Tag: First Batch Update

By Courtney Elliott

Santi Nuñez / Stocksy

Whether you just brought your new dog home or are about to sign the adoption papers, knowing what to expect at your dog’s first vet visit is crucial to establishing a good healthcare routine. You can prepare for your dog’s first vet visit by scheduling early, gathering their health history and a list of questions, using a comfortable carrier, and avoiding a large meal beforehand. You’ll also need to be prepared to communicate openly about concerns and provide accurate information about their health and behavior. Here’s what you can do to come to your pup’s first appointment prepared.

When to take your new dog to the vet

Regular vet check-ups contribute to a lifetime of wellbeing for your dog, and it all starts with the first visit. You should take your dog to the vet soon after adoption, ideally within a few days of bringing them home. This initial visit allows the vet to conduct a thorough examination, assess vaccinations, and discuss a tailored health plan. It’s also the perfect time to address any questions or concerns you may have about your new companion.

What can I expect when first visiting the vet?

When you and your new dog go to that first vet visit, expect a warm welcome from the veterinary team, who will likely start with a comprehensive health check-up. They’ll discuss vaccinations, preventative care, and your pet’s specific needs.

Don’t be shy — vets are there not just for your pet’s health, but also to ease any worries or curiosities you might have as a pet parent. Your dog’s first vet appointment is a fantastic opportunity to ask questions, share your pet’s history, and gather valuable insights on diet, behavior, and future healthcare plans. To make sure you’re fully prepared, follow this puppy’s first vet visit checklist to keep yourself organized.

1. Scheduling the appointment

The first thing you need to do is get an appointment on the calendar. For some practices, it can take months to get an appointment, while others have immediate openings. So, if you’re considering adopting a dog, you should do this when filling out your adoption application before you even bring your rescue dog home — this will ensure you get your preferred date and time. Vet appointments can typically be done online or by phone.

2. Preparing for the visit

Before you leave for your visit, make sure your pup hasn’t had a big meal — it’s best to wait a few hours after feeding. A crate or carrier can be a safe and effective way to transport a newly adopted dog to the vet, otherwise, make sure they’re safely strapped in with a dog seatbelt during the ride there. And make sure they’re properly leashed and wearing a collar with an ID tag.

3. What to bring to a vet visit

Other than your dog, of course, there are a few things you should bring with you to your dog’s first vet visit.

• Medical records: Any existing medical records or vaccination history will be incredibly helpful for the vet to have on hand.
• Existing medications: If your pup is on any medication or supplements, bring those along for a medication check.
• Comfort item: Don’t forget their favorite toy from their foster or a comforting blanket — familiar items can provide a sense of security during the visit.
• All your questions: Arm yourself with any questions or concerns you might have.

4. During the visit

Each vet appointment starts with a veterinary technician weighing your dog on the scale. The vet tech will then ask you some preliminary questions about your dog’s health and history to ensure your pet’s medical record is up-to-date.

The veterinarian will then come in and examine your pup from nose to tail, checking ears, teeth, and everything in between. If your dog has any existing conditions or concerns, this is the moment to share them. It’s also the perfect time to discuss preventive care, such as flea and tick protection, parasite prevention, and dental health. And if vaccinations are on the agenda, a vet tech may return to assist in providing the immunizations.

5. Follow-up and care

After your dog’s first appointment, your vet will likely share any necessary follow-ups and devise a schedule for future care. This could include upcoming vaccinations, dental check-ups, or preventive treatments based on your dog’s individual needs. They might discuss dietary recommendations or address any concerns that surfaced during the initial visit. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your vet with any questions or observations between visits.

Are there any specific questions I should ask the vet?

Before heading to the vet, you might wonder, “What should I ask the vet during the visit?” This is a great question, and many pet parents find it helpful to write down specific questions prior to the appointment. Here’s a list of helpful questions to get the gears turning:

• What food should I feed my dog?
• Is my dog up to date on all vaccinations?
• How much exercise should I give my dog daily?
• Should I spay or neuter my pet? If so, when?
• What preventative medication should my dog be on?
• Does my dog have any current conditions?
• What’s the best way to reach you if I have a question or concern?
• Where should I take my dog during an emergency?

