iKuddle

How to introduce a new cat to the resident cat?

As cat lovers, you may be considering adding a new feline friend to your home. By nature, cats are solitary, territorial sovereignty animals. They may not become the best buddies and curl up together, but will respect each other’s space. Here are some methods to help you smoothly introduce a new cat to the resident cat.

How to choose an ideal new cat?

Age: New kittens and resident kittens younger than 12 weeks require more patience to help her face another cat as she begins to build trust with her human caregiver. Elderly cats older than 8 are easily anxious and depressed, so it is not recommended to bring a new cat into the house.

Personality: Similar personalities will avoid aggression between cats. If your resident cat is rambunctious and playful, getting a very laid-back, quiet, and shy cat is probably not wise.

Gender: Intact males are particularly prone to aggressive behaviors. Neutered cats are less competitive, territorial, and possessive. They also get along with other cats more easily. 

 

Step one: Isolate the new cat in a separate room

A small and confined area will help the new cat feel safe and comfortable with the new environment. Avoid aggression between cats by providing identical scratching posts, toys, food bowls, beds, and Smart Litter Boxes. For the first week, playing paws under the door will help the resident cat get used to the new cat’s smell.

 

Step two: Maintain routines with the resident cat

If the resident cat grows up alone, she may lack feline social skills, and may tend to prefer consistency over change. She may react strongly due to the fear of the unknown and the disruptions to her routine.

 

Step three: Start face-to-face interaction

After the first week, try feeding them each a special treat on either side of the door. As they begin to warm up to each other, the cats will feel less threatened by each other’s presence and interact in a friendly manner.