When you first bring your new cat or kitten home, it’s best to continue feeding them the cat food they’re already used to.  

If you want to change to a different cat food, do this gradually. A sudden change in food could cause an upset stomach. 

Introduce the new food by mixing increasing amounts of the new food into the old food over a period of a week or more. Gradually reduce the amount of the old food during this process, so that your cat is getting the correct amount of food each day. 

Feeding your cat.

Like humans, cats need privacy when they toilet. Place a tray in a quiet area, away from any windows or doors and away from any food or water bowls. 

Make sure there is plenty of space around the tray to ensure they can get in and out easily and have space to dig if they wish. Make sure the tray is accessible at all times. 

Cats and toileting.

At first, it’s best to use the cat litter that your cat is already used to. This will help them become familiar with their new litter tray.  

If you need to change the type of cat litter they use, do this gradually. Gradually mix a small amount of the new litter into the old, increasing the proportion over at least a week. 

Alternatively, if they have more than one litter tray, offer the new litter in one tray while keeping their usual litter in the other. Your cat may make their preference obvious. 

The best litter for your cat.

Scratching posts are essential for helping cats with their claw maintenance and help cats mark their territory with the scent glands on their paws. They also help to prevent them from scratching your furnishings. 

If your cat does scratch the furniture or carpets, cover up any damage and place a scratching post near where they like to scratch, so they have a convenient alternative. 

Scratching.

Whether your cat has a fancy shop-bought bed or a blanketed cardboard box, it needs to be placed in a quiet, private area where they won’t be disturbed. 

Cats like to rotate their sleeping areas, so make sure there are plenty of bed options for them to choose from.  

Cats and sleep. 

Cats like to hide away when they're feeling scared or stressed. 

Cardboard boxes are ideal for making homemade forts, and cats also like to perch up high to survey their surroundings, as it helps them feel safe. 

They'll appreciate access to high shelves or climbing trees, and putting a bed up high for them, if possible. Just make sure they can get up and down safely and easily. 

Cats hiding. 

Most cats are good at grooming themselves, but some may need a bit of help.  

Short-haired cats can be brushed once a week. Once settled into their new home, long-haired cats will need daily brushing to prevent matted fur. 

Even if your cat only has short fur, you might find you need to brush them twice a week during the spring and autumn when they shed their fur the most. 

Grooming your cat. 

Play is important for cats as it keeps them mentally and physically active, keeps boredom at bay, and provides an outlet for their natural hunting behaviour. It’s also a great way to bond with your cat and have some fun!

There are lots of different cat toys you can buy, or you can make your own. Remember to never leave your cat on their own with toys which could be shredded and eaten, or ones that they could get tangled in. 

Cats and play.

The first thing you'll need for transporting your new cat home safely is a sturdy cat carrier. 

There’s a wide range on the market, but sturdy wire or plastic ones are the best. They should be strong, lightweight, secure and easy to clean. 

The size of the carrier needs to be large enough for your cat to lie down comfortably and adjust their position. 

Top openers are easier to lower your cat into from above, but front loaders that can have the top section removed are generally better for training your cat to use them. 

Ventilation is also important, so they can breathe comfortably and avoid overheating. 

Choosing and using a cat carrier.