How to Help a Shy or Anxious Cat Settle Into a New Home
Bringing home a new cat can be one of life’s most heartwarming moments—but for some felines, adjusting to a new environment can be pretty nerve-racking. If your cat is shy or anxious, it’s completely natural—they may need time, space and a bit of extra support to feel safe and secure in their new surroundings. At Petdirect, we get pet, and we’re here to help you nurture a peaceful transition for your furry friend. From setting up a calm environment to choosing the right cat anxiety and calming care essentials, here’s our guide to helping your shy kitty settle in with confidence.
Set Up A Dedicated Safe Space
The first step to helping your cat feel at home is giving them a space that’s truly theirs. Preferably quiet, cosy and away from high foot traffic areas, this room or corner should include:
- A soft cat bed or blanket
- A hiding spot like a covered carrier or box
- Easy access to their food and water
- A litter box placed at a comfortable distance
- Slow introductions to family members
Keep lights dim and noise to a minimum—shy cats are often startled by harsh lighting or sudden sounds. Let them come out and explore at their own pace instead of coaxing them with lots of attention right away.
Use Calming Aids To Promote Relaxation
Some cats just need a bit of extra support to ease those first-week jitters. Thankfully, there are a few tried-and-true tools to help. Products like Feliway diffusers, pheromone sprays and calming supplements for anxious cats can help promote a relaxed environment, using safe ingredients that naturally appeal to your cat's instincts.
For cats experiencing more than occasional trepidation, you might also consider options from our cat anxiety and calming care range. These are specially chosen to support emotional wellbeing during stressful times like moving house, meeting new pets or adjusting to the simplest changes in routine.
Introduce Scents And Sounds Gradually
Cats rely heavily on scent to feel at ease in new surroundings. Placing familiar-smelling items like a blanket from their old space, or even rubbing a cloth on their cheeks and using it around their room, can create comforting scent cues. Quiet environments are equally important. Try soft music or cat-calming soundtracks to muffle household noise while avoiding sudden loud sounds like vacuums or slamming doors.
You can also add an interactive, positive distraction with gentle cat toys that build confidence over time—for example, feather wands or soft plush toys are great for coaxing out timid behaviour through play.
Stick To A Calm Routine
Cats are creatures of habit, and shy ones even more so. Try to keep feeding, play and cleaning times consistent. Gently announce your presence when entering their space with soft talking or a gentle knock, and reward confident behaviour with delicious chewy cat treats.
Using an automatic cat feeder can help ensure their meals arrive on time, even when you're out. Routine equals reliability—and reliability helps your cat settle quicker.
Be Patient, Gentle And Encouraging
Every cat moves at their own pace, so try not to rush the process. Build trust slowly with gentle affection, quiet presence and occasional enticements like treats or toys. Avoid direct eye contact, and let them approach you first. Time and patience can work wonders—even the shyest kitty can become your most loyal companion.
Consider a Petdirect Autodeliver subscription so you never run out of their favourite food or calming products—and earn Airpoints and exclusive Pet Perks rewards while you're at it!
Wrapping Up: Comfort And Care Make All The Difference
Helping a shy or anxious cat settle into a new home takes time, empathy and consistency—but it’s oh-so worth it. With the right calming aids, a secure set-up, and a gentle approach, even the most timid feline can blossom into a confident companion. And with expert support and hand-selected gear from Petdirect, you’ll be confidently prepared every step of the way. Because we get pet.
Explore our full collection of calming care essentials or start a stress-free routine with Autodeliver today.