When a cat enters a new environment, especially after a stressful transition into foster care, it needs time, space, and a sense of security to adjust. Even the most confident cats can become shy, fearful, or withdrawn in a new home. That’s why we recommend giving your foster cat at least two weeks to settle in before expecting cuddles, playtime, or social introductions.

Why This Period Matters
To your new foster cat, everything is unfamiliar: the smells, the sounds, the people, the routines. Even if they were affectionate or playful in a shelter or previous home, they may need time to decompress. Without this adjustment period, cats may hide, hiss, stop eating, or try to escape all signs that they’re overwhelmed, not “bad” or unloving.

Instead of trying to win them over right away, focus on helping them feel safe. A slow, steady approach allows their true personality to emerge when they’re ready.

What This Period Looks Like

• Start them in a small, quiet room with a litter box, food, water, a cozy bed, and a hiding spot.

• Limit interactions at first—sit quietly in the room and let them come to you.

• Keep the environment calm: no loud noises, roughhousing, or introductions to other pets yet.

• Offer high-value treats, slow blinks, and a soothing voice to build trust.

• Watch for subtle signs of curiosity: peeking out, sniffing your hand, grooming in your presence.

Behavior During This Time
Hiding, hissing, or freezing are normal reactions for cats in a new space. It doesn’t mean they won’t adjust, it just means they need time. Like dogs, cats communicate through body language. They’re not misbehaving, they’re managing uncertainty the only way they know how.

Think of your foster cat like a person dropped into a foreign country with a new language, smells, and customs. They need time to observe, understand, and trust before they feel at home.

By respecting their pace and offering a stable, low-stress environment, you’ll set your foster cat up to thrive—and give them the best chance at a successful adoption.

When a dog first enters your home, especially as a foster, it’s experiencing a whirlwind of new sights, smells, sounds, and people. Everything is unfamiliar, and it can be overwhelming. That’s why we recommend a two-week adjustment period to help your foster dog settle in safely and calmly.

During this time, your goal isn’t to show them the world—it’s to help them feel safe in it.

Why This Period Matters
Adult dogs coming into a new environment are like puppies again: unsure, sensitive, and trying to understand their place. If we immediately introduce them to every friend, family member, dog, and experience, we can unintentionally cause stress or anxiety. We may look unpredictable or overwhelming, certainly not like a calm, trustworthy leader.

Instead of coddling or overexposing your new foster, allow them space to watch, listen, smell, and observe. They’re getting to know you, your home, and your routine. Keep things quiet and predictable. Let them come to you when they’re ready.

What This Period Looks Like

• Keep your foster in a calm, secure area of the home.

• Limit introductions to new people or pets.

• Use a consistent routine for feeding, potty breaks, and walks.

• Avoid crowded spaces, dog parks, or chaotic environments.

• Focus on building trust—gentle praise, treats, and patience go a long way.

Behavior During This Time
Dogs communicate through body language and behavior, not words. If your foster growls, paces, hides, or becomes nippy, it may be fear or confusion, not defiance. They’re simply saying, “I don’t understand what’s happening.” These behaviors often improve naturally as the dog settles in and begins to feel secure.

Think of your foster like a newborn baby—you wouldn’t pass a newborn from person to person. Instead, you’d focus on rest, routine, and bonding. Your foster dog needs the same.

With time, patience, and a peaceful environment, your foster dog can begin to heal, build confidence, and show you their true personality.