Exciting times ahead! You are getting ready to raise your first cat.
You are about to embark on a wonderful journey of raising your first cat. Whether you are planning ahead or find yourself chosen by a stray, the adventure of getting your first cat is truly rewarding.
If a stray cat walks into your life and decides to stay, there’s not much to be done except to welcome your new furry friend. Quickly arrange for a vet examination, and set up the basic necessities. Stray cats, especially adults, adapt quickly and may settle in or move on with the same ease.
For those deliberately planning to adopt, understanding how to raise a cat at home is essential. The process requires preparation and patience to make your new pet feel secure and loved during their initial days.
How to get your home ready
Before bringing your new cat home, you’ll need a few essential items:
- Cat Carrier: Safe transportation to their new home.
- Sleeping Area: A cosy basket or box with comfortable bedding.
- Feeding Supplies: Appropriate bowls and initial food supply.
- Litter Tray: Essential for their daily needs, paired ideally with Kittilitt cat litter for natural, sustainable care.
Remember, while essentials like a scratching post and toys can be added later, they are crucial for your cat’s physical and mental stimulation.
Bringing your cat home
Your cat will be bewildered at first by its new surroundings. It’s important they get to know their boundaries and their own special furniture as soon as possible. If you can establish a routine quickly it will work in both your favours. Position its bed in a quiet, dimly-lit, warm corner. If you allow your cat to sleep on a chair or sofa it’s advisable to cover it with a washable blanket for cleanliness and hygiene; cats are creatures of habit and will be quick to adopt one or more favourite sleeping places!
Always ensure that their sleeping area is close to their litter tray. This should be positioned to give the cat privacy and comfort. The feeding place should be the same too. Choose a position that allows the cat to eat its meals undisturbed, and if there is more than one cat – or other pet – provide feeding bowls for each.
A scratching post is beneficial if your cat is confined indoors. Even cats allowed the freedom to roam and claw trees will occasionally try to sharpen their claws on your favourite piece of furniture or carpet. It’s best to keep a scratching post near where they sleep for use on waking.
Settling in and safety
When you first bring your cat home make sure you close all your windows and doors and generally make sure the area is safe. Cats are naturally curious – and sneak about. Make sure they don’t get shut in open fridges, dishwashers or washing machines. And never allow them to jump onto the stove – there may come a time when it’s hot, with a pan of boiling water or oil on it ready to tip over.
Open fires should be guarded – even when it’s not lit. Cats are intrigued by chimneys and often jump up inside. Beware of electric cables – kittens especially – like to chew and bite through things (practising for the great outdoors). They might be electrocuted if they bite through the insulation. It’s best to disconnect all unused appliances and teach your cat that cables are taboo!
During the first few hours of arriving home your cat will want to explore every corner – savouring each new scent with interest. – but often apprehension – so set aside as many hours as you raise your first cat and spend as much time as possible with it. Be ready to amuse them but allow your cat to sleep whenever necessary.
One common sign that your cat is settling in is when it starts to groom itself. Now would be the time to offer it some food. After feeding show them the litter tray.
Cat flaps: Gateway to Exploration
During the coming days and weeks your new cat should become bold and brave – and be interested in the great outdoors. Installing a cat flap allows them to venture out and return safely. It is very easy to train a cat to use one. Fit the flap at the correct height for the cat to step through, not to jump through.
Most flaps operate two ways and have a magnet to close them. To tempt your cat through first – prop the door open and offer the cat a treat. Partly prop the door open and encourage the cat to push it open further with its paw and head. It will soon push the closed door itself.
As you Raise your first cat…
Raising a cat is an enriching experience that forms a lasting bond. Your cat will soon see you as their favourite person, and together, you will enjoy a companionship filled with love and mutual respect.