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Bringing a new cat into your home can be a delicate operation, especially for your existing feline, who likely cherishes its space and routine. Cats, by nature, are solitary creatures—highly territorial and resistant to sudden changes in their environment. In the wild, they typically only mingle for mating or raising kittens. So, when you disrupt the balance by introducing another cat, your long-time companion may not be too pleased. Signs of this displeasure can include scratching furniture, marking territory, or a sudden change in mood.
But don’t stress! Adding a second cat to your household is achievable with the right approach, patience, and a few strategic steps. Here’s how you can make the introduction smoother and help your cats form a peaceful bond.
### 1. **Preparation Is Key: Create a Safe Space**
Before your new cat arrives, set up a special area just for them. This could be a spare bedroom or even the laundry. The room should be equipped with everything they need—litter box, bedding, toys, food, and water bowls. By giving the new cat their own territory from the start, you reduce the chance of a turf war.
While it might be tempting to leave the new cat alone in this room, it’s crucial to spend time with them regularly. Play with them, groom them, and help them feel at home. This ensures the new cat starts bonding with you during this crucial period.
### 2. **The Power of Scents: Swapping Items**
Cats rely heavily on scent to recognise and become comfortable with each other. Start the process by swapping bedding, toys, or blankets between the new and old cat. This allows both cats to get used to each other’s scent without the pressure of a face-to-face encounter. You could even rub a soft cloth on each cat's cheeks and paws (where scent glands are located) and leave the cloth in the other’s space. This scent-swapping technique helps reduce the shock of a first meeting.
### 3. **Meal Time Magic: Eating Together, Apart**
Feeding both cats at the same time, but on opposite sides of a closed door, is another excellent way to ease them into each other’s presence. The idea is that both cats begin associating the other’s scent with something positive—like dinner. Over time, you can gradually move their bowls closer to the door.
For extra encouragement, treat both cats to a little snack or a special food they love during these shared mealtimes. This will further reinforce positive associations with the other cat's scent.
### 4. **Equal Attention: Prevent Jealousy**
It's easy to lavish attention on the new cat—after all, it’s exciting! But make sure you’re giving your old cat the same love and attention. Spend quality time with them, maintain your usual routines, and make sure they know they’re still your top priority. This prevents feelings of jealousy, which could lead to bad behaviour like scratching or spraying.
### 5. **Playtime Under the Door: Encouraging Interaction**
Once the scent exchange and feeding routine have been established, it’s time to let the cats play together—still separated by the door, of course! Use interactive toys that can slip under the door or engage them in games where they can bat at each other’s paws. This creates a safe and playful environment for their first physical interaction.
### 6. **Introducing Face-to-Face Meetings**
When both cats seem calm and relaxed with the door separating them, it’s time for a supervised face-to-face meeting. There may be some hissing or light swatting—this is normal. As long as it doesn’t escalate into full-blown aggression, allow them to sort out their own hierarchy. If they get too rough, gently separate them using a towel, but avoid picking up an angry cat, as you could end up scratched or bitten.
Start with short, supervised sessions and slowly increase the duration as the cats become more comfortable.
### 7. **Use Feliway or Other Cat Pheromones**
Cat pheromones can be incredibly helpful during this time. Products like Feliway mimic the natural calming pheromones cats produce, which can reduce stress and tension. Use a diffuser in both the new cat’s room and the main living areas to promote calmness.
### 8. **The Power of Vertical Space: Give Cats Room to Roam**
Cats love to claim vertical territory, so if possible, add some vertical spaces like cat trees, shelves, or window perches. This allows both cats to have their own areas to retreat to if they feel overwhelmed. Giving them access to different spaces reduces the likelihood of conflict and gives your older cat some breathing room while the new one settles in.
### 9. **Reward Good Behaviour**
Whenever you see both cats acting calmly around each other, reward them! Use treats, petting, or verbal praise to reinforce their good behaviour. This positive reinforcement helps them associate each other with positive experiences.
### 10. **Patience, Patience, Patience**
Finally, don’t rush the process. Every cat is different, and some take longer to adjust than others. Watch for signs of stress or anxiety, and be prepared to give them extra time if needed. If at any point the introductions seem to be going poorly, don’t hesitate to extend the separation period. Slow and steady wins the race.
At **Snuffles**, we’ve helped many of our clients successfully introduce new Persian and exotic cats into their homes. Whether you’re bringing home one of our award-winning cats or simply seeking advice, we’re here to support you every step of the way. We believe in creating harmonious homes where both your new and existing cats can thrive.
For more tips on feline behaviour or to learn about our services, reach out to Snuffles today. Let’s make sure your new addition is welcomed into a peaceful, happy home!
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