ways to socialize a cat

The socialization of a cat in a new family requires as much patience as love for her. Even an adult cat adopted from an animal shelter can be frightened, withdrawn, or confused in the presence of her new housemates, despite the fact that she is genuinely welcome. Below you will find tips on how to take your time and give your cat enough space to help her get to know her new home and the people living in it.

1. The opportunity to explore the territory.

When adapting a cat to a new home, your task is to look at the situation through her eyes: she is scared, because she was in an unfamiliar place where “giants” (you and your family) live, who constantly strive to catch and cuddle her. This can be unbearable, especially for timid cats. So tell your family members not to get in the way of a new pet exploring your home. It takes time for a cat to learn scents, look around, and eventually identify safe places to sometimes hide. This will allow her to find out which rooms belong to whom, and create her own “map” of the new home in her head.

2. Kind giant.

At first, each member of the family should sit quietly or mind their own business. If the cat approaches you, slowly lower your hand so that the cat can sniff it. Without making sudden movements, start stroking her back. If she allows, pet her on the face: this is also a great way to say hello, because this way the cat will give you its scent, thereby marking you as a friend. Watch her tail: with it, the pet expresses anxiety or disposition. The tail in general can tell a lot about the emotions of a cat.

3. The cat needs to get used to you.

If for some time the cat has been hiding or has not seen certain people, she may again feel frightened in their presence, as if they were strangers. Tell your family and friends to let her take it easy on them. Cat behaviorist Marilyn Krieger suggests extending the index finger first. It may take a few minutes for a cat to establish (or re-establish) a connection between this scent and a certain person. However, when contact is established, she will let you know by rubbing against you, purring or meowing joyfully as a sign of greeting. 

4. A safe place for the cat.

When socializing, a pet must have a safe place where he can stay if he gets scared. It is necessary for the cat not only for the first time, but also in the future, when she is already comfortable in a new place. For these purposes, it is better to immediately put a box or carrier in the room. Place a towel or something soft inside for her to snuggle up against. A cardboard box is also suitable for the role of shelter. Cut a door in it so that the cat can easily get in and out. With the help of such a shelter, the cat will get used to you and begin to trust you.

5. Encourage social behavior, ignore the rest.

When your cat comes out to explore you and your family, praise it, give it treats, and pet it gently. If she is hiding, just ignore her and don’t try to get her out of the shelter. During socialization, it is important to encourage the desired behavior and simply ignore the undesirable. When a cat wants to show you his affection, be sensitive: your responsiveness determines whether she will be shy or become more courageous.

6. The path to trust is through routine.

The socialization of a cat is easier when she gets used to the fact that others behave quite predictably from the very beginning. This allows her to feel secure knowing what to expect from guests and household members. Relatives, whom the pet will see often, should always pet and feed the cat during visits. This will help her get used to them and remember them faster. Feed your cat regularly so she knows you can be relied upon and becomes less anxious. Food, as you already understood, is a great helper in building a good relationship with an animal.

Stay close to the cat as much as possible without direct contact with it. Don’t pressure her into playing or coming to you. Watch TV in the same room as her or read a book. Spending a lot of time in the same room with the animal, sooner or later you will achieve that the cat will grow bolder and come to you.

Maybe it’s a cliché, but still: take your time. Cats are like humans in at least one way: they can be friendly, shy, aggressive, and passive. Depending on your pet’s unique personality, she may bond with the family right away or take a few days. Do not take the initiative in your own hands: you cannot impose love and affection on a cat when she herself has not yet become attached to you. If you already have pets, read our article on introducing your new cat to other animals.