When you bring a new cat into your home, it’s important to remember that each cat is unique and will behave differently while adjusting to its new environment. 

The first 30 days you spend with your cat are crucial, with the initial three weeks being especially important for building a strong bond and establishing healthy habits. This is where the 3-3-3 rule comes in.

The First “3” Is For The First Three Days

During this time, give your cat space to adjust to its new surroundings. Allow it to freely explore the house and approach you on its own terms. This helps the cat feel safe and in control. 

It’s advisable to keep your cat in a specific area with toys, a bed, food, water, and a litter box. This way, it can familiarize itself with its belongings and become comfortable using the litter box. 

Be patient as your cat may initially hide or feel overwhelmed. Your cat might feel relaxed as soon as it gets to its new home, but it may also be:

• overwhelmed

• scared or hesitant

• uncomfortable

• refuse to drink or eat

• hide away

Take it one area at a time and gradually introduce it to the rest of the house as it relaxes and becomes accustomed to its surroundings.

The Second “3” Is For The First Three Weeks

By this point, your cat will be adjusting to the new routine and getting used to your schedule and habits. It may start exploring other rooms in the house. 

Placing cat trees, litter boxes, and cat beds in different areas can provide familiar scents and make your cat feel more at ease. 

This phase involves settling in, feeling safe, becoming more comfortable, exploring a wider area, establishing a routine, and revealing its personality. Keep an eye out for any behavioral issues that may arise. 

Some points to look at during the first 3 weeks:

• Cat is starting to settle in

• Starts feeling safe

• Starts to feel more comfortable

• Explores a wider area in your home

• Learns its daily routine

• Its personality starts to shine through

• Beware of behavioral issues

It’s also crucial to find a trustworthy vet and establish a good relationship to ensure your cat’s well-being.

You should select a vet with whom you feel comfortable to talk about anything that might interest you or that you might need regarding your cat. It should be a person who’ll have the time to talk to you and answer any questions you may have.

Finally, The Third “3” Is For The First Three Months

By this time, your cat should recognize your home as its own. The adjustment process requires patience, but the bond between you and your cat should have strengthened. Now you can enjoy the fruits of your efforts and start training your cat. 

Use this time to build a stronger bond and teach basic commands, such as responding to its name. Repetition and positive reinforcement, such as treats or affection, will aid in training. 

During this period, your cat should feel fully comfortable, trust you, and have a sense of safety and security in its home.

Key points for this period include: 

• Cat is finally fully comfortable in its home

• The bond is formed and your cat begins to trust you

• The cat now feels safe and secure in its home

• Your cat has learned its routine

Remember…

The 3-3-3 rule emphasizes the significance of the initial days, weeks, and months when bringing a new cat into your home. 

Patience is key during the adjustment process, but the rewards are well worth it. If you’ve adopted a new cat or gone through this adjustment process, we invite you to share your experience on our Facebook page.