First Week With a New Cat

The first week is about patience, not perfection. Your new cat needs time to decompress and acclimate to their new environment.

What to Expect

• Days 1–2: Hiding, minimal eating, quiet observation. This is normal
• Days 3–4: Tentative exploration, more eating, possibly approaching you
• Days 5–7: Growing confidence, establishing routines, exploring more

Key Rules

• Start in one room (the “base camp” approach)
• Don’t force interaction
• Keep other pets separated initially
• Maintain a consistent routine
• Speak softly and move slowly

Some cats adjust in days, others in weeks. If yours is particularly anxious, see our Cat Anxiety guide. Return to the New Cat Owner Guide.