Environment
Remember that cats need to feel safe and secure when introduced to a new environment. Provide areas where they can escape to and feel safe, especially if you have other pets.
There are also treatments available that can help to make your cat feel more at ease in a new household.
Toileting
Cats often toilet train quickly, so providing a litter tray with appropriate cat litter in an environment where your cat can toilet safely and in peace is important.
In multiple cat households we often recommend multiple litter trays so that more than one option is available for your cat to toilet. Giving different options should help reduce toileting stress.
Please be aware that there can be clinical issues that can cause inappropriate toileting, which should be discussed with a vet or veterinary nurse.
Diet
Provide your cat with a good quality cat diet. Many diets are split into “life stages” such as kitten, adult and mature cat foods. Two to three meals daily is suitable for most cats.
Ad lib feeding is possible although weight has to be carefully monitored. If you are unsure about feeding options for your new cat, speak to a veterinary nurse (our nursing team provide free of charge regular weight checks).
Handling
Be gentle when handling your new cat or kitten.
Although it is good to get your pet used to being held, stroked and picked up, remember that when cats will let you know if they don’t want to be handled!
Give them space when required.
A good tip is to handle them when they come to you rather than go searching them out. Cats do like their space too.
Vaccination
Make sure your cat’s vaccinations are up to date. This will keep them happy, healthy and protected against preventable diseases.
Kittens should have their first vaccination between 8-9 weeks of age, followed up by their second vaccine 3-4 weeks later.
Neutering
It is well known that neutering (spay or castrate) cats will help reduce straying. Reduced interactions with other cats also helps reduce risk of injury, infection or unwanted pregnancy.
Got questions about neutering? Read our FAQs.
Register Your Cat or Kitten With A Vet
Don’t forget to register your new fur baby with a vet. We offer a FREE new pet check for new pet owners with our nurses, who offer a nose to tail check to ensure they are in tip-top condition.
