How long do adopted cats take to adjust?

We’re often asked, how long does it take for a rescue cat to adjust to a new home and family? It depends on your cat’s personality. With that said, you should see your kitty growing more comfortable around you within a week or two.

When to adopt a cat from a shelter?

Give her time to adjust. Your cat may have been happy & relaxed in the shelter or their foster home, but since then, they may have been examined by a vet, put in a cat carrier, taken a car trip, and now are in a total alien universe filled with strange sights, sounds and smells. Every cat is different, just like every home is different.

How long does it take for a cat to adjust to a new home?

It may take your cat a week or two to adjust. Be patient. Within a week of being adopted, take your newly adopted cat for her first wellness visit with a veterinarian.

Where do I put my new cat when I bring her home?

If you’re following the tip on in our Bringing Your New Cat Home article, kitty is in her starter room. That should be a safe place for her to take her time to get adjusted to how your house sounds & smells. Wait to introduce her to friends, family, and other household pets until she’s out from under the bed.

When is it safe to let my new cat out?

It can take a day, 5 days, a couple of weeks or more for your new cat to relax. 2 weeks is an average adjustment time for most cats. As long as your cat is eating, drinking, using the litter box (even if its under the bed!) and not showing any signs of illness, it is generally safe to leave them in their hiding spot.

Give her time to adjust. Your cat may have been happy & relaxed in the shelter or their foster home, but since then, they may have been examined by a vet, put in a cat carrier, taken a car trip, and now are in a total alien universe filled with strange sights, sounds and smells. Every cat is different, just like every home is different.

If you’re following the tip on in our Bringing Your New Cat Home article, kitty is in her starter room. That should be a safe place for her to take her time to get adjusted to how your house sounds & smells. Wait to introduce her to friends, family, and other household pets until she’s out from under the bed.

It may take your cat a week or two to adjust. Be patient. Within a week of being adopted, take your newly adopted cat for her first wellness visit with a veterinarian.

It can take a day, 5 days, a couple of weeks or more for your new cat to relax. 2 weeks is an average adjustment time for most cats. As long as your cat is eating, drinking, using the litter box (even if its under the bed!) and not showing any signs of illness, it is generally safe to leave them in their hiding spot.