ChecklistExample answer
How long until a new cat settles in?
Give them time (rough guide): Many cats loosely follow '3 days to decompress, 3 weeks to settle, 3 months to feel at home' — but this is a shelter rule of thumb, not a clinical timeline. Some need longer, some adjust faster.Estimate
Your plan
First days: Start in one quiet 'base camp' room with food, water, litter, and hiding spots. Let them come to you; expand access as confidence grows. Keep routines calm and predictable.Estimate
Watch for these
- Watch eating, drinking, and litter use from day one — a new cat not eating, or not passing urine/stool, is a medical concern, not just shyness.
Monitor with red flags. Watch for the specific red flags listed and escalate if they appear.
How this was decided
- 3-3-3 as a heuristic, not a clinical rule (EV-005)
Sources
- ASPCA (ASPCApro professional resource) — T2/T4 sheltering authority, NOT a clinical body · Tier 2 · verified 2026-07-17 · commercial bias noted · source conflict noted
Real questions cat owners ask
- Very shy new cat - under the bed and won't come out
- Help, Have New Cat For 3 Months, Won't Leave Bedroom/under Bed
- Newly adopted cat only comes out at night and is very shy
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