Rule of three: 3 days unsettled, 3 weeks relaxed, 3 months settled.
10 steps across 1 sections
1. Steps Guide
- Self-assessment — Lifestyle, allergies, 15-20 year commitment
- Research breeds — Energy, grooming, temperament
- Find shelter/rescue
- Supplies — Litter box (per cat +1), litter, bowls, food, scratching, toys, carrier
- Cat-proof home — Plants, loose items, blind cords
- Transition room — One room with food, water, litter, hiding
- First vet visit — Vaccinations, health, spay/neuter, microchip
- Food transition — Same initially. Gradual 7-10 days
- Litter box — Away from food. Scoop daily
- Gradual exploration — After days, introduce rooms
Common Mistakes
- Not enough litter boxes
- Forcing interactions
- Declawing (harmful)
- Free-feeding obesity
- No quarantine new pets
Pro Tips
- Rule of 3: 3d, 3w, 3m
- Quarantine 2+ weeks
- Vertical spaces for safety
- Daily interactive play
- Consider bonded pair