New to cat ownership

Hello feline lovers *G*

We're about to inherit a cat from our son, after 60 years of dog ownership. Frankly, I'm very interested in a cat's behavior, having "babysat" our son's cat on a couple of occasions. Unfortunately for the cat, our son has to remove it from his premises as his fiance' is allergic to cats. We don't want his cat to go to a shelter, so he will be giving it to us. Uncertain of the felines details (age) other than sex (M). With the limited experience I've had with this cat, I'm really intrigued! At the risk of stating the obvious, completely different behavior from any of the canines we've owned. It's taken the cat a while to warm up to us. Initially when I 'd go to pet it it would hiss & swipe its paw at me, but eventually that behavior has diminished. Definitely beginning Cats 101 and welcome any & all suggestions to make the transition smooth for both of us. *G*

I was a total dog person, having grown up with 4 dogs, until my first cat adopted me.  Now I'm a total cat lover.  Thank you for taking in your son's cat rather than letting it be taken to a shelter. 

Cats aren't all that different from dogs except that they don't need to be walked and they don't have to be taken outside to do their business and play and run around.  They both enjoy people and are great companions.  They both have their quirks and idiosyncrasies, but so do we humans! 

Expect your kitty to hide while he adjusts to his new home. If your son can bring a dirty shirt for the kitty to lay on, it will help with his transition.  If you can provide a spare bedroom for the kitty for the first few days, that will also help him transition.  That way, he's not overwhelmed by the whole new house and you can make sure that he's eating well, drinking appropriately, and using the litter box well.  Then, gradually allow him into the rest of the house at his pace.  Be prepared for him to hide since his whole world has been turned upside down and be unsure and a little stressed out at the changes.  Be patient.  Allow him to advance at his own pace.  Speak calmly and quietly to him.  Don't expect him to be overly social at first.

The activity level of your kitty will be largely dependent upon its age.  Younger kitties tend to be very, very active and older kitties tend to be less active, but still have bursts of energy and playtime.

The litterbox will be your biggest adjustment.  You will need to clean it at least daily, if not twice a day.  Be sure to offer 2 litter boxes just in case he doesn't like to urinate and defecate in the same box.  Your son will probably bring you his current box, litter, food, and toys.  Completely change out the litter and clean the box every couple of weeks. 

Provide your new kitty with lots of windows to watch the birds and outside world.  This can provide endless hours of entertainment.  Also, depending on the age of your kitty, you might want to invest in some interactive toys such as DaBird which is my all-time favorite interactive cat toy.  All of my  kitties love to chase it, no matter their age.  It's a wand toy, so you can use it to draw out your kitty.  Kitties bond during playtime.

Watch his weight and feed him accordingly.  Your son will be able to tell you how often and how much he's been feeding.

Welcome to TCS

This is a great resource for cat guardians. Very knowledgeable advisors and a supportive community from all over the world.

I'm so happy for you and this kitty as he gets to open a whole new world for you! I've always had both cats and dogs and love them both equally.

Looking forward to updates on your new charge. What's his name? Can you post a picture?
Again, welcome and glad you are here.

Hello Stephanie,

Thank you for all your suggestions. We weren't expecting the cat (Murray) until next week, but our son's schedule changed so he brought him on Sunday. Fortunately Murray has visited here a number of occasions and is familiar with all the rooms. Per your suggestion our son brought an unwashed tee shirt, which he left on his bed. AFAIK Murray has yet to sleep on that bed *G*. We have lots of windows, and I've found he favors a couple, along with our grand piano which gives him a wider vantage point. We are diligently monitoring the box and cleaning it. After he gets a little more settled I may try playing with him, but right now he is a little stand-offish, which we expected. Our son brought his food & bowl with feeding instructions, so we're now excited for the new addition to our family!

Regards,

John

Hello Lotsof,

Thank you for your welcome! His name is Murray, and as soon as I figure out how to post  pics on here, I will.

Regards,

John

That is great that you are taking your son's cat so he doesn't have to be surrendered to a shelter. It's good that Murray is already somewhat familiar with you and his new home. That may help adjust quicker than otherwise. @stephanietx gave you some great advice. I would ask your son how old Murray is. And I would see if he could get his vet records. That info would be helpful especially if he will see a different vet that before. Welcome!