K-9 Companion Pet Services

INTRODUCING YOUR NEW CAT TO YOUR OTHER CATS

Cats that live in the same house may not become the best of friends, but usually learn to at least tolerate each other with a minimum of fighting. Commit today to taking the time it takes to properly introduce your cats to each other in order to prevent permanent fearful and aggressive problems from developing.   Some cats can be best friends in as little as 30 minutes, but don’t be anxious to “test” out how the cats will do together without first providing a proper introduction.  First impressions can be lasting impressions when it comes to cats

The range of relationships that can develop when a new cat is introduced to a household can run the full spectrum from best friends who share and do everything together to all out war. Cats are territorial, and some are clearly more territorial than others, so the time required for the introduction process varies greatly depending on the cats involved.

Introducing cats who are strangers to each other should be done in a gradual systematic fashion in which pleasurable experiences (food/attention/play) are associated with the other cat(s). The key is having patience with the process and knowing that the process takes time to accomplish and you may be required to repeat steps in the introduction process more than once.

Throughout the introduction process, speak quietly and calmly to the cats and move slowly. Praise them gently when they are tolerant of each other’s presence, using words, toys and food as positive reinforcement. Never scold or use harsh or loud tones when they are together, and avoid anything that may associate unpleasantness with being near each other. Give special attention to the resident cat(s) to reassure them of your loyalty and love and help minimize jealousy. Give the new cat loving attention only during the resident cat’s absence until such time as they become true friends.

Introducing A New Cat to Other Cats

1. It is often helpful to wash both your cat(s) and the new cat in the same shampoo so that they smell similar to each other (ok the idea of washing a cat sounds rather detrimental to me, but I read that on the internet). Also, applying a spray of Feliway to each cat & his/her bedding daily is also reported to help.  Some of my clients have feliway air fresheners to help prevent spraying.  It is cat pheromones – it’s sole purpose it to provide a calming feeling to cats and it helps with many different cat “issues”.
2. Add some scratching posts or cardboard with some cat nip to relax the cats and keep them entertained.  It’ll also help share their scent.
3. Confine the new cat to one room with its litter box, food, water, and a bed. Feed the present cats and the newcomer near either side of the door to this room. Don’t put the food so close to the door that the cats are too upset by each other to eat. This will help start things out right by associating something enjoyable (eating) with each other’s presence. Gradually move the dishes closer to the door until the cats can eat calmly directly on either side. Feed the cats in each area with wet food twice daily, and play with the cats in each area at least twice daily. Setting up a schedule of feeding treats of wet food and a play time routine minimizes anxiety and makes the cats feel more secure.
4. Playtime is a special time where you can cement a bond between you and the new cat. Many experts suggest using a feline flyer, fishing rod toy, toy on a string, or other similar toy which allows the new cat(s) to maintain a distance while getting to know you and, once the cats are introduced, also distracts their attention from each other while maintaining a distance from each other.  I’ve noticed that more playtime reduces most cat issues and is a great invitation for cats to get to know each other at a fun time.  I recommend trying lots of different toys – some cats are partial to feathers, others to big stuffed fluffy things, others to things that roll quickly, some to laser lights, and some just to fuzzy mice.   Usually a cat that shows little interest in one toy just hasn’t found the right toy yet.
5. Next, use two door stops to prop open the door just enough to allow the cats to see and smell each other.  Or use a tower of baby gate, plexiglass, or a large cage.  Repeat the whole process above.
6. Switch sleeping blankets between the new cat and resident cats after a couple of days so they have a chance to become accustomed to each other’s scent. Also put the scented blankets underneath the food dishes.
7. Once the new cat is using its box and eating regularly while confined, let it have free time in the house while confining the other cats. This switch provides another way for the cats to experience each other’s scent without a face to face meeting. It also allows the newcomer to become familiar with its new surroundings without being frightened by other animals.
8. Avoid any interactions between the cats which result in either fearful or aggressive behavior. If these responses are allowed to become habit, they can be difficult to change. It’s better to introduce the animals to each other so gradually that neither cat becomes afraid or aggressive. You can expect mild forms of these behaviors, but don’t give them the opportunity to intensify. If either cat becomes fearful or aggressive, separate the cats ( throw a blanket over each cat, wrapping the blanket around the cat before picking him up if necessary ) and start the process over.
9. Continue good habits even after the cats are getting along.  Play regularly, and give each cat individual attention.  Trim nails regularly to avoid accidental scratches.  Clean the litter boxes more frequently than before, and address any accidents immediately to avoid permanent new bad behaviors.  Make sure that none of the cats is being “ambushed” by another while trying to use the box.  If the cats are picky about their litters be sure to provide the right type for each (clay vs scoopable vs crystals, etc).  Provide cat grass & catnip periodically.
10. Successful cohabitations require patience and time. Don’t push or expect things to be perfect overnight!   Be patient and remember your cats will pick up on your patience and positive attitude.

One Response to “Introducing Your New Cat or Kitten to Your Other Cats”