Cats are highly territorial, as we all know. However, people would often tell me, over and over again, that they could just put two cats in the same room, and they’d work it out. But it’s Russian cat roulette. Sometimes they can work out who lost an eyeball. However, they will never be friends.
Bringing a new cat home could trigger a territorial panic response in your cat. This can often lead to war. Following this tried-and-true step-by-step recipe, you can do your best for your cats.
Consider the needs and preferences of your cat.
How much energy do they have
Adopting a cat with the same energy and age is a great idea. While it may seem as though a 10-year-old cat would appreciate the excitement that a kitten brings to the home, it is more likely that an older cat will be bothered by a kitten who plays all day.
What are their experiences with other cats?
If your cat is not used to being with other cats since they were kittens, it might take some time for them to become comfortable with a new cat. As this will make the transition more accessible, having your new cat socialize with other cats is a good idea.
Slow down.
The process of introducing cats should take time. It is best to take it slow so the cat can be submitted successfully. “Slow” refers to the cat that is showing signs of stress. This could be the new cat and the cat already living with them. The cat decides how long it takes to introduce the new cat. It could take days, weeks, or even months. Although it is tempting to rush this process, patience will make the whole household (humans and cats) happier in the long term. Here’s how to do a successful introduction:
Separate the cats
During the introduction phase, keeping your new cat in one room is essential. This is for the new kitten (so they can settle into their new home) and for the resident cat (so he can adjust to the latest addition to the house). If you want everyone to be successful, the new cat mustn’t be allowed to spend too much time with the resident cat. This may not always be possible in small apartments. If your cat prefers to sleep in the bedroom of your home, then your new cat should be in another room.
During this separation period, you can also switch cats’ bedding to familiarize them with each other’s scents. Additionally, cats should be allowed to play together every day. This will help reduce stress.
Don’t move forward until the resident cat and the new kitten are calm and relaxed. The new cat should confidently explore their room and show social behavior to the other cats. The resident cat should act the same as before the arrival of a new cat. When you reach this point, do not move on.
Encourage positive associations
This stage is when you have two or several cats curious about each other based on their smell. They may also be fearful and stressed by being around the other cat. This is a step that aims to teach cats positive associations and to make them see other cats.
First, determine what type of food (other than their regular food) each cat prefers. You can only give them this treat with the other cat. You can provide your cat with playtime or grooming if they enjoy it.
These cats shouldn’t be interacted with at this point. The cats should be kept apart by a strong, tall, sturdy baby fence (at least 36 inches) placed in the cat’s new room. The cats shouldn’t be forced to interact with each other. Playing with or rewarding your cat is possible, but the cats will determine the pace.
EXAMPLE 1
Cover the baby gate with a sheet to keep the cats’ eyes from seeing each other. Take the sheet off for a few seconds until the cats can see each other. Once they do, you can say “Happy cats!” or any other positive words to them. After that, cover the baby gate using the sheet. This is more difficult if there’s another person involved, but you can do it with one person. Repeat the exercise five to ten more times each day. (It only takes a few moments each time. This is where the key to success lies in keeping interactions brief and positive. Do not wait until one of the cats shows signs of stress. Instead, make sure to end the interaction on an upbeat note.
Final tips
If you bring a new cat into your home with several cats, it is best to introduce each cat one by one. After each cat has met the new kitten, you can let them all get to know one another.
Happier cats will be more comfortable. Check out the layout of your home. Your cats will need to have plenty of hiding places. Some cats prefer to be perched on high shelves or cat condo perches. Frightened cats, however, will hide behind or under objects. So that your cats feel free to access the litter and water boxes, place them out in the open. Make sure you have at least one additional litter box and a litterbox for each cat.