First 3 Days – Finding Safety
Your cat will likely hide, explore at night, and be unsure of their surroundings.
Expect:
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Hiding under furniture or in small spaces.
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Hesitation to eat or use the litter box at first.
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Avoiding touch or eye contact.
💡 Tip:
Set up one quiet room with their food, litter, and a safe hiding spot with the cat litter on one end and the food and water and hiding spot on the other. Let them approach you on their terms.
First 3 Weeks – Building Confidence
They start to explore more and become familiar with household sounds and routines.
Expect:
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Shorter hiding times.
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Curiosity about you and the environment.
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Tentative play or affection.
💡 Tip:
Keep routine feeding times, speak softly, and avoid loud visitors or changes.
First 3 Months – Settling & Bonding
Your cat begins to truly relax, showing personality and forming attachment.
Expect:
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Regular play and affection.
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Comfort exploring the whole home.
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Signs of trust — like sleeping near you or grooming in your presence.
💡 Tip:
Keep enriching their environment with scratching posts, window perches, and playtime.
