To ensure a smooth transition for both the new cat and any existing pets, the introduction of a new cat to your home requires careful planning and consideration. Here are some actions to take when bringing a new cat home:
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Prepare a separate space
Before bringing the new cat home, set up a separate room with all the necessities, including food, water, a litter box, a scratching post, and a cosy hiding place. The cat will initially find safety in this room. Make sure your new cat stays in his separate room for at least the first week so he can adjust to his new surroundings.
Scent swapping
Gently rub a soft cloth over the faces of your existing cat and the new cat to get them used to each other’s scents. Place one cloth in each cat’s area, allowing them to explore and become accustomed to the smells. Play with all of the cats close to the door after a few more days have passed. Activate the toys under the door for them to paw at.
Slow and gradual introduction
When you first bring your new cat home, it’s best to keep your existing cat and her separate so that you can manage their first encounter. Feed the cats initially on the contrasting sides of a closed door. This will enable them to link pleasant events, like eating, to each other’s presence. Over several days, gradually move the food bowls closer to the door.
Visual introduction
You can begin visual introductions once both cats appear at ease with the scent. To allow the cats to see each other without coming into contact, use a baby gate or a door with a crack in it. Keep an eye out for any indications of aggression or distress. Use a baby gate or screen door to physically divide the areas. If it can’t be done, try slightly opening the door of the new cat so the two cats can see each other but not go through the door.
Controlled face-to-face meetings
You can move on to supervised face-to-face meetings after the visual introductions, when both cats seem at ease. Release them. Keep a close eye on their interactions. Jealousy is a typical response. Avoid shouting, reprimanding, or punishing your current cat for hissing at the visitor. To establish positive associations, use rewards, compliments, and playtime. Separate the cats if there are any indications of aggression, then try again later.
Gradual access to the home
After successful supervised interactions, allow the new cat to explore other areas of the house while the existing cat is in a separate room. This allows the new cat to become familiar with its surroundings without feeling overwhelmed.
Gradual unsupervised time
You can gradually increase the amount of unsupervised time the cats spend together once they are at ease with one another. To avoid resource guarding, make sure the house has numerous food and water stations, litter boxes, and hiding places.
Patience and supervision
Be patient; the introduction process might take some time. Keep an eye on the cats during the transition period and give them both plenty of time for play, affection, and bonding to help them get along and ease any potential tension.
Keep in mind that every cat is different, so the timing of introductions may change. It’s critical to keep a close eye on their actions and modify the procedure in response to their responses. Consult a veterinarian or a qualified animal behaviourist for more advice if you notice persistent aggression or other alarming behaviours.
