10 Common Adopted Stray Cat Behavior

Have you lately adopted a new pet into your home that you rescued from the streets? Are you wondering why the stray cat you adopted is acting the way it is?

Even cats that are saved from the streets are sophisticated animals that display a variety of behaviors.

We’ll look at both normal and abnormal behavior of stray cats who have been adopted in this blog article, including how they interact with people and other cats as well as how they explore their new surroundings.

Please continue reading to learn more about your adopted stray cat’s behavior!

What Are Stray Cats

Cats who have been abandoned, misplaced, or cut off from their owners and are now residing on the streets are referred to as stray cats.

They were formerly socialized to people and may still be sociable, therefore they are not wild cats.

In urban settings, stray cats frequently hunt for food and shelter in groupings known as colonies.

There are several groups that aid stray cats, such as the Trap-Neuter-Return programs that help spay and neuter the cats while also giving them food and medical attention.

Adopted Stray Cat Behavior

The following are some common-adopted stray cat behavior you should expect:

Adaptability

It’s possible that street cats are more adaptive than other cats. Because they adapt to the constant changes in the streets.

They could have had to adapt to many conditions and settings while living on the streets, such as obtaining shelter or food in various places, which might make them more adaptable and resilient.

Their capacity to adapt to new habits, laws and settings will be helpful in their new home.

Therefore, adaptability is a unique-adopted stray cat behavior you should look out for.

Having a strong survival instinct

Cats that have been living on the streets may possess a strong sense of survival.

If they feel threatened, they may act quickly to discover hiding places or escape routes.

This can be a helpful habit in their new home if they feel intimidated or scared.

The truth is that most stray cats have seen it all, most of them fight every day just to survive in the streets.

Being territorial

As part of having a strong survival instinct, stray cats can also display territorial behavior.

Unlike other cats, stray cats who have lived on the streets could be more possessive.

It’s possible that they had to protect their turf on the streets, which may have strengthened their sense of ownership of their new residence.

They could leave their smell behind in a new place or guard particular portions of the house, such as their bed or preferred perch.

Being skittish

Unlike other cats, stray cats who have lived on the streets could be more readily spooked.

Because they may have needed to be on high alert at all times to keep safe on the streets, unexpected movements or loud noises may set off their natural instincts, making them feel uneasy or afraid.

Adopted stray cats should be handled gently and patiently to ensure that they feel at ease and secure in their new environment.

Having a strong prey drive

It’s possible that stray cats that have lived on the streets have had to go hunting for food, which might result in a strong prey drive.

They could love chasing after laser pointers and other interactive toys, as well as playing with items that imitate prey, including little balls or stuffed mice.

Stray cats literally hunt or work for their food so if you adopt a stray expect to see their strong prey drive once in a while.

They are affectionate once they accept you

Once they are at ease in their new home, adopted stray cats may be highly loving with their human carers.

They could love rubbing up against their human’s legs and snuggling with them.

They might also express their appreciation by licking or sitting on their laps.

Once you adopt a stray cat you should do your best to win its trust and love.

Hiding behavior

An adopted stray cat could feel disoriented and overwhelmed when it is first brought home.

They could seek refuge in a closed space, such as a closet or under a bed, to feel protected.

Giving the cat some time and space to get used to its new surroundings will help you handle this behavior, which is typical.

When you first brought home your adopted stray cat, you should expect to see more of a hiding behavior that will go away over time.

Being cautious

Compared to other cats, adopted stray cats may be more cautious since they may have needed to be continuously aware of their surroundings to keep safe.

They can need some time to become used to new people and circumstances before they feel at ease, but once they do, they can make incredibly loving and devoted friends.

Vocalizing

Meows, chirps, and other vocalizations may be utilized by stray cats who have lived on the streets to communicate with other cats.

They may go on acting in this way even after being adopted, using vocalizations to communicate their emotions or wants or to get attention from their human caretakers.

Being independent

Since they may have developed self-sufficiency while living on the streets, adopted stray cats may be more independent than other cats.

They might not need as much attention, food, or fun from their human carers, but they still require love and affection, just like all cats do.

Learn more about places where feral cats sleep.

How to help an adopted stray cat adjust

Here are some tips to help your new feline friend settle into their new home:

Gradually introduce them to the home

Let your adopted stray cat gently explore their new home.

Start with one room and progressively introduce more as people get more at ease.

Give them space and time

It’s crucial to allow your new cat time to get used to their new environment because they could be anxious and scared at first.

Provide them with a calm area where they can go when they’re feeling overwhelmed.

Provide familiar items

If at all feasible, give your cat a blanket or toy that was part of its old habitat.

They may feel more at ease in their new surroundings as a result.

Keep a routine

Try to have a regular schedule for feeding and playing since cats thrive on routine.

Keeping a regular or daily routine will help your adopted stray cat adjust faster.

Use positive reinforcement

Reward positive conduct with food, compliments, and love.

This will enable your cat to connect its new home with pleasant memories.

Provide hiding places

Most adopted stray cats want to have a safe area to hide out when they are overwhelmed.

Provide your adopted stray cat somewhere to hide, such as a box or a covered cat bed.

Consider getting a companion

If your adopted stray cat appears lonely or uninterested, think about getting her a cat friend.

So make sure to introduce them gradually and with caution.

Be Patient

In general, assisting an adopted stray cat is settling into its new home requires time and understanding.

Your new pet will eventually become content and cherished member of your family with some time and care.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my newly adopted stray cat is comfortable in their new home?

Purring, playing, rubbing against furniture, and frequent use of the litter box are indications that your cat is at ease in their new residence.

However, bear in mind that your cat can need some time to become used to their new surroundings.

My adopted stray cat is hiding and won’t come out. What should I do?

Provide your cat some time and space to get used to its new surroundings.

Give them a peaceful, secure place to retreat to, such as a plush bed or a place to hide like a cardboard box with a blanket inside.

To entice them to emerge when they feel secure, you may also place food and water close to where they are hiding.

My adopted stray cat is meowing excessively. Is this normal?

An excessive amount of meowing may indicate stress, anxiety, or a health problem.

Yet, for some cats, especially those that are attempting to interact with their new owners, it can also be a typical behavior.

Consult your veterinarian if you are worried.

How can I bond with my adopted stray cat?

Play, groom, and converse with your cat while you spend time together.

When they behave well, give them snacks and praise. Furthermore, make sure they have cozy and secure surroundings.

Be patient, though, and let your cat come to you on their own terms.

My adopted stray cat is scratching my furniture. What should I do?

Provide your cat with a suitable place to scratch, such as a cardboard scratcher or a scratching post, and prevent them from damaging your furniture with deterrent tape or sprays.

Yet, as scratching is a normal activity, you should never discipline your cat for it.

My adopted stray cat is not using their litter box. What should I do?

Make sure your cat can readily reach the litter box and that it is clean.

Offer many litter boxes in various locations, especially in a house with numerous levels.

Choose a litter that your cat enjoys using, and think about seeing your veterinarian to rule out any medical problems.

Learn more about why cats are attracted to your house.

Conclusion

It can be satisfying to adopt a stray cat, but it’s vital to keep in mind that it may take some time for them to become used to their new surroundings and develop good behavior.

Cats might find it challenging to settle into a new home, but with time and love, their owners can teach them good manners and help them grow to be cherished members of the family.

As a result, if you’re thinking about adopting a stray cat, be patient and give it the time and space it needs to acclimate and feel at home.