What is the cost of a dog’s first vet visit?

The cost of the first vet visit for a puppy or dog ranges from $50 to $500 or more, depending on your location, the specific services your vet says are necessary for your dog’s wellbeing, and any additional procedures or tests recommended during the appointment. Some veterinary practices may offer package deals for initial check-ups and vaccinations.

It’s also worth exploring pet insurance options to help offset potential future medical expenses. While vet care is an investment in your dog’s wellbeing, it’s wise to inquire about fees and potential additional costs during the appointment. Ultimately, it’s important to plan and budget ahead of time to make sure you can cover the cost of vet visits for your dog.

Why is it important to have a good relationship with your dog’s vet?

Having a good relationship with your dog’s vet is paramount for several reasons. First, it fosters strong communication, enabling you to discuss any concerns or observations about your dog’s health openly. This collaboration ensures your vet has a comprehensive understanding of your pet’s history, facilitating more accurate diagnoses and tailored treatment plans.

A strong bond with your vet also creates a positive experience for your dog during visits, minimizing stress and anxiety. It also establishes trust, allowing you to rely on your vet for guidance on preventive care, nutrition, and overall health. Ultimately, a good relationship with your dog’s vet is the foundation for proactive and personalized healthcare, contributing to a long, happy, and healthy life for your pup.

FAQs (People also ask):

How long does the first vet appointment take?

The first vet appointment ranges from 30 to 60 minutes. This time allows the vet to conduct a thorough examination, discuss your dog’s medical history, and address any questions or concerns you may have. It’s a comprehensive session aimed at understanding your dog’s health and setting the groundwork for future care.

What if my dog is nervous or scared at the vet?

If your dog is nervous or scared at the vet, it’s not uncommon. Vets and their staff are experienced in handling anxious pets and will employ gentle techniques to make the experience as stress-free as possible. Bringing familiar items, such as a favorite toy or blanket, can offer comfort, and positive reinforcement, such as treats or praise, helps create a positive association with vet visits over time.

How often should I schedule vet check-ups?

Regular vet check-ups are crucial for your dog’s health. In general, scheduling an annual check-up is recommended for most dogs. However, for puppies, seniors, or those with specific health concerns, more frequent visits may be necessary. Your vet will provide guidance based on your dog’s individual needs, ensuring they receive the appropriate preventive care and attention throughout their life.

Courtney Elliott, a proud Cleveland native living in Manhattan, blends her decade of writing and editing expertise with her unshakable devotion as a pet parent to her French Bulldog, Gus. When she’s not at her desk, you’ll find her frolicking in Central Park or engrossed in a good book at a local coffee shop.

A step-by-step guide on how to adopt a cat — from where to begin looking to what the adoption process entails to how to prepare your home for your new pet.

By Tim Barribeau

Adopting a cat, especially if they’re your first, can feel like a terrifying jump into an ocean of the unknown. How do you adopt a cat? How do I choose a cat? What do I need to have at home? What does the application process look like? What if they hate me? As overwhelming as these questions can feel, most of them can be dealt with by taking a deep breath, doing some prep, and working your way through our step-by-step breakdown of the whole process.

Haven’t adopted yet? Use the Find a Cat search to see adoptable cats and kittens near you. If you don’t see your perfect match, sign up for Pet Alerts so new matching kitties will be emailed to you daily.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Adopt a Cat

1. Determine what sort of cat are you able to adopt.

Quite possibly the most important part of the whole adoption process is establishing what sort of cat you want, and are able to, adopt. Are you looking for a young kitten? How about a fully grown cat? A senior? Are you able to adopt a cat with special needs who otherwise might not find a home? Are you able to adopt more than one cat at a time? Many are bonded with another cat, and even if not, will be far happier living in a situation with another cat. You never know who you’re going to meet at a shelter and fall in love with — so keep your mind open!

