What is the best way to introduce a new cat or kitten to your household? Patience is the key. Cats are territorial creatures, and bringing in a new addition to the home can be a stressful experience for your pets not to mention yourself - if not handled correctly. I am positive that if you want to experience a peaceful and rewarding relationship between your new and existing pets it requires patience, hard work, and time. A good time frame to expect for this introduction normally takes about two weeks before the pets feel comfortable with each other. Under special circumstances it may take longer for this process. Remember patience is the key and it is well worth the wait. Follow the suggestions below and you and your pets will be rewarded with great times and a lifetime of fun!
1. The first step is to isolate your cat or kitten from the other pets in the household. A separate room (safe room) for you new cat is the best way to start. The smaller room will help your new cat get used to their new home and will adjust more quickly. It is very important to make sure you provide a litter box, scratching post, toys, and food. This will not only keep your new cat safe from your other pets in the household, it will also give all of the pets a chance to get used to each other's scent. For the first week, the only interaction that your new cat and resident cats should have is playing paws under the door.
2. Cats like routine, not change. You may notice a change in your resident cat's behavior when you first bring your new cat home. Typical reactions to expect from your resident cats are hissing, growling, hiding or fighting each other. Cats are very sensitive pets and do not be surprised if your resident cat treats you differently by ignoring you altogether or displaying aggression. Remember patience is very important through this process. During the first week (with your new cat in their safe room) the new and resident cats will have the time to get used to each other and their scent while safely separated by a door. By the close of the first week the new and resident cats will begin to acclimate to each other and feel less threatened. You should notice the negative behavior dissipate.
3. For the second week when you take that first step to have the face to face introduction keep your new cat in the cat carrier with the carrier door closed. Your resident cats will be very curious and may display aggression at first, but with your new cat safely in their carrier there shouldn't be any major drama. Repeat this for the first three days increasing the time each day. Typically by the fourth day it is safe to open the carrier door when introducing your resident pets. Your new cat will come out of the carrier when he/she feels safe enough, do not force this! Eventually your new cat and your resident cats will feel safe and comfortable with each other and your new cat will be an important part of your family.
Introducing a new cat to your household just takes time and patience. It is easy to learn how to introduce cats and dogs and all of your other household pets.
