflict at any point, do not rush. Simply take one step back in the process and start again at the previous successful step 🐾

Don’t rush the relationship. Sit near them, speak softly, let them approach you. Earn trust through consistency, patience, and kindness. Remember: they may have a past you don’t know — but with you, they can have a safe and loving future.

You’re not alone. Whether it’s behavior questions, vet concerns, or just feeling unsure — reach out to your rescue, your vet, or a local trainer. We’re here to support you and your new best friend.