I am sometimes asked for advice on re-homing a cat or kitten, be it a long awaited kitten or a feline that, for whatever reason, needs a new home. Here are a few of my tips, that have proved useful over the years.
However, I would say the #1 tip is YOU!
.... make sure you are as calm and energetically/emotionally balanced as you can possibly be, animals are sensitive to our thoughts, feelings, emotions and stresses - so you want the osmosis between you to be supportive.
Here are a couple of previous blogs that you may find useful:
(this one has a 25 page Kitty care handout and recording)
(this one also has a handout and recording)
Bringing a new cat or kitten or cat into your home can be a wonderful experience, but it's important to make the transition as stress-free as possible for your new feline friend.
Do read the blogs above, lots of info/details in them but here are a few tips to help you achieve a smooth and natural rehoming process:
1. Prepare a Safe Space: Set up a quiet, designated area in your home where the cat can initially stay. Equip this space with a comfortable bed, litter box, food, water, toys, and scratching posts. This allows the cat to acclimate gradually and feel secure.
You may like to include something from their previous home - a toy or small blanket. If the home has been happy it will encourage a feeling of safety. If your kitten is a direct 'rescue', I might not do that as the smell might evoke 'bad' memories.
Scent Familiarity: Rub a soft cloth on the cat's face and then place it in their designated space. This transfers their scent and can help the cat feel more comfortable in the new environment.
2. Gradual Introduction: Introduce the cat to your home gradually. Allow them to explore one room at a time before gradually giving them access to other areas. This helps prevent overwhelming them. Think before you do anything, so not loud noises or quick movements until they are settled in .... e.g. take care when vacuuming!
4. Routine and Consistency: Maintain a consistent daily routine for feeding, playtime, and interaction. Cats feel secure when they know what to expect.
5. Patience: Avoid excessive handling during the initial days. Let the cat come to you at their own pace.
6. Interactive Play: Engage in interactive play sessions using toys like feather wands or laser pointers. This helps build a positive bond and reduces stress by distraction.
7. Tittle Tattle - talk to them, with words and images in your minds, animals pick up more on 'pictures' than words. Tell them they are safe, loved and so welcome to their new home, that you are there for them and they can relax. You may accompany by gentle stroking if they like it, if not, simply trace Figure 8 or heart shapes in the air around them, or even from a distance, these symbols have a gentle healing vibrational value.
8. Vertical Space: Cats feel safer when they have vertical spaces to retreat to. Provide cat trees, shelves, or perches where they can observe their surroundings from a higher vantage point.
9. Hideaways: Provide hiding spots like covered beds or boxes where the cat can retreat when they feel overwhelmed. This gives them a sense of security. (Amazon was created by cats so they always had a supply of new cardboard boxes !!!)
10.Other Pets: If you have other pets, introduce them gradually and under supervision. Allow them to get used to each other's scents and presence before direct interactions.
Flower essences and homeopathic remedies are natural approaches that some people find helpful in reducing stress and anxiety in cats during the rehoming process. Ideally consult a professional, but here are a few you might like to consider:
Flower Essences:
1. Bach Rescue Remedy for Pets: This is a well-known blend of flower essences that is commonly used to help calm pets during stressful situations. It can be added to the cat's water or food.
2. Bach Star of Bethlehem: This essence is often used for shock, trauma, and sudden changes. It might be beneficial for a cat that is experiencing the stress of rehoming.
3. Bach Mimulus: This essence is used for known fears and anxieties. It could be helpful if your cat seems to be displaying specific fears or phobias.
Homeopathic Remedies:
1. Aconitum napellus: This remedy is often used for sudden fright and anxiety. It might be helpful if your cat is particularly anxious after being rehomed.
2. Pulsatilla: This remedy is often associated with gentle, timid animals. It could be considered if your cat is showing signs of being overwhelmed or clingy.
3. Arsenicum album: This remedy is used for anxiety that is accompanied by restlessness. If your cat is pacing or seems unable to settle, this might be worth considering.
Herbs and crystals can be used to promote a sense of calm and reduce stress in cats. For example:
1. Valerian Root: Valerian root is known for its calming properties and is often used to alleviate anxiety in both humans and animals. You can find valerian root supplements specifically formulated for pets. Don't use the human versions!
2. Chamomile: Chamomile is a mild sedative that can have a calming effect. You can brew chamomile tea and add a small amount to your cat's food or water. Or spray on your hands and stroke along the cat's back.
3. Catnip: Many cats are attracted to catnip, and it can have a stimulating yet calming effect on them. You can provide catnip toys or use dried catnip leaves as a treat.
4. Lavender: Lavender is often used for its soothing scent. You can use a lavender-infused spray on bedding or in the cat's environment, but make sure the scent is not too strong, as cats have sensitive noses.
A WORD OF CAUTION HERE - Cats and kittens do NOT metabolise aromatherapy oils very well so please do not use any essential oils. Take care with what you diffuse in your house too.
Crystals:
1. Amethyst: Amethyst is often associated with calming and relaxation. Placing a small amethyst crystal in the cat's space might help create a soothing atmosphere.
2. Rose Quartz: Rose quartz is considered a stone of love and comfort. It may promote a sense of security and well-being.
3. Sodalite: Sodalite is said to promote tranquillity and inner peace. It might create a calming environment for your cat.
My rule of thumb is to ENERGY TEST anything at all you give to your cat or put in his/her environment. Can't energy test? Go to my website blog and under the animal care section are numerous blogs on how to energy test. It opens up a whole new world for you and takes away the 'guesswork'. If you join my website newsletter mailing list you receive 5 free gifts, one of which is a booklet on how to test.
If you are new to 'cat care' or would like to expand your knowledge, read the blogs (and always check for embedded video links) and also consider buying my little book ENERGY MEDICINE FOR YOUR CAT - all profits go to charity.
But let me end as I started by reminding you to look to yourself first and be as calm and happy around your cat as you can and simply by the act of osmosis you'll be supporting that little furry bundle!