How To Calm A Scared Cat In New Home

Bringing a new cat into your home can be an exciting time, but it can also be a stressful time for your feline friend. Cats are known for being skittish creatures, and moving to a new environment can be overwhelming for them. If you notice that your new cat is scared or anxious, it’s important to take steps to help them feel more comfortable in their new home.

There are several techniques you can try to calm a scared cat in a new home. From creating a safe space for them to providing plenty of hiding spots, these tips can help your new furry friend feel more at ease in their new surroundings.

1. Create a Safe Space

When bringing a new cat into your home, it’s important to create a safe space where they can feel secure. This can be a quiet room with their litter box, food, water, and a cozy bed. Make sure to provide plenty of hiding spots, such as cardboard boxes or cat tunnels, where your cat can retreat to if they feel overwhelmed.

A professional cat behaviorist recommends, “Creating a safe space for your cat is crucial in helping them adjust to their new environment. Make sure to provide them with all the essentials they need, along with plenty of hiding spots where they can feel secure.”

2. Use Pheromone Diffusers

Pheromone diffusers, such as Feliway, can help calm a scared cat in a new home. These diffusers release synthetic pheromones that mimic those produced by mother cats to help their kittens feel safe and secure. Simply plug in the diffuser in the room where your cat spends the most time to help them feel more relaxed.

A professional veterinarian recommends, “Pheromone diffusers can be a great tool in helping scared cats adjust to their new surroundings. The synthetic pheromones can help create a sense of familiarity and comfort for your cat.”

3. Play Soft Music

Soft music can have a calming effect on cats, so consider playing some soothing tunes in the background to help your scared cat relax. Classical music or specially designed cat music can help create a peaceful atmosphere in your home.

A professional animal behaviorist suggests, “Playing soft music can help create a calming environment for your cat. Try playing classical music or specially designed cat music to help soothe their nerves.”

4. Give Them Time to Adjust

It’s important to give your new cat time to adjust to their new home. Be patient and allow them to explore their surroundings at their own pace. Avoid overwhelming them with too much attention or noise, and let them come to you when they feel ready.

A professional cat trainer advises, “Patience is key when helping a scared cat adjust to a new home. Give them time to explore and settle in, and avoid forcing them to interact with you if they’re not ready.”

5. Use Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement can help build trust and confidence in your scared cat. Use treats, toys, and gentle praise to reward positive behaviors and help your cat feel more comfortable in their new environment.

A professional animal behavior consultant recommends, “Using positive reinforcement can help build a strong bond with your scared cat. Rewarding them for good behavior with treats and praise can help boost their confidence and trust in you.”

6. Provide Vertical Space

Cats feel safer when they have access to vertical space, so consider providing cat trees, shelves, or tall furniture where your cat can perch and observe their surroundings. This can help your scared cat feel more in control of their environment.

A professional feline behavior specialist advises, “Providing vertical space for your cat can help them feel more secure in their new home. Having high perches where they can observe their surroundings can give them a sense of control and safety.”

7. Consult with a Professional

If your cat continues to be scared or anxious in their new home, consider consulting with a professional cat behaviorist or veterinarian. They can provide tailored advice and strategies to help your cat feel more comfortable and confident in their new environment.

A professional animal psychologist suggests, “If your cat is struggling to adjust to their new home, don’t hesitate to seek help from a professional. A cat behaviorist or veterinarian can provide valuable insights and guidance to help your cat feel more at ease.”

Common Concerns and Answers:

1. My new cat won’t come out of hiding. What should I do?

– Give your cat time to adjust and provide plenty of hiding spots where they can feel safe.

2. My new cat is hissing and growling at me. How can I calm them down?

– Avoid approaching your cat too quickly and give them space to come to you on their own terms.

3. My new cat is not eating. Is this normal?

– It’s common for cats to have a decreased appetite when they’re stressed. Give them time and try offering their favorite foods.

4. My new cat is scratching furniture. How can I stop this behavior?

– Provide scratching posts and toys to redirect your cat’s scratching behavior away from furniture.

5. My new cat is meowing excessively. What could be causing this?

– Excessive meowing can be a sign of stress or anxiety. Try to identify the trigger and provide comfort to your cat.

6. My new cat is not using the litter box. What should I do?

– Ensure the litter box is clean and easily accessible for your cat. If the issue persists, consult with a veterinarian.

7. My new cat is not grooming themselves. Is this a cause for concern?

– Cats may neglect grooming when they’re stressed. Provide a calm environment and monitor their grooming habits.

8. My new cat is hiding under the bed all day. Should I be worried?

– Cats may hide when they’re scared or overwhelmed. Give your cat time to adjust and provide them with a safe space.

9. My new cat is showing signs of aggression towards my other pets. How can I address this behavior?

– Introduce your pets slowly and monitor their interactions. Provide separate spaces for each pet if needed.

10. My new cat is not sleeping well. What can I do to help them relax?

– Create a calm and comfortable sleeping area for your cat, and establish a bedtime routine to help them relax.

11. My new cat is not playing or interacting with me. How can I bond with them?

– Allow your cat to approach you on their own terms and use toys and treats to encourage play and interaction.

12. My new cat is constantly hiding in dark corners. Should I try to coax them out?

– Avoid forcing your cat out of hiding. Allow them to come out on their own and provide a safe space for them to retreat to.

13. My new cat is pacing and restless. What could be causing this behavior?

– Restlessness can be a sign of stress or anxiety. Provide a calm environment and engage your cat in play to help them relax.

14. My new cat is excessively grooming themselves. Could this be a sign of anxiety?

– Excessive grooming can be a coping mechanism for stress. Monitor your cat’s grooming habits and provide comfort and reassurance.

15. My new cat is not using the scratching post. How can I encourage them to use it?

– Place the scratching post near areas where your cat likes to scratch and use catnip to attract them to the post.

In conclusion, bringing a new cat into your home can be a rewarding experience, but it’s important to help them feel calm and comfortable in their new environment. By creating a safe space, using pheromone diffusers, playing soft music, and giving them time to adjust, you can help your scared cat feel more at ease. Remember to consult with a professional if your cat continues to exhibit signs of stress or anxiety. With patience and understanding, you can help your new furry friend settle into their new home and build a strong bond with them.