Here’s how to do it right.
1. Kitten-Proof Everything (Seriously, Everything)
Kittens explore with their paws, claws, and teeth. They’ll find that one thing you didn’t think they’d reach,and make it their playground.
Check these off:
- Cords & blind strings: Tape, tie up, or tuck away. Dangling = danger.
- Toxic plants: Lilies, aloe, and pothos are no-gos. Swap them out.
- Small objects: Hair ties, paperclips, rubber bands = choking hazards.
- Breakables: Clear off shelves, kittens love to climb and knock things over.
Pro move: Block off tight hiding spots (behind the fridge, under the couch) where they could get stuck.
2. Set Up a Safe Base Camp
Your kitten’s going to need a cozy “home within a home” to settle into.
Equip it with:
- A warm bed or blanket-lined box
- Food & water bowls (see Point 3 for details)
- A litter box nearby but not next to their food
- Toys they can bat, chase, and wrestle
Place this setup in a low-traffic area. It helps your kitten feel secure while they adjust to their new surroundings.
3. Stock Up on the Right Gear (Skip the Gimmicks)
Forget the glittery cat condos and gimmick gadgets, for now. Get what actually matters:
Essentials and why you need them:
- Food & treats: Stick with what the rescue/shelter used at first. Transition gradually.
- Litter box + litter: One box per cat, plus one extra. Unscented clumping litter is ideal for most.
- Bowls (non-slip, shallow): Whisker fatigue is real, shallow, wide dishes are best.
- Scratching post: Save your couch. Offer vertical and horizontal options.
- Carrier: For vet trips, emergencies, and safe travel.
- Toys (interactive & solo): Keeps them active, curious, and less destructive.
Don’t skimp on the feeding station. Use ceramic or stainless steel bowls, plastic can trap bacteria and cause chin acne (yes, that’s a thing). Put the bowls in a quiet, low-stress area away from the litter box. And while kittens need more frequent meals, free-feeding isn’t always best. Start with 3 to 4 small meals a day and talk to your vet about portioning and timing. A water fountain can also encourage healthy hydration, especially if your kitten’s a picky drinker.
Bonus buy: Nail clippers made for cats. You’ll thank yourself later.
4. Lay Down the House Rules (Yes, Even With Cats)
Cats aren’t “untrainable” they’re just independent. Set expectations early.
- On furniture or off? Be consistent.
- Sleeping on your bed? Decide now, or you’ll be waking up with a tail in your face.
- No-go zones? Use baby gates or closed doors.
- Scratching boundaries? Redirect, don’t scold. Put scratchers where they already scratch.
Every “cute” behavior today becomes a habit tomorrow choose wisely.
5. Schedule a Vet Visit
As soon as possible after adoption, get your kitten checked out. This isn’t just about vaccines, it’s about setting a healthy foundation.
Ask about:
- Parasite prevention
- Spay/neuter timing
- Nutrition for their life stage
- Microchipping
- Flea/tick and deworming plans
Bring a fresh stool sample (gross but helpful) and any records the shelter gave you.
6. Prep for the First Week Like It’s a New Roommate
Your kitten might be shy, bold, wild, or all of the above. Keep things calm and give them space to explore on their terms.
- Give them time to adjust, don’t overwhelm with guests or kids on day one.
- Let them explore one room at a time.
- Offer quiet bonding: gentle petting, play, and being present.
And yes, there will be zoomies at 3am. Welcome to kitten parenthood.
7. Start Gentle Training & Socializing Early
Now’s the time to teach:
- How to use the litter box (usually instinctive, but help if needed)
- What’s okay to scratch or climb
- How to play without biting or clawing you
Use positive reinforcement: treats, praise, and toys. Never yell or use squirt bottles, it damages trust.
Gradually expose them to:
- New people
- Household noises (vacuum, doorbell)
- Handling (touching paws, ears, etc. for future grooming/vet care)
The goal? A confident, well-adjusted cat, not a stressed-out shadow.
