🐾 Welcome Home: What to Expect in the First Week
By One Love Animal Rescue
Keywords: rescue cat tips, cat adoption, new cat at home, 3-3-3 rule cat, first week with rescue cat
Bringing a rescue cat home is exciting—but it can also be a little overwhelming for everyone involved. Whether you’re a first-time adopter or a seasoned cat parent, the first 7 days are a major transition period. Your new cat may seem shy, confused, or even aloof—and that’s okay.
At One Love Animal Rescue, we like to remind adopters of the “3–3–3 Rule”:
-
3 days to decompress
-
3 weeks to start adjusting
-
3 months to fully settle in
Let’s walk through what to expect during those first few days and how to help your cat feel safe and loved from the start.
🐱 Day 1–3: Let Them Hide (It’s Normal!)
Your cat might head straight under the bed or behind a couch. Hiding is a natural instinct for cats in a new environment.
How to help:
-
Set up a quiet, calm room with essentials (litter box, food/water, cozy bed)
-
Let your cat come to you—avoid forcing interaction
-
Sit nearby, talk softly, and let your presence become familiar
🧡 Remember: Patience is key. This is a huge change for them, especially if they’ve experienced stress, neglect, or multiple moves.
🍽️ One Love Tip: Familiar Food Helps
We send every adopted cat home with a small adoption kit, including the wet and dry food they’ve been eating in foster care. We recommend:
-
Gradually mixing in any new food over 7–10 days
-
Watching for signs of tummy upset when transitioning
-
Offering treats by hand once they’re more comfortable (to build trust)
🧼 Day 4–7: Exploration Begins
Your cat may start to venture out a bit, use the litter box more confidently, or follow you into another room. That’s a great sign of progress!
How to help:
-
Keep a consistent routine for feeding and cleaning
-
Avoid loud noises, visitors, or major changes to their space
-
Introduce new areas of the home slowly, one room at a time
-
Begin short gentle play sessions with a wand toy or teaser
🛏️ Litter Box & Territory Tips
Rescue cats can be especially sensitive about their space. To set them up for success:
-
Keep the litter box away from their food/water
-
Use the same litter they’re used to (we’ll tell you what that is)
-
Avoid strong-smelling litters or cleaners
-
Place a blanket or towel with their scent in other parts of the home to expand their comfort zone
🧠 Bonus Tips for a Smoother First Week
✅ Use a pheromone diffuser like Feliway to ease anxiety
✅ Leave a soft radio or calming music on while you’re out
✅ Keep kids and other pets separate for now—introductions can come later
✅ Schedule a wellness vet visit (we’ll let you know if your cat is already up to date!)
🐾 The Key: Consistency, Patience, and Love
Every cat is different. Some adapt in a day. Others take weeks to feel safe. But with your gentle presence, predictable routine, and a little guidance, your cat will blossom.
🐾 The 3–3–3 Rule reminds us:
In 3 days, they may hide.
In 3 weeks, they start adjusting.
In 3 months, they feel at home.
You’re not just giving them a roof over their head—you’re giving them a second chance.
📢 Need Support?
We’re always here for you! Whether you’re worried about behavior, need advice on integration, or just want to share a cute update, reach out to the One Love team. We love watching rescue cats find their forever families—and we’re with you every step of the way.
📬 Stay Updated
Follow One Love Animal Rescue on Instagram/Facebook or join our newsletter for cat care tips, adoption spotlights, and upcoming events.