2. Browse local cat adoption listings.

Nose around for what cats and kittens are available in your neck of the woods. Adopt-a-Pet lets you search through tens of thousands of listings around the country and allows you to specify by breed, age, sex, and color — plus, if you don’t see the perfect match right away, you can set up an alert to let you know as soon as one matching your parameters is listed. Adopt-a-Pet works with shelters, rescues, and private individuals looking to find homes for cats — but also spend some time searching for local rescue and adoption organizations on the off chance they’re not listed on Adopt-a-Pet.

3. Arrange a visit.

How people adopt cats has changed in recent years. Covid has meant that many places can no longer allow you to just show up at their door and spend time with all the animals looking for a perfect match — but with a bit of foresight, you can still drown in a pile of kittens. Many rescue organizations and cat cafés allow you to book a time to meet their adoptable cats to find out how well they mesh with you. For as cute as a kitten seems on an online listing, sometimes it’s just not the same in person — and you might fall in love with a critter that you never expected.

4. Fill out all the paperwork.

Every adoption organization has its own paperwork requirements and fees, so before you can take the pet home you’ll need to fill it in and file it. These can vary hugely in how long and intensive they are. They’ll often ask questions about you and your household — the ages of people there, if there are any other pets, does anyone smoke, etc. Some may ask you what you’re looking for in a pet, and others may ask you to describe what sort of space you have set up for the animal (see more on that below). Most will require you to agree to registering your pet’s microchips, keeping up their medical care, and more. All of this is with the aim of making sure that the cat goes to a suitable and loving home that can meet all of their needs.

5. Buy important supplies.

Once you know for sure you’re going down the pet adoption road, make sure to stock up on all the important items you need to have at home before your cat moves in. You’ll need cat litter and a litter box — one sized for the age of your cat. A kitten will need a small litter box with low edges to climb in and out of (you can often buy disposable ones for this first stage of life), and as cats get old and can’t jump as well, you’ll want an easy entry point into the litter box. For adult cats, the rule of thumb is that a litter box should be 1.5x as long as the pet themself.

Beyond litter and a litter box, you’ll need food (again, as appropriate for the age of your potential pet), enrichment toys, a scratcher, treats, a brush, nail clippers, and somewhere comfy for them to cuddle up — though many of those can come with time.

6. Set aside a safe, dedicated space for your pet.

When you first introduce a cat to your home, chances are they’ll be anxious and scared. The best first step to making sure they’re happy is to give them a dedicated small space they can make their own and feel safe — ideally a small bathroom or guest room, if you have the space. You can put their basic supplies in there and try leaving some dirty clothes of yours in the room too, so they can get used to your scent. This gives them a place where they can explore and feel safe until they’re ready for the rest of your home — keep your eye out for a probing paw being stuck under a door as a sign that they want to see more.

7. Do a safety check around the house.

If you’ve never had a cat before, you might not be thinking of what things around the house are potentially dangerous to a new pet. While people may not think of cats as chewers the way that dogs are, they’re still pretty handy at nomming on plants and power cables. For the former, double check that your houseplants are cat safe — the ASPCA maintains a really great tool for finding this out. Some are so dangerous that even having them in the same rooms as your cat can be risky, and others might only slightly irritate their mouth if they chew on the leaves directly, so read up on what the risks are.

Cats are also especially at danger in the presence of essential oils, so be extremely careful using any of those anywhere a pet might end up.

Look around for potential places your future cat could hide or escape through. Dilara Göksel Parry, Certified Cat Behavior Consultant at Feline Minds and Cat Town Oakland’s Program Manager reminded us that cats can get through window screens. She recommends looking around your space from a cat’s point of view: “I tell people to look at their home from a cat’s perspective, low and high, to see where cats can get into that you haven’t thought about. That’s partially because they go hide in these places when they’re scared, often in the first days after adoption, and then the adopters can’t find them. They think that they’ve gotten out somehow — but they go behind your washer/dryer.”

