What To Expect When You’re Expecting… To Adopt a Cat

So, you’re thinking about bringing home a new feline family member - cue the happy squeals, the endless scrolling through adoption photos, meeting “the one” at the shelter, and imagining all the cuddles to come. But as exciting as it is, those first few days (or even weeks) don’t always go as we imagined, and that’s completely normal. So, what should you know before bringing your new bestie home?

Personalities Can Change (and That’s Okay)

The cat you meet at the shelter, or the way a foster parent describes them, might not be the same cat you see once they’ve settled into your home. Cats take time to feel safe, and their behaviour in a shelter or foster setting is often their way of coping.

A shy cat might surprise you by becoming the bravest adventurer you’ve ever met, and an energetic cat may be more withdrawn at first as they adjust. Try to stay flexible and get to know the cat in front of you, not just the version you imagined.

A quick myth-buster: don’t adopt a cat expecting a certain personality based on coat colour or gender. There’s no evidence that “tortie sass,” “orange goofiness,” or male/female stereotypes actually predict behaviour. Most rescue cats are simply “domestic short, medium, or long-haired cats”, not true breeds, so their personalities are wonderfully individual.

Cats Need Patience (More Than Most People Realize)

Moving into a brand-new space can be overwhelming, scary, or overstimulating for cats. Even once they seem comfortable, they may still be a bit jumpy around unfamiliar sounds, objects, or situations.

The biggest thing you can give them? Time.

There’s no deadline for them to “settle in.” Avoid pushing interactions or progress so you don’t accidentally make yourself seem unsafe. Instead, be their safe space and provide all the care and enrichment they need as they warm up.

If you already have a cat at home, patience becomes even more important. Introductions must be slow and structured. Every cat needs a different amount of time and management to learn how to live peacefully with a new roommate.

Some Behaviour Concerns Are Completely Normal

A new environment means new rules, new routines, and new experiences. It’s common for adopted cats to:

• Hide often
• Meow more than usual
• Seem confused about the litter box
• Explore at night
• Be unsure about new people or spaces

All behaviour is communication, and all of it is part of adjusting.

Set them up for success by offering safe hiding places, clear litter box setups, and a predictable routine. They’ll learn, decompress, and settle in as they understand that your home is exactly that - home.

Keep Learning (Yes, Even If You’ve Had Cats Forever)

Cat care is always evolving. What was considered “best” 10 or 20 years ago may not be what’s recommended today.

Whether you’re a first-time adopter or a lifelong cat parent, brushing up on modern cat behaviour and care can be one of the best things you do for your new cat. And if you work in rescue or sheltering, providing updated resources - and partnering with a behaviour professional - helps set adopters up for success.

The biggest takeaway?

Look at the cat in front of you, not through the lens of who you expected.

Who are they now?

Who are they becoming?

And how can you support them in living their very best life with you?

Want to feel even more prepared? Tori and Purrsuasion offer purrsonalized support to help choosing and bringing home your new addition go as smoothly as possible. Check out our Enriched Cat Package.