12 Top Adopted Stray Cat Behavior & Tips

Do you have an adopted stray cat or are you considering adopting one? As a cat parent myself, I understand that understanding their behavior can be challenging.

However, these furry friends have unique personalities and quirks that make them even more lovable.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the fascinating behavior of adopted stray cats and how to best care for them. Let’s learn more about our four-legged family members together!

Adopted Stray Cat Behavior

The behavior of an adopted stray cat can vary, as individual cats may have different backgrounds and experiences. Some may be cautious and shy at first, while others may be more outgoing and friendly.

It is important to give the cat time and space to adjust to their new environment and provide them with a consistent routine and positive reinforcement to build trust.

Regular veterinary check-ups and proper nutrition can also help ensure that the cat stays healthy and happy in their new home.

Let’s break it down…

The following are some of the most common adopted stray cat behavior you should know:

1. Inappropriate Scratching of Furniture

Stray cats may be unfamiliar with scratching posts or acceptable scratching surfaces, causing furniture damage. Provide a range of scratching choices throughout your home to combat this activity.

Vertical and horizontal scratching posts, cat trees, and sisal mats are examples of these. Encourage your cat to use these alternatives by placing them near areas where they frequently scratch.

When they demonstrate inappropriate scratching behavior, redirect their attention by engaging them positively with toys or food.

2. Skittishness

Stray cats may exhibit skittish behavior as a result of earlier traumatic experiences. Create a quiet environment by eliminating loud noises and unexpected movements to assist them overcome their fear.

Introduce good interactions gradually by delivering incentives, speaking softly and soothingly, and providing gentle petting.

Allow them plenty of time to adjust to your presence and develop trust. Allow them to initiate contact and refrain from making unexpected moves that might shock them.

3. Hiding and Shyness

Many adopted stray cats are insecure in their new surroundings, which causes them to hide or be shy. This is a normal protective strategy as they acclimate to their new surroundings.

Create a safe and quiet location for your cat, such as a warm room or a designated area with hiding areas like cardboard boxes or a cat tree, to address this tendency.

Allow them to emerge from hiding at their own speed, and avoid interfering with them.

Introduce yourself gradually by sitting quietly nearby, speaking softly, and offering treats or a favorite toy. Patience and polite interactions will aid in the development of trust over time.

4. Overeating and Food Anxiety

Scarcity may have caused food anxiety and overeating in stray cats. To offer structure and minimize anxiety, it is critical to maintain a consistent eating schedule.

If you’re unsure, measure their food servings based on their dietary demands and consult with a veterinarian.

Using puzzle feeders or interactive toys can stimulate their hunting instincts and reduce their eating pace, stopping them from devouring their food too quickly.

5. Aggression and Fear

Fear and hostility might emerge from previous contact with a stray cat, and it’s critical to treat these behaviors with prudence. It is critical to create a quiet and low-stress environment.

Maintain a routine and avoid startling your cat with abrupt movements or loud noises. Allow them space and time to calm down if they are aggressive.

Never physically rebuke or punish them, as this can exacerbate their conduct. Consult a competent animal behaviorist who can assess the problem and advise you on how to properly treat and manage aggression.

6. Litter Box Issues

Initially, stray cats may struggle with utilizing a litter box. It is critical to make the litter box an inviting and easily accessible space. Maintain hygiene by keeping it clean and scooping it on a regular basis.

Experiment with various types of litter to determine your cat’s preferences—some cats love clumping litter, while others prefer non-clumping or unscented choices.

Place the litter box away from their food and drink dishes in a calm place. When your cat uses the litter box appropriately, encourage positive behavior by rewarding them with treats or praise.

7. Excessive Meowing

Stray cats may communicate by meowing excessively, especially if they are looking for food or company on the streets.

Spending quality time with them and engaging them in interactive play sessions can help alleviate their demand for attention.

To keep them mentally busy, use environmental enrichment such as puzzle toys or interactive feeders.

Regular playing and mental stimulation might help to prevent excessive vocalization and strengthen your bond with your cat.

8. Nighttime Activity

Stray cats may have adapted to being active at night due to their prior lifestyle.

Establish a daytime play pattern to tire them out and foster a calm sleep.

Use toys that replicate hunting behavior to engage your cat in vigorous play sessions. To signify bedtime, dim the lights and create a comfy resting place.

Avoid promoting nighttime activities by avoiding attention-seeking actions during the night, as giving in may encourage the habit to persist.

9. Rough Play

Stray cats who haven’t experienced much socializing may indulge in harsh play or play biting. It is critical to set boundaries and redirect their play behavior correctly.

Use toys that allow them to focus their energy and predatory tendencies without resorting to rough play. Avoid playing with your hands or feet as this can foster aggressive behavior.

If your cat becomes too harsh during play, switch their focus to a toy and exit the game. They will eventually learn acceptable play conduct.

10. Territorial Marking

Stray cats may spray or urinate beyond the litter box to indicate their territory, especially if they feel threatened or uneasy.

Consider having your cat neutered or spayed to address this habit since it can greatly minimize territorial marking.

To remove odors and deter re-marking, carefully clean afflicted areas using an enzymatic cleaner.

Provide many litter boxes in various locations throughout your home, as some cats prefer to eliminate them in distinct regions.

Additionally, by establishing a relaxing environment, pheromone sprays or diffusers can assist lessen marking activity.

11. Excessive Grooming or Hair Pulling

Due to fear or stress, some stray cats develop excessive grooming behaviors or even resort to hair pulling.

