Care guide
The First Week
A practical first-week rhythm for helping a newly arrived rescue animal settle safely.
Keep the world small
The first week is not the time to test every park, cafe or family visit. Keep walks short and familiar, and give cats one safe room before expanding their access. Safety and rest matter more than novelty.
Watch body language
Look for small signs: eating, drinking, choosing to rest, sniffing calmly or approaching without pressure. If the animal avoids contact, give more space. Trust often starts when the animal learns that people will not force interaction.
Avoid fast introductions
Introduce resident animals gradually and with physical separation at first. Let animals smell bedding and observe each other safely before direct contact. Children should be calm, seated and supervised around a new rescue animal.
Record useful notes
Write down appetite, sleep, toilet habits and any worrying symptoms. Simple notes help the rescue team and local vet give better advice if questions come up.