Getting a new cat is a happy and sometimes overwhelming thing to do. The first 48 hours after adoption are very important. They will affect how comfortable your cat feels, how quickly they bond with you, and how well they adjust to their new home. In this guide, which will be around for a long time, we’ll show you what to expect in those first two days, how to help your new cat make a smooth transition, and how to start building a trusting relationship with them.
The Importance of the First 48 Hours
When you adopt a cat, you take them away from their home, which is usually a shelter, foster home, or previous home. Even the calmest cats can get stressed out by a sudden change. Experts say that the first few days at home have a big effect on how quickly and easily a cat will adjust.
How you act in those first few hours can change:
- The cat’s willingness to eat, drink, and use the bathroom.
- How quickly they feel safe and at home in their new home.
- The basis for trust and bonding between you and your cat.
Because of this, it’s important to set aside time and effort ahead of time. You can help your new friend get used to things by being patient and understanding. This will help you start building the foundation for a long-lasting, comfortable relationship.
Before You Bring Your Cat Home: Here’s What to Do
Make a “Safe Room” or Sanctuary
Make a quiet, controlled space for your cat to adjust to its new home before you bring it home. This is often called a “safe room.” It should be a closed-off room, like a spare bedroom or quiet bathroom, where your cat can start to get used to things without feeling overwhelmed.
In that room, be sure to give:
- Water and food bowls (in one corner)
- A clean litter box in a separate, private space, away from the food
- A warm bed, blanket, or soft nest
- A scratching post, either vertical or horizontal, and at least one new scratching option that other cats haven’t used before
- A few toys or things to play with, interactive like wand toys, soft toys, or puzzle toys
- Hideaways: a cardboard box, a covered cat bed, or draped fabric as a place for the cat to hide if it feels scared
You can also give your cat a piece of clothing or a blanket that smells like you. This will help your cat connect the new place with something familiar, which can help lower stress.
Make sure the room is also “cat-proof” by locking windows or balconies, hiding or blocking dangerous areas, and closing off any escape routes.
What to Look Forward to in the First Hours
Getting There and What Happens First
When you first get your cat home:
- Put the carrier right in the safe room. Sit quietly nearby, open the door, and let your cat come out when they’re ready. Don’t push them out or chase them.
- Some cats may immediately start exploring, while others may run under furniture or into a hiding place and stay there for hours. Both reactions are normal.
- Speak softly and calmly, move slowly, and avoid loud noises or sudden movements. Let them watch you, but don’t try to hold or pet them right away.
- Many cats hide at first because that’s how they deal with stress. Don’t worry as long as they can get to water (and food if possible).
Eating, Drinking, and Using the Litter Box
- Some cats may not eat or drink for the first few hours or even the first 24 hours because they are in a strange place.
- Give them food and water right away. Clean water is very important.
- Put a clean litter box in a quiet corner away from food and water. Many cats will need time to find it and feel safe using it.
- If your cat doesn’t eat for 24 to 48 hours, try offering something more enticing, like wet food or canned tuna/salmon, depending on their diet and health.
- If your cat hasn’t eaten or drunk anything after 48 hours or is acting strangely, call your vet. Not eating for a long time can be harmful.
Hiding, Watching, and Signs of Stress
When a cat first arrives, it’s normal for it to:
- Hide, crouch, have dilated pupils, flattened ears, or a low/twitching tail
- Avoid interaction with people
- Refuse to eat or use the litter box
- Experience mild digestive problems (like loose stools due to stress)
In the first few hours, the best thing you can do is stay calm, patient, and predictable. Give your cat time to get used to their surroundings.
Getting Through the Next 24 Hours (End of Day 1 to Start of Day 2)
Gentle Touch and Bonding
Once your cat seems calmer (peeking out, sniffing, or using the litter box), you can start gentle, low-pressure interaction:
- Sit quietly in the same room (reading or talking softly) to let the cat observe you
- Provide toys or scratch posts for interactive play, which can reduce stress
- Use soft, slow blinks to show the cat you’re friendly and not a threat
- Let the cat come to you; don’t force affection
Start Making a Routine
Setting up a regular, gentle routine early helps your cat feel at home:
- Feed at the same times every day (even small meals)
- Refresh water frequently
- Clean the litter box regularly
- Set aside time for play and quiet time at about the same times daily
If changing food, do it gradually by mixing small amounts of new food with old over several days. Sudden changes can upset your cat’s stomach.