8. Arrange any follow-up requirements.

Once you’re okayed for the adoption, you may need to plan some future requirements for your new pet. Chances are they’ll be microchipped, so you’ll need to register your cat ownership with one of the many microchip registries. Depending on your location, you may also be required to register your ownership (and potentially pay a pet license) with your city or county. You’ll want to schedule a first vet visit in the not too distant future, and the adoption agency themselves may want to organize a follow-up in a few months, just to see how things are going.

9. Bring your pet home.

Whew, you did it! You got all of the pieces together, got approved, and now you’re bringing a tiny fuzzy gremlin into your house who you’re going to love to pieces. If you’ve followed these instructions on how to adopt a cat, you should be more than ready, even if they do decide that their favorite activity is biting your big toe as hard as they can with their tiny razor kitten teeth.

Photo: Sam Lion / Pexels

Magui RF / Shutterstock
Bringing a new cat into your home should not be as simple as picking the first adorable kitten you find. If you want to be a pet parent to one of the two million cats adopted from animal shelters each year, you should first think about whether you’re able to commit to the responsibility of caring for a cat, financially and emotionally. If you are, do your research to find the right cat for your family, home, and lifestyle. Read on to learn about what to consider when looking for the best adoptable cat for you.

What factors should I consider when choosing a cat?

Every cat is different, so it’s important to think about what you’re looking for in a cat before scouring online adoption listings. Below are just a few factors to consider.

• Age: A playful kitten will require more supervision, while an adult shelter cat may work better for a busier lifestyle or a home with children.
• Personality: If you want a cat with a certain temperament, you’re better off choosing an adult cat, as kittens’ personalities are hard to determine. Decide if you want a cuddly and quiet lap cat or an active feline who will keep you busy.
• Activity level: A more energetic cat will need frequent playtime and exercise, but if you have a busy schedule, you may want to choose a calmer companion who doesn’t mind spending time alone.
• Temperament: Homes with children should consider relaxed, easy-going cats. If you have a quieter home, a shyer feline may be a good fit.
• Breed: Many cats in shelters are mixed breeds, but if their breed is known, that information may help give you some idea of their overall temperament.
• Coat type: Long-haired cats are a little more high-maintenance, requiring frequent brushing to avoid matting. If you don’t want to constantly groom your cat, pick a short-haired feline.
• Health: Most cats in a shelter will likely have a clean bill of health, but be sure to ask the staff any questions about a cat’s specific needs or health history.
• What if I have other pets at home? If you have other cats or dogs at home, make sure to choose a cat who has interacted with these animals before. Be prepared to introduce your new cat to your current pets slowly and carefully.

How can I ensure the cat’s health and medical history are in good condition?

The animal shelter or rescue staff knows their pets well and can tell you all about a cat’s medical history and current health. When you adopt a cat, the shelter will provide you with their full medical records so you know which vaccinations your pet still needs and any prior health issues they may have. Make sure to schedule an appointment with your vet ASAP after taking your cat home to establish care and schedule their next vaccinations.

How can I determine a cat’s personality in a shelter or rescue setting?

Before you choose a cat, you should take time to get to know any cat you’re interested in. Fortunately, many shelters and rescues have rooms where you can spend time with cats to narrow down your choices from all those sweet faces. Follow these tips to learn more about picking the right cat for you, even in a shelter setting.

• Spend time with the cats: Visit with all adoptable cats to see which ones capture your attention. Notice how each cat responds to you, and if there is a particular cat that steals your heart, see if the shelter has space for you to spend one-on-one time together. Make sure you know how to pick a cat up before attempting to do so.
• Ask questions about the cats’ personalities and histories: Some cats get a little timid when new people come in, but the shelter staff can tell you how they act when they’re most comfortable and answer your questions about a cat’s background.
• Follow your gut instinct: You may know which cat is right for you just by feeling a special connection. Pay attention to and trust your instincts.

What if the cat’s behavior presents challenges after adoption?

