Cats are often nervous in their new homes

Tigger's happy now in his forever home.

Rescue cats will often be nervous at first when arriving at their new homes. Some will stay in their carriers, some will hide immediately and some will be friendly at first, perhaps even explore, then  hide.

All of this is completely normal and nothing to worry about. ​Tigger, who was known as a confident kitten, hid for 2 months.
​His owner says: "You just need to be patient."

​If possible, keep your cat in one room at first to allow it to get used to its new space. Spend time in there, talking quietly so the cat can get used to your voice. If the cat approaches you it may be hard not to show your excitement - but it’s crucial to stay quiet and calm. 

The most important thing is to give your new cat space, peace and as much time as he or she needs. 
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Odile
Odile was 5 months old when she went to her first foster home, having arrived at GAAS after being attacked by a dog.

She spent her first 48 hours wedged behind a bedroom cupboard. Her carer, C, covered the carpet in newspaper and moved her litter tray and bowls into the same room.

C gave her time alone to get used to her new home, and also spent time sitting in the bedroom, not looking towards her guest’s hiding place, just talking or reading quietly. Odile looked out occasionally but C didn't react.

On the second day, when C brought her dinner, Odile came up to her and purred. She was still tense but she allowed C to give her a stroke.

The next day Odile felt confident enough to leave the room and gradually she became more and more settled. 

​A few months later Odile went to her forever home, with a family with a young daughter. She arrived in the late evening and explored the house overnight.

J, the father, said: ‘It’s quite good actually bringing her back at this time: she can check the place out in peace and quiet and then get to know the full family feeling a bit more sure of herself.’

Odile hid for the next 24 hours and then felt ready to meet everyone. She’s now a playful and loving lap cat. 

After 2 days, Odile came out for a stroke.

Odile, comfortable in her new home.

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Teddy
When 4-year-old Teddy went to his new home, he spent his first night hiding in the bathroom and the next day moved to lurking behind an airer where he felt safe and could watch everyone. His owners, V and B, left treats nearby and talked gently to him. ​As he began to feel more comfortable, Teddy gave them slow blinks and leaned forward when V offered him her hand. 

From there, while Teddy still liked to hide sometimes, he also came to V and B more and more for fusses and eventually took to snuggling with them on the sofa. He's even been known to sit on V's lap.

Teddy hid in several places, including behind an airer.

Teddy is happy and settled in his forever home.