8. Mentally Prepare for the Chaos & Cuteness
This little ball of fluff will turn your world upside down, in the best way. But they’ll also challenge your patience, your sleep, and your belongings. That’s normal. Don’t expect perfection, expect progress.
In return, you’ll get a companion who purrs when you walk in the room, curls up in your lap, and gives your home a new heartbeat.
At Pawrpose, we believe pets aren’t just animals, they’re part of your story.
Make your home one they’ll love exploring, napping in, and growing up in.
Cat Adoption Tips: Bringing Home a New Rescue Cat
Adopting a Rescue Cat isn’t just a feel-good move, it’s a commitment. Whether you’re taking in a shy adult or a bouncing kitten, how you set things up at home will shape everything. Here’s exactly what to do to make the transition safe, smooth, and successful, for both of you.
Before Adoption: Prep Your Home
- Set up a safe, enclosed starter room.
A bedroom, bathroom, or quiet office works. Cats need to start small, too much space too soon can overwhelm them. - Get the right litter setup.
Use one litter box per cat, plus one extra. Place it in a quiet, accessible spot, not near food or noisy appliances. - Buy quality essentials ahead of time:
- Covered or open litter box (depending on cat’s preference)
- Unscented clumping litter
- Food and water bowls (no plastic)
- Scratching posts (vertical and horizontal)
- Cozy bed or blankets
- Hiding spots (cardboard boxes work great)
- Toys (wands, balls, kickers)
- Cat-proof your space.
Secure windows, remove toxic plants (like lilies), hide cords, and keep breakables out of reach. - Choose a vet and schedule a checkup.
Even if they’ve been seen by a rescue vet, get your own baseline appointment within the first 2 weeks.
Adoption Day: Keep It Calm
- Use a secure, covered carrier.
Keep it closed and quiet during the ride home. Line it with a towel that smells like the shelter, or one you’ve slept with. - Take them straight to their safe room.
Open the carrier door and walk away. Let them come out on their own. No grabbing or chasing. - Keep lights dim and voices low.
Cats hear everything. Give them time to settle without stimulation. - Don’t introduce the whole house yet.
Let them own one room first. Gradually expand their territory after they’ve gained confidence.
First Few Weeks: Build Safety and Trust
- Follow the cat version of the 3-3-3 rule:
- 3 days to decompress
- 3 weeks to build routine
- 3 months to feel at home
- Let them hide.
It’s not rejection, it’s self-preservation. Respect their space. Don’t pull them out or hover. - Sit quietly in the room daily.
Read, scroll your phone, talk softly. Let them get used to your presence without pressure. - Hand-feed treats to build trust.
Use lickable treats or small bits of food to create positive associations with your hands and voice. - Keep all routines consistent.
Same feeding times, same litter box spot, same daily rhythm. Routine builds confidence.
Socialising & Behaviour Tips
- Let them approach first.
Resist the urge to pet right away. Offer a hand slowly, if they rub or bump it, you’re cleared for pets. - Blink slowly.
Yes, really. A slow blink is cat language for “I trust you.” If they blink back, you’re bonding. - Use vertical space.
Add shelves, window perches, or tall cat trees. High places help Cats Feel safe and in control. - Play every day.
Use wand toys or laser pointers for at least 10–15 minutes. It builds confidence and burns energy. - Watch for overstimulation signs.
If they flick their tail, flatten ears, or tense up during petting, stop before it escalates. - Never punish a cat.
Hissing, scratching, or hiding are communication. Redirect with toys, not yelling or spray bottles.
Common Rescue Cat Issues (and What to Do)
- Won’t eat at first?
Try warming wet food, adding tuna water, or offering it in a quiet room. Stress can kill appetite temporarily. - Peeing outside the box?
Make sure litter boxes are clean, accessible, and in quiet areas. Rule out medical issues if it continues. - Excessive hiding?
Give more hiding spots, not less. Cats come out faster when they feel in control of retreat spaces. - Aggression or swatting?
Give space, avoid over-handling, and learn their signals. Don’t take it personally, it’s fear, not hate. - Sneezing or eye discharge?
Shelter cats often have mild respiratory infections. Monitor symptoms and see your vet if they worsen.