How a cat acts in a shelter interaction may be different from how they act when you finally bring them home. Remember that every adult cat in a rescue or shelter has a history and may take some time to feel comfortable. Use these tips to ensure that your cat has the best opportunity to become a happy, healthy, and loving pet:

• Be patient: Know that it could take your cat weeks or even months to adapt to their new home and life.
• Create a safe space for your cat: Set up a room in your home that is solely the cat’s space until both you and your cat are ready for them to explore the rest of the house.
• Spend time with your cat: Your cat will tell you when they want to be petted with a gentle nudge of the head. Let them set the pace for your interactions and spend time with them while still respecting their space.
• Consider professional help: If your cat’s behavior is too challenging to handle on your own, think about consulting a cat behavioral specialist. You can also reach out to the shelter to ask for guidance.

How can I ensure a successful long-term relationship with my new cat?

The best way to create a positive relationship with your new cat is to start off right. Let your cat lead the way when it comes to interactions like petting and snuggling. Pay attention to their body language and cues and make sure to meet all their needs, such as feeding your cat a high-quality and healthy diet, keeping their litter box clean, and providing plenty of toys and playtime for mental and physical stimulation.

Take time to think about what you want in a cat and how your pet will best fit into your home and family. Then, when you’re ready to adopt, you can keep an eye out for a cat that will feel comfortable in your household. And with patience, time, and, of course, love, you can help your new pet feel at home and enjoy the benefits of cats as pets for years to come.

References

Adopters and Pet Selection Preferences in Five Animal Shelters in the United States

Adopting a Shelter Cat: What You Need to Know

RSPCA: Adopting a Cat or Kitten

What to Look for When Adopting a Cat

Choosing the Right Cat Breed for Your Personality

Humane Society of Grand Bahama Choosing the Right Cat

Choosing and Caring for Your New Cat

By Savannah Admire

Heng Yu / Stocksy
Choosing to bring a cat into your home may seem simple, but it requires some budgeting and preparation. After all, cats can live over 17 years, so you’re looking at a long-term commitment. Fortunately, most pet parents (82 percent) say that pet spending brings them the most gratification of any of their monthly expenses. If you’re ready to join the ranks of cat parents, we’ve put together a guide on the cost of cat parenthood to help you prepare your budget (and yourself).

How much does it cost to adopt a cat?

Adopting a cat from your local shelter or rescue can cost anywhere from $100 to $500, depending on your location and the organization’s fees. Fortunately, many adoption fees include spaying or neutering, up-to-date vaccines, and even microchipping, which can save you money on initial cat parenthood costs.

One-time cat adoption costs

When you decide to adopt a cat, there are a lot of pet costs associated with purchasing supplies, adoption fees, and first vet visits. Below, we break down the range for each of these items, so you can get a better idea of how to budget for your new pet.

• Adoption fee – $100 to $500
• Vaccinations – $200 to $500
• Spay/neuter surgery – $100 to $800
• Microchip – $25 to $75, $50 on average
• Initial supplies – $300 to $800:
  • Bed – $25 to $100
  • Scratching post – $20 to $135
  • Nail clippers – $5 to $30
  • Collar – $10 to $50
  • Toys – $5 to $30
  • Food and water bowls – $5 to $50
  • Carrying crate – $40
  • Litter box – $25

If you adopt a kitten, expect to make several visits to the vet during their first six months of life because kittens require multiple vaccinations to protect them from disease. You should also factor in the cost of getting a cat spayed, which can be pricey, so consider local spay and neuter clinics that offer the service at a lower cost.

What factors contribute to the cost of having a cat or dog?

Taking care of a cat involves a number of expenses, the biggest of which are medical care and food; cat parents should plan on investing in a healthy diet that meets their cat’s nutritional needs, and annual check-ups and vaccinations with a veterinarian. Cats also need litter, toys, and scratching posts. Unlike dogs, cats groom themselves and often don’t need regular grooming, but you may still want to invest in occasional grooming from a professional, especially with long-haired cats.

The table below breaks down what you can expect to spend on each item annually, so you can build a more comprehensive pet budget.

What are the typical costs for basic supplies?