What to Do in the First 48 Hours: Common Situations
| Situation | What to Do / Expect |
|---|---|
| Cat hides and doesn’t eat or drink much | Normal on the first day. Offer food/water and hiding spots; wait quietly. |
| Cat uses litter box quickly and seems curious | Positive sign. Keep interacting gently. |
| Cat won’t use litter box or has accidents | Stress may be the cause. Ensure litter box is in a quiet, private space. Clean gently and retry. |
| Cat is scared, ears flat, crouching, hiding | Take it slow. No forced contact or play. Provide quiet space. |
| Cat starts exploring and sniffing | Good sign. Let them explore at their own pace. Provide toys and playtime if comfortable. |
The Importance of Scent, Territory, and Familiarity
Cats are territorial and rely on scent. A new home can feel unsafe without familiar smells. Support your cat by:
- Bringing a blanket, towel, or clothing with familiar scent and placing it in the safe room
- Providing vertical spaces like cat trees, shelves, and window perches
- Using calming pheromone diffusers or sprays, if available
Giving your cat a small, safe territory lowers stress and helps them feel in control.
Start With Patience and Respect to Bond With Your Cat
- Give your cat space and freedom initially; let them approach you
- Respect their limits; don’t chase, grab, or demand affection
- Offer toys only when the cat seems calm and interested
- Speak softly and blink slowly to communicate trust
- Let them observe your routine without pressure
Bonding takes time and may require days or weeks for the cat to fully show its personality.
Health Check and Vet Visit
- Schedule a vet visit soon, ideally within the first week
- Monitor for signs of illness: sneezing, runny eyes/nose, lethargy, refusal to eat/drink
- Keep your vet’s contact information handy; seek advice promptly if problems persist
Building a Simple Routine From Day Two
Start a routine to help your cat feel safe and develop predictability:
- Feeding & Water: Fresh water and small meals at the same times daily
- Litter Box: Keep clean, check often, ensure accessibility and privacy
- Quiet Observation: Spend time in the safe room without forcing interaction
- Play & Enrichment: Only when the cat is interested and calm
- Rest & Hide Areas: Leave bedding or hiding spaces; don’t force socialization
- Gradual Exploration: Slowly introduce the rest of the house once comfortable
This helps your cat learn your home is safe and fosters trust and bonding.
Why Some Cats Take Longer and How to Be Patient
Not all cats will act “normal” after 48 hours. Factors affecting adjustment include:
- Age: Kittens may adapt faster than older cats, but some can be shy
- Previous life experiences: Shelter cats, strays, or multi-animal homes may take longer to trust
- Personality: Some cats are naturally shy or independent, while others are social and brave
Adjust your approach to each cat’s personality and comfort level.
Things You Should Not Do
- Introduce the whole house immediately; start with a safe room
- Force interaction too soon; chasing or grabbing can scare a cat
- Change food suddenly; transition gradually
- Neglect vertical or hidden spaces; cats need these for security
- Ignore signs of stress or illness; consult your vet if needed
Long-Term Mindset: The First 48 Hours Are Only the Start
The first 48 hours are crucial but just the beginning. Long-term commitment, patience, and respect for your cat’s personality ensure successful adoption.
- Establishing safety, routine, and gentle bonding now builds trust and companionship
- Gradually introduce play, exploration, and other pets (if any)
- Full adjustment may take weeks or months, depending on the cat
Last Thoughts
Adopting a cat is rewarding but comes with responsibility. The first two days shape your cat’s sense of safety, trust, and happiness in their new home.
- Prepare a safe room with food, water, litter, hiding spaces, and toys
- Give your cat time, space, and gentle kindness
- Begin building strong bonds with patience and observation
Your life together begins with calm, steady patience, respect, and love — not rush or expectation.
