Bringing a cat home for the holidays
The holiday season is a magical time to open your heart—and home—to a new furry family member. If you are planning to spend the holidays at home, it’s the perfect opportunity to help a newly adopted cat adjust to their surroundings. Here are some tips to make your home welcoming and safe for your new feline friend this holiday season.
Create a cozy space
Adoption is a big change for any animal. Providing your new cat with a quiet, comfortable area can help them feel secure as they settle into their new home. Luckily, when you adopt from any of the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society animal centres, your new friend comes with their very own cat cabin, thanks to the Pet Valu Companions for Change™ program. These versatile cardboard hideaways offer a familiar space for your cat to relax while they get accustomed to their new environment. Position the cabin in a quiet spot, away from the hustle and bustle of holiday festivities.
Gradual introductions
The holidays can be noisy and busy, so be mindful of how overwhelming new sights, smells, and sounds may be for your cat. Keep introductions to family members, other furry companions, and rooms in your house gradual. Let your cat explore at their own pace and offer plenty of positive reinforcement to build their confidence.
Holiday safety matters
The holidays bring unique safety concerns for animals. Secure Christmas trees to prevent tipping and avoid decorations like tinsel, which can pose choking hazards and can cause harm if ingested. Keep holiday plants like poinsettias, mistletoe, and holly out of reach, as they can be toxic to cats. If you light candles, never leave them unattended in case a curious paw comes too close, or your pet knocks the candle over and starts a fire.
Quality bonding time
Time spent at home during the holidays is perfect for bonding and enrichment. Play with your new cat using wand toys, offer treats, and give gentle pets to build trust and affection. Cats also appreciate routine, so establishing consistent feeding and play schedules can help them feel secure.
Bringing a cat home during the holidays is a special way to celebrate the season. By creating a welcoming environment, prioritizing safety, and offering patience, you’ll set your new feline friend up for a happy, stress-free transition into your family.
The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society’s iAdopt for the Holidays campaign is on now until December 24. Our goal is to find loving homes for 500 animals across the province, including 50 long-term residents who are dreaming of spending the holidays with their new family. Visit ontariospca.ca/adopt to view our animals available for adoption.
If you’re not able to adopt, there are still many ways you can support animals in need this holiday season. Consider donating to help provide shelter and care to animals waiting for their forever homes. Or shop our Paws & Give™ online store for the perfect gift for the animal lover in your life – or an animal awaiting adoption.