Before you bring your new cat home, you’ll need to invest in some basic supplies to make sure they’re comfortable and entertained. Costs of pet spending can vary widely, depending on the brand and which products you choose to buy. For cats, figure on spending at least $100 on basic pet supplies, including:

• Collar
• Pet ID tag
• Microchip
• Cat bed
• Bowls
• Toys
• Food
• Scratching posts
• Carrying crate

How can I estimate the annual cost of having a cat?

Your first year of having a cat may cost anywhere from $750 to $2,675. As with any pet, first-year costs are higher because you have to purchase all the supplies you need to keep your cat happy and healthy.

The average cost of a cat per year is $1,149, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) —but the amount you spend will depend on your cat’s age, health, and where you live. The annual essentials your cat needs, like food and cat litter, can cost anywhere from $325 to $1,600 each year. You may also want to purchase non-essentials, as many pet parents do, like fun toys and accessories, which can run anywhere from $1,100 to $3,600 per year.

To determine a budget for your new cat, add up the average cost of the items you need and err on the more expensive side to give yourself a bit of a buffer. Plan on spending at least $200 to $500 each year on your cat, including food.

Kittens are more expensive because they typically need a series of vet visits for vaccinations, more toys, larger collars as they grow, and training. They also tend to be the ones that claw up your couch cushions! The dollar ranges below also include food and average annual vet care costs:

• $300 – Adult indoor-only cat (one to 10 years old)
• $400 – Kitten (under one year old)
• $500 – Senior indoor-only cat (10+ years)
• $500 – Any age cat that goes outdoors

Are there any unexpected or emergency expenses I should be prepared for?

While you can certainly budget for the standard monthly expenses of cat parenthood, like food and litter, there will always be unexpected expenses. If your cat becomes sick or injured, you may have to take them to an after-hours emergency veterinarian, which can easily cost $1,000 to $5,000 for a single visit. Setting aside some money in savings for unplanned expenses like the ones below can help save your budget.

• Emergency vet care
• Long-term illness
• Extensive behavior training
• Boarding or pet sitting if you travel
• Destruction of valuable items (carpets, furniture, houseplants)

If you rent your home or apartment, you may also need to budget for a pet deposit, which can be anywhere from $150 to $500 annually.

How to build a cat emergency fund

One of the best ways to prepare for unexpected expenses as a cat parent is to establish an emergency fund. Choose an amount of money to budget each month to add to a savings account. Then, when you have emergency expenses, like visiting an emergency vet or boarding for an unexpected trip, you can pull money from that account and avoid stressing about a big bill.

Why is pet insurance important?

As an alternative or in addition to an emergency fund, you can also invest in pet insurance, which can help you handle unexpected and emergency medical situations, such as injury or illness. Pet insurance policies are most affordable when your cat is young and healthy, so the sooner you can sign up, the better. Make sure to get several quotes to find a policy that works best for you and your budget.

Is there a significant difference in expenses between having a cat and a dog?

Cats tend to have longer lifespans than dogs, meaning you’ll be paying for your feline friend for longer than a dog. However, cats are still generally lower-cost overall for various reasons, such as their smaller size (cats eat less food than dogs).

When comparing the cost of a cat compared to a dog, it’s important to consider the different types of expenses each pet will require. And before you rush out to adopt that adorable cat you saw online, take a moment to consider your budget and ask yourself, “Can I afford a cat?”

FAQs (People Also Ask):

How much does it cost to have a cat per month?

The average cost of having a cat per month is around $80 on average.

What is the true cost of having a cat?

The initial costs of adopting a cat can range from $750 to $3,020, while annual costs in the following years can be anywhere from $325 to $1,600.

What are the biggest expenses of having a cat?

Vet care and food are the biggest expenses of cat parenthood.

Is it less expensive to have a cat or dog?

Cats tend to be more affordable than dogs because they’re smaller and lower-maintenance.

What are the typical costs for basic supplies?

The costs of basic cat supplies vary widely based on location and brand, but the general range is $300 to $800.

Are there recurring expenses such as food, grooming, and veterinary check-ups?