To combat this tendency, use interactive toys and play sessions to promote mental and physical stimulation.

Engage your cat in activities that divert his or her attention and energy away from excessive grooming.

Create a peaceful environment with hiding places where kids can go when they are feeling anxious.

Consult a veterinarian or animal behaviorist if necessary to address underlying concerns that are causing excessive grooming or hair pulling.

12. Frequent Hissing or Growling

When a stray cat feels threatened or uncomfortable, he may hiss or growl. Try not to take your cat’s hissing or growling personally.

Instead, give them room and avoid making unexpected movements.

Sit or recline comfortably on the floor and indulge in quiet activities such as reading or using a laptop.

This will demonstrate to the cat that you are not a threat and will assist them in becoming acquainted with your presence.

Allow them to approach you when they are ready by offering goodies or toys from a distance.

How to help an adopted stray cat adjust to a new home

Here are some common ways to help an adopted stray cat adjust to a new home:

1. Provide a safe and comfortable space: Cats love soft and cozy places to sleep and hang out. Make sure your cat has a comfortable bed, and consider providing a cat tree or scratching post.
2. Give them time: It can take time for a cat to adjust to a new home. Be patient and give your cat time and space to explore and get comfortable.
3. Provide playtime and toys: Playing with your cat will help them burn off energy and build a positive relationship with you. Provide toys that are safe for cats, such as wand toys or stuffed mice.
4. Establish a routine: Cats thrive on routine. Feed your cat at the same time each day, and establish a regular playtime or grooming schedule.
5. Keep them indoors: If you’ve adopted a stray cat that has spent most of its life outside, it’s best to keep them indoors to prevent them from wandering away and getting lost.
6. Provide a scratching post: Cats love to scratch, so it’s important to provide them with a scratching post or pad to help keep their claws healthy and occupied.
7. Make litter box training a priority: One of the first things to do when bringing home a new cat is to show them where the litter box is located.
8. Gradually introduce your cat to other pets: If you have other pets, it’s important to introduce them slowly and carefully to avoid any conflicts or aggression.
9. Make sure they have a name tag: Always make sure your cat has some form of identification in case they get lost. A name tag with your contact information is a good option.

Learn more about the signs your new cat is adjusting.

Related questions

I just adopted a stray cat. How can I help them adjust to their new home?

Congratulations on your new feline family member! It’s important to give your cat time to acclimate to their new surroundings. Start by creating a safe and comfortable space for them, complete with food, water, a litter box, and a cozy bed. Allow them to explore the house on their own terms and avoid overwhelming them with too much attention or activity. With time and patience, they will gradually become more comfortable and confident in their new home.

My newly adopted stray cat is very skittish and hides all the time. What should I do?

It’s not uncommon for stray cats to be nervous or fearful in new environments, especially if they have experienced trauma or difficult living conditions in the past. Give your cat plenty of space, a quiet place to retreat to, and regular meals. Try to establish a routine so that they can feel more secure and predict what will happen next. Consider using pheromone sprays or diffusers to create a calming environment, and speak in a soft, soothing tone when interacting with your cat to help build trust.

My newly adopted stray cat keeps scratching my furniture. How can I stop this behavior?

Scratching is a natural behavior for cats, and providing them with appropriate outlets for this behavior is important. Invest in a scratching post or pad and place it in an easily accessible location. Encourage your cat to use it by offering treats or toys near the post, and use positive reinforcement when they do use it. Cover any furniture that you don’t want to be scratched with a protective cover or double-sided tape, and consider trimming your cat’s nails regularly.

Learn more about dealing with a mean cat.

My newly adopted stray cat is not eating or drinking. What should I do?

Cats can be picky eaters, but a sudden loss of appetite or thirst can be a sign of a more serious issue. If your cat has not eaten or drank anything for more than 24 hours, it’s important to consult with a veterinarian. In the meantime, try offering a variety of different foods and water sources to see if your cat responds to something specific. Make sure their food and water bowls are clean and accessible, and consider adding some moisture to their food if they seem to prefer wet over dry food.

My newly adopted stray cat is constantly meowing and seeking attention. What should I do?

Cats vocalize for a variety of reasons, from seeking attention to expressing discomfort or stress. If your new cat is meowing a lot, it could be a sign that they are feeling anxious or uncertain in their new surroundings. Spend some time with your cat and give them plenty of attention and affection to reassure them. Make sure all of their basic needs are met, including food, water, a clean litter box, and a comfortable place to rest. If the meowing persists, it may be helpful to consult with a veterinarian or a cat behavior specialist for additional guidance.

Learn more about dealing with behavior concerns in cats.

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

Litter box issues can be frustrating for cat owners, but they are often related to the cat’s adjustment to their new environment or an issue with the litter box itself. Make sure you have provided your cat with a clean and accessible litter box in a private and quiet location. Use a litter that your cat is familiar with or try different types of litter to see which one they prefer. If the problem persists, consult with a veterinarian to rule out any underlying health issues and consider working with a cat behavior specialist to address any behavioral concerns.

Learn more about dealing with abandoned cat behaviors.

Conclusion

In conclusion, adopting a stray cat can be a truly rewarding experience. While every cat is unique and may come with their own set of challenges, with patience, love, and proper care, they can become loyal, affectionate, and loving companions.

By giving these cats a second chance at life, not only are you providing them with a loving home, but you are also creating a lasting bond that will bring joy and happiness to your life for years to come.

So if you’re considering adopting a stray cat, don’t hesitate – the love and companionship they offer is well worth it!