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On arriving
home, put the carrier in a quiet corner. Open the cat's
carrier and let the cat walk out. Show the cat the litter
box, then quietly sit across the room and be patient. If
the cat wants affection she will come and ask for it. Some
cats crave affection after being confined. Others want to
be left alone, so do not force your attentions on the cat.
This
can be an extremely stressful time for most cats. It is common
for a cat to hide for a few days when entering a new home.
Some cats will begin to explore with no hesitation whatsoever.
Cats usually come out of hiding at night and make short explorations.
If
the cat is allowed to adapt at her own pace, everything will
work out in good time. Some cats will take days, others will
take weeks. The length of time will depend on the cat's temperament
and past experiences.
Don't
be upset if the new cat remains in hiding or does not eat
for several days. This is the cat's normal way of dealing
with stress and adapting to new or frightening situations.
You may want to reach into the hiding place to reassure him
– don't. This only increases his fear and he may try
to protect himself by biting or scratching. He will come out
in his own time.
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