Your cat may not need regular grooming, but annual veterinary check-ups and a balanced diet are essential to their well-being.

Are there additional costs to consider, such as pet insurance or pet sitting services?

Investing in pet insurance can help you handle unexpected medical costs. If you travel, you can pay to board your cat in a kennel or hire a professional pet sitter.

Are there any unexpected or emergency expenses I should be prepared for?

The biggest unexpected expense of pet parenthood is emergency vet care, which can be costly.

References

USAToday: What is the Cost of Owning a Cat

Cat Ownership Cost

CNBC: How Much it Costs to Own a Pet

Real Cost of Owning a Dog or Cat

Pet Spending Dogs and Cats Survey

How Much Does Your Pet Cost You Per Year

CitzensBank: Cost of Owning Dog or Cat

Savannah Admire is a writer, editor, and pet parent to two dogs and a cat. When she’s not writing, you can find her reading, playing Animal Crossing, or being an obnoxious nerd about her favorite movies and TV shows. She lives in Maryland, where she constantly debates whether or not to get a third dog.

By Savannah Admire

Ana Luz Crespi / Stocksy
If you’re a cat lover, you know it can take some time for a new cat to feel comfortable around you. While every cat has their own personality, even well-socialized cats may hesitate to approach an unfamiliar person. If you’re planning to adopt a new feline friend, learn how to approach a cat for the first time and how to get a cat to come to you, to encourage trust and — eventually — affection.

How to prepare to visit a cat in a shelter

Cats tend to keep their guard up when meeting someone new and are very perceptive of your actions. Before you visit a cat in a shelter or rescue, take the time to learn how cats communicate their feelings and moods, as well as how to make friends with a cat.

How can I create a positive environment for the cat’s first meeting?

To start your first meeting off on the right foot, maintain friendly body language and avoid staring, as much as you may want to look at that adorable face. Cats will pay close attention to your movements to determine if you’re safe to approach.

You should also pay attention to the cat’s physical cues. Study the cat’s body language and look for positive signs like purring, slow tail waves, and a lowered head, all of which can indicate that the cat is comfortable with you. Signs like rapid head movements or staring may indicate overstimulation, while a tense body, hiding, and ears flattened to the head can indicate a frightened cat, letting you know that you should keep your distance and be patient.

How should I approach a cat during our first meeting?

When you first approach a new cat, you should do so on their level — literally. Standing can be intimidating, so kneel or sit on the floor, making yourself smaller and closer to the cat’s size. This will make you appear less threatening and give the cat a chance to study you and approach you on their own terms.

Once the cat comes closer, offer your hand for them to sniff. Don’t force the cat to touch you or make any sudden movements that could startle the cat. You may even have to sit very still and pretend to ignore the cat by looking at your phone or talking to someone else in the room. When the cat does approach you, you can hold out a loosely closed fist for the cat to smell so they can become better acquainted with you.

Make sure to speak softly and calmly. Cats are sensitive to loud noises and are more likely to approach you if they sense that you’re calm and safe. Give the cat space to come to you in their own time, and don’t try to pet the cat if they don’t want to be touched.

Above all, meeting a new cat for the first time requires an abundant amount of patience. You have to be willing to wait for the cat to approach you and give them space until they do.

Should I try to pet a cat immediately?

Never try to pet a cat before they ask you to. Cats will let you know when they want attention by giving you a light nudge with their head. This may come in the form of a gentle head bump, or they may rub against you with the side of their face or chin.

When a cat nudges you, let them sniff your hand, and if they nudge you again, feel free to reach out and pet them. For the first interaction, only pet the cat lightly on the head and avoid any other spots on their body.

Can I use treats to help the cat warm up to me?

Treats can be a good way to encourage a new cat to develop positive associations with being around you. A little snack can also help coax a more timid cat to approach you. Just make sure not to feed the cat from your hand, but instead, set a treat or two on the floor nearby so the cat can investigate and approach without having to come in direct contact if they’re not ready. This is also an effective tactic if you’re wondering how to approach a stray cat without scaring them.

