New Cat Owner FAQs

Clear Answers to the Most Common Questions During the First Month

Bringing a new cat home often raises dozens of questions, especially during the first few weeks. Even experienced pet owners can feel uncertain when routines change, behaviors seem unfamiliar, or progress feels slow. This page answers the most common questions new cat owners ask during the first month and explains what is normal, what requires patience, and when to seek help.

These answers are designed to reduce anxiety, prevent common mistakes, and help you build a calm, confident relationship with your new cat.

How Long Does It Take a New Cat to Adjust?

Most cats need anywhere from a few days to several weeks to feel comfortable in a new home.
Adjustment time depends on personality, past experiences, and how the transition is handled.

Some cats explore immediately, while others hide for days. Both responses are normal.
Progress should be measured in small improvements, such as eating regularly, using the litter box, or showing curiosity, rather than immediate affection.

Is It Normal for a New Cat to Hide?

Yes. Hiding is one of the most common behaviors during the first days or weeks. Cats hide to feel safe while they assess their new environment.

Hiding is considered normal as long as the cat is:
• Eating and drinking
• Using the litter box
• Gradually becoming more curious

Provide hiding spots rather than trying to block them. Covered beds or quiet corners help cats decompress.
Soft, enclosed beds can be useful during this phase, such as the

Amazon Basics Cat Cave Bed.

Why Is My New Cat Not Eating Much?

Temporary appetite changes are common during the first 24 to 48 hours. Stress, unfamiliar smells, and environmental changes can reduce appetite.

Encourage eating by:
• Feeding the same food the cat had previously
• Offering meals in a quiet room
• Warming wet food slightly to increase aroma
• Avoiding constant food changes

If your cat refuses food for more than 48 hours, consult a veterinarian.

How Often Should I Feed My New Cat?

Most adult cats do best with two scheduled meals per day. Scheduled feeding allows you to monitor appetite and create a predictable routine.

Avoid free-feeding during the adjustment period, especially in multi-pet homes.
Automatic feeders can help maintain consistency once your cat is settled.
The PetSafe Healthy Pet Simply Feed Automatic Feeder supports portion control and reliable timing.

Is It Normal for My Cat to Meow at Night?

Nighttime vocalization is common during the first few weeks. Cats may vocalize due to stress, loneliness, hunger, or a disrupted sleep cycle.

To reduce nighttime meowing:
• Keep feeding and play routines consistent
• Provide interactive play before bedtime
• Avoid responding to attention-seeking meows

Nighttime vocalization usually decreases as your cat settles.

When Should I Let My Cat
Explore the Whole House?

Your cat should begin in a safe room before being allowed access to the full home.
Once your cat shows confidence, such as eating regularly and exploring the room, you can gradually expand their territory.

Open one additional room at a time. Avoid overwhelming your cat with too much space too quickly.

How Soon Should I Take My Cat to the Vet?

Most veterinarians recommend a first exam within 7 to 14 days after adoption.
Earlier visits may be needed for kittens or cats with unknown medical histories.

Early exams establish a health baseline and protect other pets in the home.

What Litter Box Problems Are Normal at First?

Temporary litter box hesitation can occur due to stress or unfamiliar placement.
However, consistent avoidance is not normal and should be addressed promptly.

Ensure:
• The box is in a quiet location
• The litter type is familiar
• The box is cleaned daily

Large, uncovered boxes often work best during transitions.

Options like the IRIS USA Large Open Top Litter Box reduce confinement stress.

Is It Okay to Pick Up a New Cat?

Handling should be minimal until your cat initiates contact. Some cats enjoy being held, while others do not.

Let your cat approach first. Gentle petting along the cheeks or chin is usually better tolerated than full-body handling.

How Do I Know If My Cat Is Stressed?

Common stress signals include:
• Hiding for long periods
• Flattened ears
• Excessive grooming
• Reduced appetite
• Avoidance of interaction

Stress often decreases with routine and predictability.

Pheromone diffusers such as

Feliway Classic

can help reduce environmental stress.

When Can I Introduce My Cat to Other Pets?

Introductions should be slow and structured. Most cats need at least one to two weeks before face-to-face contact with other animals.

Always start with scent introductions and short, supervised interactions.

Why Does My Cat Suddenly Zoom Around the House?

Sudden bursts of energy, often called zoomies, are normal and usually occur in the evening.
They are a way for cats to release pent-up energy. Regular interactive play helps reduce excessive zooming.

Why Does My cat get the Zoomies?

Should I Give Treats During the First Month?

Treats should be limited until your cat is eating regular meals reliably.
Treats can be useful for bonding but should not replace balanced nutrition.

Single-ingredient or freeze-dried treats are easiest to digest.

What Behaviors Are Not Normal?

Contact a veterinarian or behavior professional if you observe:
• Refusal to eat for more than 48 hours
• Repeated vomiting or diarrhea
• Aggression that escalates
• Litter box avoidance that persists

Early intervention prevents long-term issues.

How Can I Help My Cat Bond With Me?

Bonding happens naturally through consistency and respect.
Sit quietly, speak softly, maintain routines, and allow your cat to control interactions.

Trust builds faster when cats feel safe and understood.

How long does it take for a new cat to feel at home?

Most cats adjust within a few weeks, though shy cats may take longer. Progress should be gradual.

Is hiding normal for a new cat?

Yes. Hiding is a common stress response and usually improves as the cat gains confidence.

When should I worry about my cat not eating?

Appetite loss beyond 48 hours should be discussed with a veterinarian.

Should I let my new cat sleep with me right away?

It is best to wait until your cat feels fully comfortable and has explored the home safely.

How soon can I introduce my cat to other pets?

Introductions should begin slowly after an initial adjustment period, usually one to two weeks.