Here is how to strengthen the bond between you and your cat: For adopted cats, these are especially important to keep in mind!

It doesn't matter what breed or gender your cat is, or even its personality, when it comes to trust. This is a necessity for every healthy and intimate cat-human relationship. Your cat may be fearful, bold or even aggressive, but it is your task and responsibility to take the first steps so that your faith in each other can forge you together.

We like to think of this process as the story of The Little Prince and The Fox. At the beginning of their journey together, The Fox said to The Little Prince: “To me, you are still nothing more than a little boy who is just like a hundred thousand other little boys. And I have no need of you. And you, on your part, have no need of me. To you I am nothing more than a fox like a hundred thousand other foxes. But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world.”

Respect your pet’s personal space

Your new cat will need some time to adjust to its new environment. Some have more than others. Let your cat roam freely in the apartment to discover places that are calm and safe for him. Make it a general rule in the household later on. Cats are independent creatures. Trust them, they will always tell you when they want your company and when they feel more comfortable alone.

Watch his body language

Just as he interprets your moods and emotions through your body language, you must do the same if you want to get to know him. If he is sitting far away from you, it means that he does not want your company right now. If he pokes his head, you should pet him, which will be followed by a guaranteed purr. Does it swing its tail casually or does it rather flick it? You immediately feel that your cat is balanced in the first case, and tense in the second, right? It’s not complicated, trust yourself!

Let him approach you

Have you ever noticed that cats always show their attention to non-cat people for some strange reason? If you know the intelligence of these silky-haired predators, there is nothing special about this. They like to be in control, so it’s understandable that they gravitate to people who give them space and let them make the first move. If you sit back and mind your own business, your success is guaranteed! Doing nothing has never had such a satisfying result.

Know the limits of physical contact

We also know cats who immediately curl up and offer their bellies for a little scratching and petting, but also those who do well without being petted, and it’s enough for them to simply be near us. Whichever type your pet falls into, try to put their needs first.

When you stroke him, notice where the purring increases. Do not hesitate to favor that special point and neglect the one where the reaction is less enthusiastic.

Be predictable

They are particularly alert creatures, even if they sleep most of the day. As much as possible, try to avoid loud noises and sudden movements. This is especially important when it comes to sensitive, shy kittens. Of course, we are not saying that you should tiptoe around your own home, but a little extra attention will certainly not cause any difficulties.

Speaking of predictability, it’s also worth mentioning the importance of routine. Your cat should always be fed at the same time, but it’s also worth timing the grooming too.

Use positive reinforcement

Not only does it work for dogs, but cats are also highly susceptible to it. Consistent positive reinforcement is not only great for building confidence, but if you feel like it, you can even learn different tricks and command words. The point is to make sure that you both enjoy the process equally, and that there is no force in learning together.

Play is also very important in the lives of indoor tigers. Feel free to experiment! Maybe it’s chasing the laser dot, maybe it’s the feather wand, but it’s also possible that the catnip-filled mouse figure will be his favorite.