Socialization
Provided by Purina
Cats like stability, so an environmental or social change may have a pronounced
effect on their behavior. Your cat will adapt, but it may take some time.
Tips for Introducing a New Cat to Your Old One
Chances are your cat will react to a newcomer by distancing herself. She may hide
for a few days, refusing to acknowledge the newcomer, or she may act up in an attempt
to persuade the new feline to retreat. Here are a few tips to ease the transition:
- Give your new cat an area where she can retreat if she becomes threatened
- Putting her in a spare room with the door closed for the first few days will give
both cats the chance to adjust to each other's scents without hurting each other
- Give your newcomer a litter box in her area along with food and water
Selecting a New Cat
A kitten is an ideal choice, but should you want to introduce an adult cat, try
to find one that has lived with other cats. A cat that’s similar in age and sex
to the resident cat will be accepted more readily.
Multiple Cat Households
In general, the following combinations in a multiple cat household seem to work
best:
- Two kittens
- A mature, neutered cat and kitten
- Two mature neutered cats (either two females or a male and a female)
The most volatile combination seems to be two un-castrated, mature male cats.
Consider your current cat's personality before introducing a new cat. An active
cat is more likely to accept a new kitten. A quieter, more reclusive cat might prefer
a mature, adult cat as a companion.
If your cats exhibit personality conflicts, you can reduce the tension between family
felines by making sure each one has enough personal space and personal possessions
to fulfill her needs.
To avoid territory conflicts, consider placing litter boxes in various locations
throughout the house to avoid the exclusion of one cat from another cat's territory.
In addition, keep scratching posts and beds in several locations to accommodate
all the cats in your household.
