Q.  My friends are moving overseas and we have taken in their two year old cat. He has with him his familiar blanket, cat feeding and drinking tray and litterbox. They are also staying with us for a week before they leave. The two issues are that we have a toddler and a baby, and my friends have a six year old. Also we co- share a property with family who have a fourteen year old cat who spends most of his time inside, and he has previously lived with another cat before, different houses but same large property. He so far is hiding behind the couch, and runs around at night meowing. He does purr when picked up and stroked, and has nibbled at his food. How can I make him as comfortable as possible, and get used to the change?

A.  It would be great if you could set up a “safe haven” for this new cat. Put his litterbox, food and water, and blanket in a room that he can stay in by himself. Even a bathroom would work. Cats are very territorial and he’s probably overwhelmed by the new household. After several days in the safe haven you could allow him out during the day to explore, and close him back up at night so he’s not running around keeping everyone awake. If you leave the door to his safe haven open during the day, he will always be able to run back in if he gets stressed. It may take a few months for him to adjust, and then you can move his items to a more convenient location!