When can I let my new cat outside? (UK)

Cats Protection suggests keeping a newly adopted adult cat indoors for three to four weeks, and International Cat Care says two to three. In that time your cat spreads their scent around the house, which helps them find their way home. Some cats need longer: wait until yours is relaxed and confident indoors.

International Cat Care recommends waiting until at least a week after a kitten's first course of vaccinations, at around 13 to 14 weeks old, and says most kittens are better off supervised outside until they're six months old. Our new kitten checklist has the full timeline.

• Neutered. Female cats can get pregnant from about four months old.
• Up to date with their vaccinations.
• Microchipped, with your details up to date. In England it's the law.
• If you'd like them to wear a collar, a quick-release one with a light tag.

1. Pick a dry day and a quiet time.
2. Go out just before a meal: a hungry cat is more likely to come back when you call.
3. Stay with them, and keep the first trips short.
4. Call their name and give a favourite treat when they come to you, so coming back means a reward.
5. Build up slowly until they come and go confidently.

Cats often stay out for a few hours and come home on their own. If yours hasn't come back overnight and that's unusual for them, start our lost cat checklist straight away, searching close to home first. A QR tag on their collar means a neighbour who finds them can reach you without a trip to the vet.