Introducing Your Cat to New People

     Have a plan in place for when you have visitors and want them to meet your cat. Make sure to balance

your guest’s enthusiasm with your cat’s needs. Provide your cat with a quiet and low traffic room in the

home where they can retreat to if they are not feeling social. Allow your cat to acclimate to visitors

slowly. Allow them to choose to come out of their room and greet your visitors at their own pace.

     Whether it is at the top of a cat tree, over a baby gate, or in a quiet room, all cats need to be able to

get away when they want to. Teach your guests to respect these hideouts. Your cat should know that

they are not going to be dragged out of these special places. A cat who is picked up when they are trying

to get away is likely to scratch or bite your guests either by accident or in a defensive manner.

Teaching your guests about cat behavior is very beneficial. Teach them basic body language so they

know when the cat is happy and a break is needed. Teach appropriate handling and keep kitty’s nails

trimmed. Tell your guests not to disturb your cat while sleeping and using the litter box. You can make it

fun for your cat and the guests by using food or a favorite toy to play and create good memories. These

positive interactions will make both the cat and the guests feel good!

     Be a good role model by demonstrating what your cat likes best. Never roughhouse with your cat in

play. Supervise every interaction at first, as you know your cat best. Watch for inappropriate behavior

from both feline and humans, and be aware of how the cat and guests feel about each other. These

steps will help your cat and your guest to enjoy a positive and safe relationship!