Before opening the carrier, prepare one quiet room. A smaller, predictable space lets your cat discover the essentials without facing the whole house at once.
Set up the essentials
Offer a bed, a hiding place, a scratching surface, food, water, and a litter tray. Keep the tray away from food and water. A plain cardboard box can provide a retreat; remove tape, staples, and loose packaging first.
Let the first meeting be quiet
Place the carrier on the floor and open it. Let your cat decide when to leave. Sit nearby without reaching inside or pulling them out. Postpone introductions to visitors and other pets.
Follow your cat’s pace
Some cats explore quickly; others need longer. Avoid treating a particular day as a deadline. Watch for eating, drinking, toileting, and growing confidence. Contact your veterinarian if you are concerned about their health or they stop eating.
These setup principles follow Cats Protection’s bringing-a-cat-home guide.