Twice recently we received calls from adoptive families stating that they didn’t think their new kitten was working out. Both times it was within 24 hours of taking the cat home. It was suggested that they try it for a few more days.

Bringing a new pet into the house naturally involves a period of adjustment, on the part of all beings involved. This can be a matter of hours, days, or sometimes weeks, depending on the individuals and if there are already pets in residence.

Keep in mind that the cat will be scared and its natural instinct is to find a hiding place, even if it means launching out of someone’s arms leaving scratches behind.

The tendency of humans is to hold close something that is dear to us, but to a kitten it could be viewed as predatory and it may bite. If the animal struggles to get down, set it down gently and let it go. Then entice it back with a toy or treat to show you are no threat.

There is always a lot of excitement surrounding the introduction of a new pet. When children are present, that means noise and possibly grabbing and competition for the animal’s attention. Again, this will be very scary and overwhelming for a tiny cat and annoying for an older one.

If the kitten is very young, keep it in a small quiet room for the first couple of days. Offer lots of toys and cubby holes to hide in so it feels safe. Visit often and include lots of loving touches and play time. It will need to learn your scent and view you as the source of food and all things good.

You will notice that there will be a mad dash for cover when you enter the room, until the animal has become used to your comings and goings.

Even an older cat should be kept sequestered for a few days until it becomes used to the sights, sounds and smells of its new home. It, too, must feel safe before it will venture out and join the family.

Kittens are trained by their mothers to hide while she is out hunting. She will return every two hours or so to feed them, making calling sounds as she approaches. I use the same methods when I foster and socialize ferals, calling them out of hiding and offering food as I enter their sanctuary.

Take the time to get to know your new pet and for it to get to know you. As with anything worth having, don’t try and rush things and don’t give up. It will definitely be worth the wait.

And both those callers mentioned earlier? We haven’t heard another word about their kittens not working out.