Introducing a New Cat

Bringing a new kitten or cat into the home where there is already a resident cat does not have to be problematic. Patience is the key to success as time for adjustment can vary between a few days to a couple of months. In most cases it will be well worth the effort. Some basic steps and precautions will enhance the success.

Why Two?

For most single cats that are left at home while their owners work it often makes sense to have a companion for your cat. Contrary to popular belief domestic cats are social animals that enjoy contact and interaction with humans. If left alone for periods of time they can become bored, which in turn, can initiate unwanted behaviors. Clawing furniture and rugs, litterbox issues and aggressive attention seeking behaviors, such as nipping and biting often are the result of social isolation. Cats are extremely sensitive to changes in their environment. The addition of another cat may actually help to reduce stress during major lifestyle changes, which can include a new work schedule, moving to a new home, or disruptive going-ons in the home. Another cat may also help with a overly demanding cat seeking attention. A majority of cat owners are quilty of not providing enough interaction and playtime with their cat. They talk of all the toys the cat has laying around but cats want owner interaction and toys that "move". A new companion will often provide that outlet for physical activity and mental stimulation.

First Things First Your cat or kitten should be scheduled with a veterinarian. A thorough physical, update on shots, spaying or neutering, and a Feline Leukemia test will help insure the future health all your pets. A cat adopted from the Humane Society provides all of these before you take your new pet home. Be sure you have an extra litter pan and food and water bowls. Picking Out Your New Pet Every cat has its own temperament and personality traits which make them truly unique. While there are no rules as to what kind of cat would be best, some general guidelines may be helpful: A very active or assertive cat my not be the best choice if your present cat is shy or timid as it may cause the cat to retreat more. But a playful, social cat may help to draw yours out. A calm, relaxed cat may have a "settling" effect on your highly active cat. A new cat does not have to be a young kitten. Stable, adult cats can be a great option. An older cat may often be annoyed and uncomfortable with a kitten's desire to constantly play. Sex is not much of a factor since they are spayed or neutered.

Getting to Know You... A new cat should be placed in a separate room for at least a day to settle down and adjust. The next step would be to have your resident cat in one room and let the other cat investigate the house for at least an hour You will have to judge from the new pet's personality when this time is right. A nervous or timid cat may be too stressed and possibly find a hiding place. When he or she is at ease with you coming in and out of "their room" and greets you then the cat should be comfortable with exploring other areas of the home. Place the new cat in his area and your resident cat can then go around and get used to this new cat's smells. Bringing unfamiliar cats together should be done slowly for short periods of time. A few minutes with the new cat in a carrier may be beneficial where they both can see each other. This can be done a few times before the first meetings without a cage or carrier. These first meetings should be last between 15 - 20 minutes the first few times. There will likely be hissing, growling or high pitch, loud vocalization.  There may be challenge posturing (arched back) or defensive posturing (crouching, flattening of ears). This is normal behavior which will decrease with time. You are to supervise but not interject yourself into this process . An occasional "good kitties" is appropriate right at the time they are observing but not making aggressive postures or sounds. Do not put them in a room together with a closed door. Again be patient with this process.

Extending the Time Together Cats are sensitive to voice tones and body language and will react to your feelings or apprehension. As best as possible act neutral and calm as though they have both been a part of the household for months. As they become more familiar with each other you will be able to determine when they can be left alone unsupervised. Both cats will need to establish household rights. If you continually step in, the process may take longer.

The Rare Cat Fight It is very rare that you would have a real cat fight between two altered cats. If it would happen it would be in the beginning. If this happens do not try and separate yourself. Distract the cats with a loud noise (a empty can with coins thrown nearby) or a pitcher of water. If your cat immediately afterwards shows aggression to you it is called displaced aggression and caused by a high state of arousal. Give your cat time to settle down before interacting. Many people say that their cat does not or would not get along with other cats. This may be due to observations of their cat's responses when observing another cat outside or meeting a friend or neighbor's cat. With patience and supervision almost all cats accept a new pet in the household. There are exceptions to this and you may determine that your cat really does want to be an only cat. If so remember that he or she still needs playtime and mental stimulation provided by you.