Imagine yourself in your new cat's position: suddenly picked up and relocated to a completely foreign environment, with people smiling at you, talking to you and arguing over who gets to hold you. There are strange smells and unknown surroundings. In fact, there's nothing familiar anywhere. Wouldn't you also hesitate to accept any food offered to you?

That is how this new family member feels. When you first set your new pet down in her new home, she may experience fear, curiosity and stress. She will walk cautiously, smelling and examining every inch of new territory while resisting the urge to run to the darkest corner to hide. If you try not to scare her further and leave her alone to discover things for herself, she may soon pick up the scent of her favorite food waiting for her in her new feeding area.

You've prepared for your new cat's arrival, cat-proofed the house and surroundings thoroughly, gathered all the essential supplies and, most importantly, done your homework on her favorite food. Just as when you invite friends and relatives over for dinner for the first time, you want to show that you aim to make your guest comfortable by serving food you know she likes. How will you know? Ask her previous owners or caretakers - they will know what particular foods your new cat likes.

Have the feeding area already prepared, in a quiet place without too much activity. If she finds it on her own, with fresh water and her favorite treats waiting for her, she will understand that this is the eating area - her eating area. She may not eat much at first, but be patient. The stress of new surroundings and strangers all around may make her lose her appetite, so you must give her the privacy and quiet she needs during her first feedings.

Your cat will continue to familiarize herself with her new home, returning to her dish periodically. During this transition period, it is a good idea to have food available all the time. Serve a reasonable amount, adjusting as appropriate according to your cat's appetite, age and activity level. When you notice your cat has regained a normal appetite, you can gradually work up to a feeding schedule that is both convenient for you and appropriate for your cat's proper nutrition.

You may want your cat to try other foods that you know will be good for her. Gradually introduce new meals when your cat is eating well and appears comfortable. When introducing a new food, mix it with the old food and, over time, phase out the old food so your cat is only eating the new food.

Speaking of trust, as you get to know each other and start to developing a bond, you can try giving her some cat treats by hand. She may be cautious at first, suspicious of your intentions, but if you gently prod her to eat something she is familiar with, she will soon learn that you can be a friend after all.

In no time, your new cat will learn where to eat and when she will be fed, and adjust to new diets. Before you know it, she may be the one reminding you when it's time for dinner.