Bonus Tips to Set You Up for Success
- Feed meals, don’t free-feed (if possible).
Scheduled meals help create structure and bonding opportunities. - Keep their microchip info updated.
Make sure your contact info is registered correctly after adoption. - Don’t rush introductions with other pets.
Use scent swapping, barrier greetings, and slow, staged intros. Give it weeks, not days. - Use Feliway diffusers in transition spaces.
These calming pheromones can ease stress during adjustment. - Celebrate progress, even tiny wins.
First meow? First rub on your leg? First time leaving their hidey hole? That’s progress. Notice it. Celebrate it.
Final Tip: Let Your Cat Set the Pace
Cats don’t adjust on your timeline they adjust on theirs. You may want cuddles. They may want to hide in your wardrobe. That’s okay. Trust is earned, not expected.
With time, space, and patience, your rescue cat will show you who they really are. And once they do, you’ll never want to go back.
You’re not just giving them a home. You’re giving them a future. That’s what adoption is all about.
Questions to Ask a Cat Rescue Before Adopting
Adopting a cat is a wonderful way to give an animal a second chance at a loving home. But every cat has its own personality, history, and needs. To make sure the adoption is successful for both you and the cat, it’s important to ask the right questions when visiting a rescue center.
Here are the most important questions to ask a cat rescue before adopting.
1. Background and History of the Cat
- Do you know the cat’s history? (stray, surrendered, rescued from neglect)
- How long has the cat been in the rescue’s care?
- Has the cat lived with other pets or children before?
- Does the cat have any known fears or past trauma?
Understanding a cat’s background can help you anticipate behaviors like shyness, anxiety, or adaptability to new environments.
2. Health and Medical Care
- Has the cat been examined by a vet?
- Is the cat spayed/neutered?
- Are vaccinations up to date?
- Has the cat been tested for FIV/FeLV (feline immunodeficiency virus and leukemia)?
- Does the cat have any ongoing medical conditions or require medication?
Health transparency is essential to ensure you’re prepared for any care responsibilities.
3. Behavior and Temperament
- What is the cat’s temperament like? (independent, affectionate, playful, reserved)
- How does the cat behave around other cats, dogs, or children?
- Is the cat litter-trained?
- Does the cat scratch furniture or have any behavior quirks?
- Does the cat enjoy being held or handled?
Cats have very different personalities, and asking these questions helps you find one that fits your lifestyle.
4. Daily Needs and Lifestyle Fit
- What type of environment does the cat prefer? (quiet household, active family, indoor-only, indoor/outdoor)
- Does the cat have any dietary needs or food preferences?
- Does the Cat have a Favorite Type of Toy or enrichment activity?
- Does the cat have any known stress triggers?
Cats thrive in the right environment knowing this helps you create a smooth transition into your home.
5. Adoption Process and Support
- What is the adoption fee, and what does it include? (vaccinations, microchip, spay/neuter, initial supplies)
- Do you offer a trial adoption or foster-to-adopt option?
- What support is provided after adoption? (behavioral advice, vet referrals)
- What happens if the adoption doesn’t work out?
Reputable rescues prioritize the welfare of the cats and will support adopters with resources and guidance.
6. Rescue’s Practices and Standards
- How do you assess cats before putting them up for adoption?
- Do you match cats with adopters based on lifestyle compatibility?
- How do you ensure cats are socialized and ready for a new home?
Asking these questions ensures you’re adopting from an ethical rescue that puts the cat’s best interests first.
Final Thoughts
Adopting a cat isn’t just about choosing one you like it’s about finding the right match for both your household and the cat’s personality and needs. By asking the right questions, you’ll set yourself up for a smoother transition and a happier bond with your new feline friend.
A thoughtful adoption process leads to a lasting relationship and the beginning of a beautiful new chapter for both you and your cat.
Adopting a cat isn’t just about choosing one you like it’s about creating a bond that lasts a lifetime.
If you’d like support every step of the way, download the Pawrpose App on Google Play or on the App Store to access adoption guides, rescue resources, and pet care tools.
