At the time of year when a new pet may arrive under the tree as a gift, we must give special consideration to the habits and concerns of cats. 

A cat taken to a new home environment may try desperately to find his old home because of a feeling of being kidnapped or “cat-napped.”

When we bring a new kitten home or when we take our old pet with us as we move to a new home, we need to make sure hat the cat doesn’t have the opportunity to run off in search of his old abode.

This means that we may have to keep the cat confined to the house or garage for a couple of weeks while he gets used to his new surroundings. 

During this time, we should give the cat all the attention that time will allow and play with him in all of the areas accessible to him.

This is important while he gets over his new fears. When we let the cat outside, we should be there to watch him for the first few times in order to limit his roaming.

If we take these precautions, our cat is more likely to come home from his first big day out.

(Dr. Fred Conkel is the veterinarian at Westgate Animal Clinic.)