If you've decided to bring a new cat into the family, and you already have one cat, don't expect them to get along right from the start. In fact, you should be prepared for some mild aggression, especially towards the new cat. You family cat might not be too happy that you've moved someone else in on their territory. With some careful precautionary steps and a lot of patience, both cats should start getting along in a few days. Here are five tips that will help keep things calm while your cats get used to each other.
1. Visit the Veterinarian
If you're going to be bringing a new cat into the family, the first thing you should do is visit the vet. A thorough checkup will ensure that your new cat isn't carrying any diseases that could infect the cat you already have at home. The vet will also be able to give you tips on how to help your cats adjust to each other.
2. Set Up Separate Litter Boxes
Now that you've brought a second cat into the family, don't expect them to share the bathroom facilities. More than likely, that's not going to happen. In fact, if your new cat does try to use the same litter box, you may find that your seasoned cat decides to use your favorite shoes as a replacement. Avoid the frustration, aggression, and mess by setting up separate litter boxes for each of your cats. Place the litter box for your new cat in a new location. That will reduce some of the anxiety and confusion.
3. Ensure Adequate Alone Time
For at least the first few days, both of your cats are going to need their own space. During this time, it's crucial that you ensure adequate alone time for both of them. If your seasoned cat has a favorite hiding place, let it keep that spot. Don't try to introduce your new cat to that spot. Instead, allow your new cat the opportunity to find it's own favorite hiding place.
4. Provide Plenty of Chances for Them to Interact
Your cats might not know how to interact with each other for the first couple of days. Go ahead and facilitate the interaction by making yourself available. Sit down on the couch and give both your cats the opportunity to approach you. As you make yourself available for interaction, you'll find that your cats will begin to interact with each other.
5. Let Them Work Out Their Differences
Until your cats have reached an agreement about seniority, they may have a few altercations. Unless they're really hurting each other, try to let them work out their differences on their own. If you get involved in their skirmishes, you might send the wrong message, and you don't want to do that. By sitting back and letting your cats work out their differences, you'll help them adjust to life as a team.
To learn more tips, contact an animal hospital near you.
Share6 January 2018
After our youngest daughter was in high school, I realized that I liked having people around to take care of and that my window for doing that was closing quickly. Instead of having more children, I decided to see about adopting a pet or two. I looked everywhere for a dog and a cat that would meld well with my lifestyle, and it was incredible to find a pet that I really connected with. However, I was able to find pets that I absolutely adored, and so I made them a part of our home. This blog is here to help new pet owners to adjust to their new situation and to learn to love everything about having new pets.