Oct 07, 2026

Whether fostering or adopting, bringing a dog or cat home from a shelter is a beautiful beginning, but for your new pet it can also be a lot to process.

A dog who was playful and affectionate with staff may be quiet and withdrawn in its new home. A cat who seemed curious in the shelter may spend the first several days hiding under the bed. Sometimes, an animal who appears confident suddenly seems nervous, unsure, or even a little overwhelmed.

This doesn’t necessarily mean something is wrong, it may simply mean your new pet needs time.

One helpful way to understand this adjustment period is the 3-3-3 rule: 3 days to decompress, 3 weeks to begin settling into a routine, and 3 months to truly feel at home. However, it’s important to recognize that every animal is different, and the 3-3-3 rule should be used as a guideline — not a deadline. Some pets may reach these milestones sooner than predicted, while some may need additional time, love and patience to get there.

What Does the 3-3-3 Rule Look Like?

Banana - Helping Pets Adjust to New Homes: the 3-3-3 Rule
Banana, current APA! foster

During the first 3 days, you may notice behaviors like:

  • Hiding

  • Pacing

  • Decreased appetite

  • Hyper-vigilance

After 3 weeks, your pet may begin to exhibit:

After 3 months, you pet will begin to feel at home, and:

  • Consistently follow routines

  • Better comply with house rules and commands

  • Have increased confidence

  • Display deepened bonding

Meeting your pet where they are in the process of adjusting can make a world of difference. It’s also important to know about the resources available to you while your new pet adjusts. Austin Pets Alive! offers lifetime behavioral support and links to local food assistance to better support pets and their companions through their journey.

Source: Austin Pets Alive