Adding a new furry family member is an exciting, rewarding experience. But bringing home a cat rescue can be particularly special and satisfying. While adopting a rescue cat comes with challenges, it’s important to remember that you are giving your new pet a second chance at life. Here is everything you need to know about bringing home a rescue cat: supplies, how to cat-proof your home, and how to help your cat adjust to the transition stress.

What Supplies Does a Rescue Cat Need?

When you first get a cat, you will need basic cat supplies like food and water dishes, litter and a litter box, scratching posts, toys, and treats or snacks. You will also need a collar with their name, your identification, and identifying important vaccination information. Each cat has their preferences, so you may want to refrain from buying food in bulk until you are sure your new cat will eat it.

Just like cats have their own food preferences, they also have their toy preferences. You may want to get an array of different toys – such as a toy on a string, felt toys with catnip, and even a laser pointer. Kicker toys can also be very enriching, especially for kittens just learning how to play fight. With these options, you can see which toys the cat is most drawn to and keep more around the house.

Once your new cat is done playing, it’s time for a cat nap. A blanket or cat bed that is designated for them can provide them with a safe and comfortable place to get some rest. If you would like, you can also get a cat tree, so they can not only play on it but rest well in an elevated spot.

You’ll want to keep grooming and caring for your new rescue cat’s paws and skin in mind. Brushing them with a wire brush for cats can help your cat maintain a healthy coat. There are also topical CBD ointments for cats that will reduce any external or paw irritation. This product can also help provide relief from pesky bug bites, pollen allergies, and even dry snow-covered feet. Let your rescue cat enjoy their active lifestyle with our easy-to-apply solution designed for sensitive skin!

In some situations, rescue cats may have had a rough time before they were rescued, or they may be a senior cat.

This CBD for cats provides the perfect solution for supporting your rescue cat’s daily activity. Everything from helping ease joint stiffness after a long walk to promoting strong bones, this oil covers it all! Forget about added stress – administering couldn’t be simpler; place the dropper in your pet’s mouth and watch them reap its full benefits.

For cats that are more skittish and stressed, try Feline Stress Releaf CBD for cats.

How To Cat-Proof Your Home

After you officially have your rescue cat, you’ll want to cat-proof your home. There are some things to bear in mind, and taking small steps ahead can ultimately save you and your cat from frustration.

Start by cat-proofing any exposed cords or wires – these are often tempting playthings for cats that could be potentially dangerous. It is also important to secure windows, install secure screens, and get into the habit of closing your windows when not in use – cats can easily climb out and wander off without proper security measures.

Next, pet-proof any potential hiding spots that offer too much privacy – cats love secluded, dark places. As you get to know your new cat and their personality, it’s important to make sure they are easily visible. This way, you can ensure they aren’t getting into trouble, making a mess, or disturbing guests when they arrive.

Last but not least, if you’ve got plants around, look up to see if they are safe or toxic for cats. Plants are tempting for cats to chew on, and the soil is tempting to dig in. While keeping plants out of the cat’s reach is helpful for when you are home and supervising them, it’s important to ensure none of your plants are toxic in case your new furry friend finds a way to the plant while you are running errands.

How To Know If A Rescue Cat vs. Breeder Cat Is Right For You

Whether you choose a cat from a breeder or a shelter depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for when adding a new family member. When you get a new cat from a breeder, you know exactly where the cat came from, their parents, and can have a good idea of the cat’s behavior. In contrast, with rescue cats, there is usually less known as far as their behavior goes, but this can be part of the fun!

Rescue cats are often older and have experienced some trauma, so it may take some time to get to know your new friend. Rescuing an animal provides them with much-needed love. It gives them another shot at finding their forever home, which is why many prefer rescuing animals over buying from breeders whenever possible. When it comes to price, rescues cater to various price ranges depending on the care fees applied.

With a breeder cat, you will have a better idea of what temperament the cat will have. These cats tend to be younger, with fewer unknowns in their histories. Cats from breeders will likely be well-socialized and healthy since reputable cat breeders prioritize these two factors. They may also come with paperwork about their parents and health clearances. Depending on the breeder, getting a cat from a breeder can be more expensive than one from a rescue.

When choosing between the two, consider the lifestyle you have now. Are you looking for an energetic young cat or a more mellow older character? Do you live alone, or do you have other pets or children your new furry friend will cohabitate with? It is also important to consider your budget when choosing where to get your new pet.  Knowing yourself and your needs is key in determining if a rescue cat vs. a breeder cat is right for you.

How To Help Your Cat Adjust To The Stress Of Transition

It’s essential to give your rescue cat time to adjust when bringing them into their new environment. Once they arrive, create one specific room in the house just for them. This room will be where their food bowls and litter box should remain untouched for several weeks. This way, they have a chance to feel comfortable enough with their surroundings before they explore other parts of the house. It’s also important to talk calmly around them (as loud noises can often scare cats) while allowing plenty of time each day for cuddles. These interactions will not only help build trust between the two of you but also helps relieve any stress they may be feeling due to transitioning into a whole new environment!

When cats feel stressed, you might notice an increase in unusual behaviors. Things like excessive licking or hiding can signal that your rescue cat is overwhelmed and needs a little extra TLC! Your feline friend may also become more distant from their loved ones or start having trouble with litter box issues. It’s essential to look out for these stress signals, so they have the support they need when times get tough!

If you need additional resources, you can try Stress Releaf Calming CBD Oil if you need extra help reducing stress for your new rescue cat. This easily administered Hemp Oil will help keep your rescue cat calm as they adjust to new surroundings. Not only that, but it also helps to boost brain function and manage behavioral problems while providing contentment during separation and travel. And the best part? The relaxed yet alert state they’ll feel won’t leave them exhausted.

Wrapping Up

Adopting any pet should never be taken lightly as there are many responsibilities involved in caring for another living creature who depends entirely on us humans for all its needs; however, rescuing an animal comes with its unique rewards that can bring much joy to our lives! By understanding how to best help your new furry friend adjust to their new home, you can ensure that they have everything required for a safe and happy transition into their forever home!