Meet my new kitten, Nelly! Earlier this year, I was heartbroken when my dear cat Bella passed away. Bella was family to me, and her loss left a hole in my heart.
I knew I would adopt another cat eventually, but I wasn’t sure when the time would be right.
Choosing to open my heart and home again was a significant decision. To me, pets are family members, and adopting a new cat is a serious, long-term commitment.
Before adopting Nelly, I spent time reflecting on a few important considerations. I’m sharing these topics to help guide you as you explore adopting a new cat.
1. Take Time to Process Grief and Be Emotionally Ready
Losing Bella was very hard, and I needed time to grieve. I honored her memory by organizing photos and writing this tribute about her. I let myself feel sadness as it came up, which helped the healing process. Bella was irreplaceable and will forever be missed.
During this time, I also grew closer to my other cat, Lewie, who got extra attention after Bella’s passing.
Eventually, I felt I could open my heart again and give a cat in need a loving home.
If you've lost a pet, take all the time you need to heal. The decision to adopt again is personal. Only you will know when the time feels right.
2. Consider Your Other Pets
As I considered adopting a new cat, Lewie’s well-being was top of mind. Would he be comfortable with a new kitten?
I rescued Lewie 4 years ago after he was living outside as a stray. He is an easy-going, friendly boy, likely around 8 years old. Seeing how he bonded with Bella gave me hope that with a slow and thoughtful introduction, he could build a friendship with a new cat.
According to the Feline Veterinary Medical Association, if you already have a cat, consider whether he or she is sociable, territorial, or introverted. Also consider age, playfulness, and health. Some cats prefer to live alone while others prefer socialization. Consider speaking with your veterinarian about your current pets to see whether a new addition may be a good fit.
3. Consider Your Financial Situation
During Nelly’s first week, she needed a new kitten vet visit, a fecal test, and medications after she tested positive for the parasite, giardia. I also bought her kitten food and her own made in the USA cat products. Upcoming vet visits and vaccine boosters will add to the initial costs.
Adopting a cat is often a 12-20 year commitment. It’s crucial to ensure that you can handle the costs, both now and in the future.
To help with budgeting, I estimate initial and recurring expenses for food, supplies, and vet visits. I also maintain an emergency savings fund for my cats and purchase a high-deductible pet insurance plan in case of major health issues.
4. Evaluate Your Schedule
Based on my prior experience adopting cats, I knew the first few weeks would be extra busy dedicating time to Nelly’s adjustment and making sure Lewie had quality time. I avoided scheduling travel or major events during this period for a smoother transition.
5. Prepare Your Space
Setting up a safe, enclosed space is key for a new cat. I initially set up the guest bathroom as Nelly's space.
The smaller area helped her feel secure, let me monitor her closely, and allowed Lewie to adjust to her presence without direct interaction.
Bathrooms are also easy to sanitize, which proved helpful with her giardia diagnosis.
6. Get New Supplies
Give your adopted cat new supplies. The Feline Veterinary Medical Association notes that, "not having sufficient, visually separated resources is the most common cause of tension between cats."
They recommend at least one of the following per cat:
- Food bowl
- Water bowl
- Litter box
- Scratcher
- Bed
- Toy
Except for the bowls which can be fully sanitized, I bought Nelly new supplies, so that she would not smell Lewie on the items she was using every day. I wanted her to feel safe and avoid unnecessary stress.
Are You Ready?
Adopting a new cat is both exciting and nerve-wracking. There’s no perfect time, but reflecting on these considerations can help you determine if you're prepared. Trust your mind and heart to know when you’re ready to welcome a new kitty into your life!
If you're looking for additional guidance as you bring a new cat home, check out the articles in our Cat Care Blog.
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