How to Introduce a New Cat to Your Home

Bringing a new cat home is exciting, but it can also be stressful for both you and your feline friend. If your new cat is hiding in corners or reluctant to explore, don’t worry! I’ve put together some tips and tricks on how to make it easier for your cat to relax in their new environment.

 

Welcoming a New Cat

A change of environment is stressful for most cats and it can take a few weeks for them (and you!) to feel relaxed. The first few hours after bringing your new cat home play a big role in how they adjust. Remember not to rush them – prepare to be patient and don’t pressure your cat into doing things they may not yet be ready for.

Creating a Safe Space

Before letting your cat out of their carrier, set up a quiet, calm room away from busy areas like the kitchen or living room. This will be their safe space while they get used to their new home.

Make sure the room includes:

✅ Food and water
✅ At least one litter tray (placed far from food and water)
✅ A hiding or sleeping spot (a cardboard box or cat bed works well)
✅ A scratching post
✅ Toys for enrichment

 

How to Help Your New Cat Settle.

 

Visit your cat before adoption (if possible)

If you’re adopting from a shelter or breeder, try to visit your cat a few times before bringing them home. This helps them get used to your scent and presence.

Pro Tip: Ask if you can rub a clean cloth over your cat and place it in their new safe room. This familiar scent will make their new space feel more comfortable. You can also do this in reverse—bring a cloth with your home’s scent to your cat before adoption.

Before you go to pick them up, try visiting your cat a few times so they have more time to get to know you.

 

Use the Same Litter

Cats can be picky about litter. Find out what litter your cat has been using and stick with the same type initially to avoid stress.

 

Try a Calming Plug-in Diffuser

Using a pheromone diffuser like Feliway in your cat’s safe room can reduce stress and anxiety. These products mimic natural feline pheromones, making the transition smoother.

 

Give Your Cat Time to Adjust

The best thing you can give your new cat is time. Let them stay in their safe room for at least a few days before giving them access to the rest of the house.

Don’t rush the process! If your cat is eating, drinking, and using the litter tray, don’t worry if they still seem a little shy or anxious.

 

Let Your New Cat Make the First Move

Once your cat seems comfortable, try sitting quietly in their room. Let them approach you first rather than forcing interaction.  Avoid reaching out to stroke them—this can feel intimidating. Instead, let them head-bump or rub against you first.

 

Introducing your New Cat to Other Cats

 

If you already have a cat at home, a slow and controlled introduction is essential. Never force them to meet right away!

Step 1: Scent Introduction
Before allowing physical contact, let the cats get used to each other’s scent.

Try scent-swapping by rubbing a soft cloth or sock on one cat and placing it in the other’s space. If either cat hisses or seems uneasy, remove the item and try again later.

Step 2: Visual Introduction
Once the cats are comfortable with each other’s scent, allow them to see each other without physical contact.

– Use a glass door, baby gate, or a cracked-open door
– Give them treats and toys while they see each other to create positive associations
– If either cat shows signs of stress (hissing, growling), take a break and try again later

Step 3: Controlled Face-to-Face Meeting
When both cats seem at ease, let them interact in short, supervised sessions.

– Keep initial meetings short and positive
– Provide treats and toys to keep things relaxed
– If either cat becomes agitated, separate them and try again later

Tip: Some cats may take days or weeks to accept each other, so be patient!

 

For more detailed guidance, visit Cats Protection’s official advice on introducing a second cat:
https://www.cats.org.uk/welwynhatfield/news/how-to-introduce-a-second-cat

Important: If your cats show signs of extreme stress or aggression, consult your vet for guidance.

 

About My Three Cats

This guide was created by My Three Cats, specialists in cat behaviour and care. While we aim to provide helpful tips, we do not offer medical advice. If your cat experiences behavioural issues, please contact a vet or feline behaviourist.