Introducing a new cat to the home.. some tips

As humans we can be very goal orientated but it is important to allow cats to explore each other in their own time.  Take things slowly.

Resources

Having adequate resources is really important for cats as competition can cause tension and stress between cats and lead to disharmony in their relationship. Here are some core resources for cats:

·      Litter boxes.

·      Food and water bowls.

·      Scratching posts.

·      Beds.

·      Resting spots.

Have a safe space for cat who is coming into the home. Have a room that they can go in and have all their resources inside it for them.

Food and water

Feeding cats a good distance away from each other is important so that they do not feel threatened. Cats are solitary hunters by nature and do not go out for dinner as a social activity like we do!

Keeping water bowls away from food is important so that the smell of the food does not taint the water. Cat’s don’t always drink lots so it is important that we increase their water intake as much as we can.

Scent swapping

Before the cats get home, doing scent swapping is important so when they first see each other they don’t just see, hear and smell each other which can be intimidating.

Have a blanket that has been placed in the home of the cat you are introducing and leave that around for your cat to smell. Also give the breeder/ rescue centre a blanket that your cat has been on and allow the cat/kitten to investigate it.

What to avoid

·      Don’t put cats in a room together and shut the door

·      Don’t put cats in a cat carrier and shut the door

·      Don’t allow them to fight it out in the hope that they will get used to it.

Challenges

There can be conflict between cats if any of the below have occurred

·      Fighting

·      Urinating indoors

·      Blocking access to doorways/litter trays

If you would like support introducing a new cat home and things to consider to help set things up for success please reach out.