Tricks for getting a cat to like you

The best way to encourage a cat to warm up to you is to allow them to approach you. Cats like to call the shots, and you can respect that desire by keeping your distance and only petting the cat when they give the okay, as well as knowing where not to touch a cat. You can also use treats and try playing with them; wand toys are also great for first encounters because they allow the cat to play without coming too close to an unfamiliar person. While a little playtime may not be the answer to how to make a cat love you instantly, it’s certainly a good start.

1. Use a calm, soft voice
2. Maintain relaxed body language
3. Avoid loud noises and sudden movements
4. Play with them from a distance
5. Encourage them with treats

What if the cat seems fearful or skittish?

Many cats may seem a little fearful or even skittish at a first meeting, so be patient and don’t force the cat to interact with you, as this will only make them more frightened. Instead, give the cat plenty of space, allowing them to hide if they want or explore the room. They may even slowly draw closer to you simply out of curiosity. Maintain your calm and non-threatening posture by sitting on the ground and greet the cat in a soft voice to help soothe them.

What not to do when you first meet a cat

When you meet a cat for the first time, it can be tempting to scoop them up in your arms and give them kisses. But this behavior is guaranteed to frighten the cat and can even result in scratches or cause damage to the future relationship you were hoping to have. Instead, make sure to avoid these behaviors as you’re learning how to get a cat to like you:

• Never stare at the cat. Cats can see staring as threatening or intimidating. Instead, offer an encouraging slow blink to show the cat you trust them.
• Avoid making any sudden movements, which can startle the cat and cause them to run away and hide.
• Never pick up a cat if they’re not comfortable with it. Being picked up can make a cat feel trapped and scared, and many cats don’t like being held at all.
• Know where to touch a cat and where not to pet a cat. Avoid full-body petting and keep your first pets around the cat’s head and chin.
• Don’t force the cat to interact with you if they’re not interested because this will only make them feel more stressed. Instead, give them space to approach you in their own time and on their terms.

By taking the time to understand a cat’s signs and how they communicate through their body language, you can ensure that your first interaction with a new cat goes as smoothly as possible. By starting off on the right foot (paw?) with your new feline friend, you can begin to develop a loving relationship that can last for years to come.

FAQs (People Also Ask):

How should I approach a cat during our first meeting?

Be patient, avoid making any sudden movements or loud noises, and let the cat come to you on their own.

Should I try to pet the cat immediately?

Never try to pet a cat until they ask you to with a nudge or head bump.

What if the cat seems fearful or skittish?

If the cat seems fearful, keep your distance and “ignore” the cat to allow them to grow used to your presence.

Can I use treats to help the cat warm up to me?

Treats can help coax a hesitant cat out of their shell and develop positive feelings about being around you.

Should I try to play with the cat during the first meeting?

If the cat seems willing to play, use a wand toy that allows them to interact with you while still keeping their distance.

How can I create a positive environment for the cat’s first meeting?

Offer the cat treats and toys to play with, but give them space to explore and warm up to you in their own time.

References

Maddie’s Fund: Cat Handling Handbook

Austin Pets Alive: Guide to Socializing Cats

Helping a Fearful Cat in New Home

Science-Backed Tips for Getting a Cat to Like You

How to Take Care of Your Cat

Savannah Admire is a writer, editor, and pet parent to two dogs and a cat. When she’s not writing, you can find her reading, playing Animal Crossing, or being an obnoxious nerd about her favorite movies and TV shows. She lives in Maryland, where she constantly debates whether or not to get a third dog.

Presented in partnership with Nationwide Pet Insurance.

Bringing home a new kitten is a lot like bringing home a baby: You want to prepare for the unexpected and plan as best you can. But some things are outside of even the savviest adopter’s control, and your new little fluff ball’s playful and curious energy may land you in your vet’s office more often than you’d like. So, what can you expect?

Nationwide pet insurance looked at real-life member claims to see which health issues in cats under the age of five years topped the list every year. Check them out below:

• Eye infection
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• Diarrhea
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