When you adopt or foster a feline friend, you’re overflowing with excitement and can’t wait to demonstrate all your affection. However, most kitties need some personal space and time to adjust.
“Any change in routine or environment can be very stressful for a cat, and we’re doing both when we adopt them and take them into our homes,” says Mary Molloy, CPDT-KA, an animal behavior consultant with Behavior Vets of NYC. “It’s essential to start them in a smaller space, like a bedroom, with everything they need, and let them decompress and adjust at their own pace. Don’t force them to explore—let them do it on their own when they’re ready.”
As Daily Paws reports, Molloy recommends bonding with your cat gradually using these methods:
Play and Interact, but Respect Boundaries
Spend time with them by offering opportunities for play and interaction. However, don’t force interactions on them. “While you’re still getting to know one another, it’s even more important to ask the cat if they’re comfortable with petting or being held at that moment and respect the answer, even if it’s ‘no’,” Molloy says. “This is a fantastic way to build trust, which is the foundation of any bond.”
If kitty is particularly shy or nervous, you can play with them with a toy under the door, even if they’re not ready to get close to you.
Just Hang Out
Another way to let your new cat get used to you is to just hang out together. “Don’t do anything to or with the cat—let them stay where they feel safe, whether that’s on your bed or under it. Choose a place some distance away.
Put on some gentle music and read a book. Then, simply ignore your cat,” she adds. “This lets them get used to your scent and presence in a non-confrontational way that doesn’t force social interaction before they’re ready.”
—
Photo Credit JW Design / Shutterstock.com