Helping an Adult Cat Settle Into a New Home

Adopting an adult cat is a deeply rewarding experience. While kittens often steal the spotlight, adult cats make wonderful companions — affectionate, calm, and full of personality. They may just need a little extra time to settle in.
 

Give Them Time

Adult cats do adapt well to new homes, but they don’t always settle as quickly as kittens. A settling-in period is completely normal.

Try to see things from your cat’s point of view. Moving house is stressful for humans — and even more so for cats. Your new companion may have been uprooted from the only home they’ve ever known, or may have experienced significant change before arriving with you.

Many adult cats come from shelters or rescue environments. From their perspective, life may have been overwhelming for some time. They may have lived in multiple homes, been separated from kittens, or experienced loss and uncertainty. Patience and understanding are key.
 

The Journey Home Matters

The settling process begins with the trip home. Many cats are not used to car travel and can find it frightening.

• Always use a secure cat carrier

• Allow your cat to hear the car running before driving off

• Drive calmly and smoothly

A secure carrier helps your cat feel safe and contained during this first big change.
 

Creating a Calm First Environment

Once home, keep things quiet and low-key. While it’s exciting to welcome a new family member, a calm environment helps your cat feel secure.

Start by confining your cat to one quiet room. This allows them to adjust to new smells and sounds without becoming overwhelmed. This is especially important if you have other pets. Over the following days, gradually allow your cat access to the rest of the home.
 

Setting Up a Purr-fect Welcome

Prepare your cat’s room in advance with:

• A litter tray and fresh water (available at all times)

• Food and litter placed well apart

• A cosy, comfortable bed

• Toys and a scratching or climbing post

If possible, continue feeding the same food your cat was eating previously. Sudden diet changes can cause stress and tummy upsets. If you wish to change food, do so gradually over time.
 

Families, Children & Other Pets

If there are children in the household, explain the importance of gentle handling and giving the cat space. Young children should always be supervised.

Introductions to other pets should be slow and controlled, allowing your new cat to adjust at their own pace.
 

Keeping Your Cat Safe

Cats should not be allowed to roam outdoors. For their safety and the protection of wildlife, we require cats to be kept indoors only, with access to a secure catio or fully enclosed outdoor area.
 

We strongly recommend the use of Catnets which you can order through Enchanted Pets in Kilmore or similar professional cat-proofing systems to create safe outdoor enrichment without the risks associated with free roaming.
 

When first adopted, cats must be kept indoors while they settle in and learn that this is their new home. This settling-in period is essential for building trust, reducing stress, and preventing escape attempts.
 

Providing a secure, enriched indoor environment — with climbing spaces, windows, and safe outdoor enclosures — allows cats to live happy, fulfilled lives while remaining protected.
 

Hiding Is Normal

Don’t be discouraged if your new cat hides — under the bed, in a wardrobe, or in a quiet corner. This is very normal behaviour. As trust builds, confidence will follow.

Often, all that’s needed is time, patience, and plenty of tender loving care.