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If
the time has come for an addition to the feline family,
introducing a new kitten to a single cat can be difficult.
Cats are extremely territorial and often won’t easily
allow a newcomer on their turf. Cats are also
possessive and sharing their special person with another
kitty isn’t easy. Most cats will feel that a new
kitten threatens their security and domestic tranquility won’t be immediate. A long adjustment period is to
be expected.
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Bringing
a new kitten home, however, can be a success if the cat
owner proceeds with slow caution and consideration for the
first cat.
When
selecting a new kitten to bring home to the family, try to choose
one of the opposite genders from the current cat. Cats of
different sexes tend to get along better than two cats of the same
gender. The size of the kitten is also important. A
small kitten may be accepted in time much easier than a larger,
older kitten or young cat. To prepare the cat for the new
arrival, bring home a blanket or towel that has been used as bedding
for the new kitten. Or, rub the new kitten with a towel and
then place the towel in the cat’s bed to let the cat become
accustomed to the new smell.
Never
bring home a new kitten during a hectic, stressful period such as
the holidays. Opt for a quieter time. A long weekend is
ideal to help both cats adjust to the changed situation. If at
all possible, have the kitten spayed or neutered prior to bringing
it into the home.
Upon
arrival, don’t put both cats together or attempt to force a
meeting. Have a separate area prepared for the kitten with an
individual litter box, water dish, and feeding dish. Try to
have an area where the kitten can be away from the older cat at
first.
Let
the cat smell the box that the new kitten arrived in. Just
place it on the floor and let the cat explore it on his own.
Explain to the cat that a new playmate and companion has arrived.
Let
the kitten explore its’ own quarters. Give extra attention
to the older cat. Have extra play periods together with the
cat and give plenty of tender, loving care. This helps the
established cat not to feel threatened by the presence of the
kitten.
After
a few days, bring the kitten into the same area with the cat.
Be prepared to separate the cats if the older cat becomes too
threatening but sit back and allow the cats to meet. The
kitten will likely want to play with the cat but the cat may not be
interested. Expect the cat to hiss at the new arrival.
Be alert and if the cat threatens to scratch or claw the kitten,
separate the pair.
Put
the cats together for a short period each day until they become more
familiar. An older cat may try to “mother” a kitten or the
two may become friends. Other cats may co-exist in an armed
truce or survive by ignoring the others’ existence. As long
as there is no open hostility, cats can thrive in the same
environment even if they are not happy companions.
Expect
a week or two to pass before the cats begin to exist in any thing
resembling harmony. Continue to give the first cat extra
attention. Giving a favourite treat to the cat each time he or
she interacts with the kitten can help make the experience more
pleasant. Bringing a new toy to the established cat can also
help reassure that cat that they are still loved.
Many
cat owners enjoy multiple felines but each new addition should be
introduced on an individual basis. With planning, caution, and
care, a new kitten can be introduced to a cat and the pair can live
together in peace.
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