How To Introduce Your Cat To New Furniture

1. Gradual Introduction

Cats are creatures of habit, so it's important to introduce new furniture gradually. Start by placing the new piece of furniture in a familiar area where your cat spends a lot of time. This will allow them to become accustomed to the sight and smell of the new item without feeling overwhelmed.

2. Familiar Scents

Cats rely heavily on their sense of smell, so it's important to make the new furniture smell familiar. Rub a soft cloth on your cat's bedding or use a pheromone spray on the furniture to create a sense of familiarity. This will help your cat feel more comfortable and less anxious around the new furniture.

3. Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement is key when introducing your cat to new furniture. Reward your cat with treats, praise, or playtime whenever they show interest in or interact with the new piece of furniture. This will create a positive association and encourage them to explore and use the furniture.

4. Provide Alternatives

Cats love to scratch and mark their territory. To prevent your cat from scratching or marking the new furniture, provide them with alternative options such as scratching posts or cat trees. Place these alternatives near the new furniture to redirect their attention and prevent any unwanted behavior.

5. Patience and Time

Introducing your cat to new furniture requires patience and time. Every cat is different, and some may take longer to adjust than others. Be patient with your cat and give them time to explore and get comfortable with the new furniture at their own pace. Avoid forcing them or rushing the process.

6. Consistency

Consistency is key when introducing your cat to new furniture. Once your cat starts using the new piece of furniture, make sure to maintain a consistent routine. Avoid moving the furniture around too much or making sudden changes that could disrupt their sense of familiarity and comfort.

7. Seek Professional Help

If your cat is having a particularly difficult time adjusting to the new furniture, consider seeking professional help. A veterinarian or animal behaviorist can provide guidance and advice tailored to your cat's specific needs. They may recommend additional strategies or techniques to help your cat feel more comfortable.

Remember, introducing your cat to new furniture is a gradual process that requires patience, positive reinforcement, and consistency. By following these tips, you can help your cat adjust to their new surroundings and enjoy their new furniture.

You may be familiar with some of these kitty categories: tree cats vs ground cats, explorers vs introverts, climbers vs nesters. They're not always hard-and-fast, but we all know cats do have preferences for where they spend their time (and strong ones at that).

With that in mind, we suggest spending a bit of time considering those preferences at the outset of your cat furniture journey.

Pair furniture with personality. It's a good first step in making it more likely that furniture will end up getting used. A "bush cat" that enjoys nesting cozily all day on the couch might not be that into a skyscraper-height cat tree, no matter how cool it looks.

Find furniture that has balance. Depending on personality and mood, your cat may alternate between preferences for: enclosed spaces, lookout perches, comfortable snoozing spots, unobstructed views, and human-height platforms. If you can find a piece of furniture that gives your cat options, they can gravitate towards their own preferred use.