Settling Your Cat In 

Preparation and planning before a cat arrives is essential, the transition needs to be stress-free. A cat needs time and space to adjust, if the right equipment is there it will be easier.

To help the process check with the cat breeder what the cat likes to eat and drink and have some food ready.

The kitten may feel disorientated on its first journey, as this will have been the first time it’s had no other feline company, even  an adult cat can feel disorientated. While travelling don’t let the cat out of the carrier, talk to it calmly, to keep it calm.

This is an exciting time, as everyone will want to meet the new arrival, however make sure there are not too many people around when it is introduced. Don’t be tempted to rush in to the living room and let the cat out straight away. Instead take the cat to its litter tray, sleeping space, food and water bowls are going to be permanently positioned. This helps with routine. And a drink may comfort the cat.

A kitten will want to explore, it must be allowed to do this in its own time. However, supervision is wise just in case it gets stuck. Handle the cat calmly, it may defend against over-enthusiastic handling. Stroke the cat as it passes and talk to it. A human voice can be very reassuring and helps them settle in. When a new cat is tired it should be left to sleep, it will probably find its own bed. Cats sleep more than other animals, this helps growth and digestion of food.

If you already have another cat, confine the new arrival to a small area first so the animals can adjust to each other.

If you have a baby a good idea is to put a cat net over the cot or pram. A cat is unlikely to harm the baby, but may be attracted to the warm body and may want to curl up alongside.