June is Adopt A Shelter Cat Month! While any month is a good time to give a kitty a great home, this is a particularly great time to adopt one. At this time of year, shelters are overflowing with kittens, which is a strain on available resources. If you’re adopting a shelter cat, you definitely have our support. Here, a Chesapeake, VA vet offers some tips on helping Fluffy adjust.
Shopping List
Make sure you have everything you need ready for your feline pal. Your shopping list should include food, dishes, toys, treats, bedding, a carrier, and some kitty furniture. (You get bonus purrs if you bring all of this home in a box, and then give the box to Fluffy, too.) You may want to put these things in a quiet spot, like a spare room, at first. Major changes, like going to a new home, can be quite scary for cats. Your new pet will appreciate having a safe, comfy spot to relax and settle in.
Veterinary Care
One of the first things you’ll want to do is introduce Fluffy to her new doctor. Meeting our adorable new patients never gets old! Most shelter pets have already been fixed and microchipped. However, if Fluffy hasn’t been, then you’ll want to get these things done right away. You’ll also want to make sure that your pet is current on her vaccines and parasite control products. A thorough, nose-to-tail exam is also on the agenda.
Introductions
Do you have other pets? Introduce your furry buddies slowly. First impressions are a huge deal to cats! It may take your animal companions time to get used to each other, but that’s just ‘purr’ for the course.
Petproofing
We probably don’t have to tell you that cats can be prone to mischief. Make your home safe for Fluffy by addressing potential dangers, such as toxic plants, plastic ties and wrappers, medicine, chemicals, and anything small or sharp.
Purr Activation
Some kitties are furry little cuddlebugs, that will immediately jump into your lap and start purring. Others may immediately hide under the bed, and only timidly peek out for the first few days. Just give Fluffy the time and space she needs. You’ll have that motor going before you know it!
As your local Chesapeake, VA vet clinic, we are dedicated to offering great care. Call us anytime!
