What to Expect in the First Month After Adopting Your New Companion
- Aerial Design and Build
- Jun 29
- 3 min read
🐾 Your guide to a smooth and joyful transition with your rescue cat 🐾
Adopting a cat is a beautiful act of love - and one that can change both your life and theirs forever. As you know by now, at Let’s be S.M.A.R.T., our mission is to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome cats from the streets of Greece, many of whom have faced incredible hardship. Whether you’ve just welcomed one of our rescue cats into your life or are thinking about it, the first month together is an important time for bonding, trust-building, and creating a new rhythm.
Here’s what to expect in the first few weeks - and how to support your new feline family member through this exciting chapter.
Week 1: Letting Them Set the Pace
During the first few days, your new cat will be adjusting to unfamiliar sights, sounds, and smells. At Let’s be S.M.A.R.T., all of our cats are lovingly socialized and live freely in our cage-free sanctuary, so they’re used to companionship, comfort, and daily care. However, entering a new home is still a big change - especially for cats who are shy, sensitive, or recovering from past trauma.
What you can do:
Create a safe, quiet space where they can retreat if they feel overwhelmed (a spare room or cozy nook is perfect).
Let your cat approach you on their own terms - don’t force interaction.
Keep essentials - food, water, litter box, and bedding - nearby and accessible.
💡 Tip from our team at Let’s be S.M.A.R.T.: Many of our blind or shy cats bloom when given soft rugs, calming music, and gentle voices.
Week 2: Building Trust
By now, your cat may begin exploring more and becoming familiar with household sounds and routines. You might notice them:
Seeking out a favorite window or cozy corner
Becoming curious about you or other pets
Responding to affection or toys
Each cat is different - especially those who came from the streets or had medical conditions. Some need longer to settle in, and that’s okay. The key is consistency and calm.
🐾 Thinking of adopting a special needs cat like our sweet Ninja or Bowie? With just a little extra care and patience, they’ll repay you with lifelong love.
Week 3: Routines & Revelations
By now, you’re learning their quirks, preferences, and personality. Whether you’ve adopted a senior sweetheart, an energetic kitten, or a bonded pair, establishing routines helps everyone feel safe.
Feeding at regular times
Gentle play sessions
Introducing scratching posts and enrichment
If you have other pets, gradual introductions are key
If your cat is still hiding or unsure, don’t panic. Some of our adopted cats like Quennie or Garfield took days or even weeks to feel truly at home - but when they did, it was magical.
Week 4: Settling In
By the end of the first month, most rescue cats begin showing their true personalities - whether that’s playful, snuggly, calm, or curious. You may notice:
More interaction and cuddling
“Zoomies” or bursts of playful energy
Head bumps, purring, or following you around
This is when the real bond begins to bloom.
💛 One of our adopters said it best: “I adopted a cat, but I gained a best friend.”
How We Support You, Every Step of the Way
At Let’s be S.M.A.R.T., we don’t just send you home with a cat - we stay connected. We provide:
Guidance before, during, and after adoption, whenever it's needed.
Support for international adopters across the EU, UK, and USA.
Recommendations for integration and care.
A smooth, compassionate, and customized process.
Whether you adopt a playful kitten or a senior cat with special needs, we’ll help make it the perfect match.
Ready to Welcome Your New Best Friend?
We have over 80 incredible cats waiting for loving homes - from shy beauties like Alphie to adventurous cuddlebugs like Thomas and long-time residents who still believe in second chances. Every cat at our cage-free villa sanctuary has been:
Fully vetted, vaccinated, and socialized
Loved and known by our team
Matched with adopters based on lifestyle and personality
🐱 Ready to adopt? Visit our website to view adoptable cats and begin your journey:
Let’s be the change - let’s be S.M.A.R.T.
Adopt today—and be part of something extraordinary.
When you adopt from Let’s be S.M.A.R.T., you’re not just saving a life. You’re gaining a friend, supporting ethical rescue, and making room for more cats in need.
Follow us on social media for daily updates, adoption stories, and volunteer highlights!
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