Adopt / Bringing them home

Bringing your cat home

The first week sets the tone for the rest of your cat's life with you. Here's how to make it smooth, for them and for you.

Before they arrive

Set up a safe room

One quiet room with food, water, litter, a hiding spot, and a few toys. Bedroom, bathroom, or small office all work great. Close the door at first.

Cat-proof the room

Tuck away cords, remove toxic plants (lilies are deadly), secure window screens, hide small swallowable items.

Supply checklist
  • Litter box + scoop + litter
  • Food and water bowls
  • Scratching post or pad
  • Carrier (for the ride home and future vet trips)
  • A blanket or bed
Keep food consistent

We send you home with a few days of their current food. If you want to switch, do it gradually over a week to avoid tummy upset.

First week timeline

  1. Day 1

    Open the carrier in the safe room, sit quietly nearby, let them come out on their own time. Don't force interaction. Many cats hide for 24 to 48 hours; that's normal.

  2. Days 2 to 4

    Visit often but quietly. Read, work, scroll your phone in their room. Talk softly. Let them approach you. Offer treats from your hand once they're curious.

  3. Days 5 to 7

    Open the door and let them explore the rest of the house at their own pace. Keep the safe room set up as a retreat for at least 2 more weeks.

Introducing other pets

Swap scents first

Rub a soft cloth on each animal, then place it where the other can sniff. Repeat over several days until reactions are calm.

Visual then physical

Use a baby gate or cracked door for visual intros, then short supervised face to face meetings. Keep first meetings under 10 minutes.

Resident dog

Dog on leash and calm, cat with an escape route. Reward calm behavior. Never leave them alone together until you fully trust both.

Resident cat

Plan for 2 to 4 weeks of gradual intros. Most cats accept newcomers eventually if introductions go slowly.

First vet visit

Establish a relationship with a local vet within 30 days. Bring the vet records we sent home with you so they can start a chart. We're happy to recommend a vet near you.

Questions or concerns?

Text us anytime. Behavior, food, vet questions — we've been through it all and we love hearing how your cat is settling in.