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When a cat comes home for the first time, it can be a very stressful time. They usually come from a place they know well and are suddenly thrown into a world that smells strange, looks huge and can be very scary. For your cat's first few days in a new home, it's best to keep things simple in the beginning.
Cat comfort at home
In general, it is important to offer your cat the following comforts so that it feels much happier and safer in its own home:
Access to a garden β This comes in various forms, but it is important that your cat has control over it. Cat flaps are ideal in this situation and can greatly improve their behavior so they don't feel trapped when they really want to be in their own territory. The territory should extend beyond the walls of your home and may even extend into several neighboring gardens. Let the cat decide if and how much it wants to go outside to create a positive environment for everyone (FIV+ cats only stay indoors, but you can do a lot to keep them busy indoors, or give them a fully fenced yard).
The spaces in their home environment where they can retreat and be left alone. These areas can be hiding places under tables, in cozy cat beds and even in elevated places.
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