Ever wonder what makes a stray cat choose your doorstep? It’s all about the vibe and setup you offer. There are a dozen ways your home can become the chosen one for a wandering whiskered friend without you even knowing it! Roll out the welcome mat with these 12 tips.
1. Keep Water Fresh and Close
Water is basic for cats, too. So, always have fresh water out and keep it close. Change it daily to make sure it’s inviting. Cats are discreet about their drinking habits, but they’ll love the thoughtfulness of consistently clean and accessible water.
2. Offer Cozy Bedding Options
Scatter a few cozy beds in and around your house in quiet, tucked-away places. This is like offering VIP lounge access in your home, which your new guest will surely appreciate. Make sure the area and the bedding material are always comfortable for snooze sessions.
3. Make Your Home Calmer
Loud noises? No thanks! Cats prefer peace and quiet, especially strays who aren’t used to indoor sounds. To make them feel at ease, set up a calm zone where the cat can chill out away from the hustle and bustle of households and streets.
4. Handle Gradually and Gently
Gentle handling can help a stray cat get used to the human touch and build a deep bond between you two. This makes them feel loved and secure. In the beginning, stroke them only when they ask for it. After some time, you can initiate the pats and rubs on your own.
5. Feed Like Clockwork
Set a regular meal schedule to help your stray pal feel right at home. It builds trust and stability and turns your place into a reliable dining spot. Who knew that feeding at the same time every day could make such a big difference?
6. Schedule Daily Playtime
Daily play sessions can help, too. Think of it as happy hour for a stray cat. Regular play keeps them fit and mentally stimulated, plus it’s a blast for both of you. But for safety reasons, make sure you are not introducing kids or other pets too soon.
7. Provide a Variety of Toys
Like pups, cats also enjoy toys. Mix up the toy box with feathers, balls, and interactive toys. Keeping things fresh in the play department means the stray cat will always have something exciting to look forward to, which makes your place even more interesting.
8. Create Safe Climbing Areas
Cats love to climb. Climbing is a great way for them to stay active, explore high spaces safely, and watch over their new kingdom from up high. To make your home ready for this action, set up some cat-friendly shelves or a climbing tree around the house.
9. Set Up a Bird-Watching Spot
Find a window with a view and clear a perch for the cat. Watching birds can keep cats entertained for hours. It’s like television for cats but way more engaging and natural. They’ll love the front-row seat to nature’s little dramas.
10. Place Plenty of Scratch Posts
Save your furniture and offer designated scratch posts instead. Cats need to scratch to keep their claws sharp, stretch their bodies, and relieve stress. Therefore, placing posts around your home will give them a healthy outlet for their natural instincts.
11. Provide Proper Medical Care
If the stray doesn’t look well, or they’ve been to your home several times, it’s time to take them to the vet. Regular check-ups are important for their well-being because they make sure the cat is getting the right care and treatment in their new home.
12. Give Them Time to Settle
Patience is necessary when it comes to welcoming a new guest or family member. Therefore, give your cat time to adjust at their own pace. Every cat warms up differently, so let them explore and get comfortable in their new surroundings without pressure.
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