We all know that cats are fiercely territorial. Yet whenever the issue of introducing two cats has been discussed over time, I’d often hear people say, “Just put them in a room together, and they’ll work it out.” It can work occasionally. Yes, but it’s not cat-Russian Roulette. Just as often, they may determine who gets the eyeball. However, they’ll not miraculously discover the best way to get along.
In contrast, bringing a brand new cat into the home could cause the switch to territorial panic within your cat’s current one, which can lead to conflict. Do yourself and your cat the favor of following this tried and true recipe to the letter: It gives you the best chance to have an easy integration.
How can I introduce cats?
Personality conflicts can be a tough challenge to solve. It is generally accepted that kittens can be easier to get to know than a cat that is an adult. However, this is contingent on the personalities of the two cats. Because kittens aren’t sexually mature, They are usually viewed as less than a threat to your cat. For older cats, the thought of a lively kitten may be too much.
One of the issues that newly introduced cats encounter is competing for resources. Making sure both cat owners have access to all the resources they need right from the start will make both cats feel less fearful.
While bonded cats can do exceptionally well with each other, inappropriate combinations can be difficult to handle. Even with the most careful preparation, two cats might not work. Before adopting another cat, you should evaluate whether it’s the best option that fits your needs and family. Once you’ve outfitted your home with everything you require to keep both cats comfortable, you can think about ways to introduce your cats to one another.
How to Introduce Cats: Meeting Your Other Cat
A lot of cat-loving households include more than one pet within their home. Cats are great partners and playmates, enhancing each other’s lives. (Learn details about the advantages of living in a multi-cat household.) But, introducing cats to one another can take patience and time. Cats are usually put in situations where they’re either a regular cat battling the arrival of a new cat or an incoming cat attempting to enter the territory of an existing cat. It isn’t easy to enjoy being in either of these positions.
Inviting two cats to share a space without considering their position is asking for trouble. If you carefully plan the introduction, the two cats will be able to make friends and could even become lifelong companions.
When you bring your cat home, be sure she’s been vaccinated and checked for infectious illnesses, parasites, and feline leukemia. This will ensure her health and that of your pets at home.
Here are some additional ways to help the introduction run smoothly.
When is the right time to let my cats to themselves?
When you can allow your cats to be left alone is dependent on the cats. There isn’t a standard timeframe for how long the period of introduction will be. It could last for days, months, or even weeks. If you follow the above steps and neither cat seems anxious or aggressive, you can allow the two cats to be free with each other.
If you are unsure whether your pets are secure in their own home, you should keep them apart when you’re not there to watch them, even if that means maintaining them in separate areas for weeks, years, or even throughout their lives. This is a pain, no doubt; however, it’s not a significant issue in the context of the possibility of either (or both) of them becoming injured.
THE INTRODUCTION PROCESS
If you plan and take time, your odds of success when introducing cats are higher. If you are rushing into things and trying to “force” a relationship, you may end up damaging an arrangement that would be otherwise successful. Here are six tips to assist you in ensuring the success of your introduction
Begin by trading smells
After you’ve chosen the cat you want to adopt, Ask the pet shelter or breeder to see if it is possible to take home a bed that the cat used to sleep on and give to your beloved cat. Ask if it might be possible to take an old blanket that your pet used to sleep on, to gift to the new kitten. In some instances, it may not be feasible, particularly with kittens, due to health concerns if you can communicate the scents of your cats between them and introduce a vital identification and signal for communication right from the beginning.
Special Considerations For Cats and Small Spaces
Cats are highly territorial, which is why you could discover that they have difficulty sharing tiny spaces. This is the reason every cat must have its separate bed.
Cats love climbing, so think about purchasing a cat tree or cat-safe shelves. They will have more room to play without taking up much area in an apartment. It is also essential to be conscious of the noise levels in your residence throughout the introduction phase.
Preserving Peace in Your Home
When you’ve welcomed a brand new kitten or cat to the family, you have a variety of easy ways to keep the peace.
Be sure to be equipped with the appropriate equipment. Set up special, identical meals bowls, litter boxes, and beds for every cat in your home.
Offer your cats protective spaces. Create numerous hiding places and perches for your cat to look around their surroundings. They can even escape whenever they need to take a break.
Keep attention equal. Ensure your cat gets the same attention so you don’t start a war or jealousy.
Be sure to monitor your pet’s behavior closely. Watch out for unexpected changes in behavior that may be a sign of an issue with your health that is not obvious and should prompt you to consult your doctor for a health check-up.
When conflicts between cats occur, it is essential to keep your cats apart and begin slow introductions or talk to your veterinarian or even a vet behaviorist expert advice.
