How to bring a new cat into a house with existing cats?
Judge Judy of Y/A asked:
I have 4 cats and tonight I’m going to get another cat (not kitten) from a friend who can’t keep the cat. Does anyone have good suggestions for getting the cats used to each other quickly? How can I convince my existing cats to get along with the new cat?
I have 4 cats and tonight I’m going to get another cat (not kitten) from a friend who can’t keep the cat. Does anyone have good suggestions for getting the cats used to each other quickly? How can I convince my existing cats to get along with the new cat?
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January 13th, 2009 at 6:45 am
You could first put a special toy to get them there. they will share and live happily ever after
January 13th, 2009 at 9:56 pm
Put the new cat in a separate room with its own litter box, food bowl and water. Keep separate from others. There’ll be lots of sniffing at the door, but that’s ok.
After a few days, bring individual cats in and let them meet each other 1-on-1.
We’ve introduced maybe 5-6 cats this way over the years.
January 17th, 2009 at 12:38 am
It will happen on its own , They all have their territorial spots , but they will bond eventually.
January 17th, 2009 at 9:40 am
First of all you have too many cats.
Bring the new cat into a room all by itself. Keep it isolated. The othe cats will hiss and growl at it. They will stay by the door and start swatting back and forth. Eventually bring the cat out and let them play supervised. They will fight but don’t stop it unless you see blood. Let themdetermine who is dominant.Good luck.
January 20th, 2009 at 3:09 pm
This article deals first with cat-to-cat introduction and general advice on settling in a new cat. Cat-to-dog introductions are dealt with further down the page.
January 23rd, 2009 at 3:12 pm
I just brought a new adult kitty into my two cats life, and it only took a day and they were a happy family. Still have their fights once in a while, but it only takes time.
January 26th, 2009 at 1:33 am
Go slowly - alot depends on the temperament of the cat/cats. Keep the cats separated at first, then let together under supervision for awhile before you let them all have the run of your house. Try having a “playtime” with al of them together several times per day. Use a toy mouse, chase a string, etc, they usually can’t resist!
Make sure you have enough litter boxes, some say to have one per cat. Some cats will act out if they think the litterbox is dirty (even when you scoop it often), or if they pick up another cat’s scent using it. Try to have different food bowls for each cat. It takes time, but after a lot “staring sessions” from accross the room at each other, they will usually settle in and get used to each other.
Good Luck!
January 28th, 2009 at 7:17 am
Just bring it into the house they will figure it out even if the new cat hides under the couch or some other place most of the time. Eventually they will all get along.