Introducing new cats? Here's how
Most cats are happier in life with a buddy. Getting your sole cat a companion cat is a very kind gift. Plus, two cats is often less work than one!
Patience is key
Once you’ve found a good match for your cat, it’s time to plan the integration steps - before Mr Flufferts moves in. Keep in mind that it can take weeks or months for cats to be okay with each other, so patience and routine will be key. Oh, and sometimes it takes just a day or two…
Remember to “quit while you’re ahead”.
Body language
They may be a bit hissy for the first little bit but that’s normal, just pace yourself. Your new cat might be social and used to other cats, but your cat will need to be okay with them in their territory. Be alert and help avoid any stare-downs or growling. And, remember, your own energy and body language also plays a huge part in this. If you freak out when you accidentally let the new cat dart out of the room and it bumps into the resident cat, this sends the message that this interaction is not positive.
Set up a “base camp”
Set up a smaller, separate room that the cat can feel safe in and use to slowly acclimatise. It’s important that this is set up ahead of time and have all the basics in there: bed, a box to hide in, water, food, litter, toys, de-stress spray.
The 10 steps of cat integration
Essentially, it’s building positive association with their scents. These are the steps:
Be sure your resident cat gets extra love and treats in this time; special treats, a new toy, etc. This avoids jealously.
Spend quality time with the new cat and build a bond with them. So, that when you tell them it’s okay, they will trust you to believe it.
Switch blankets between the new and the resident cat, so they get used to each other’s scent.
After a couple days feed the cats by the closed door between them. This is to associate a positive experience with each other’s presence.
Site swap: after a couple days from arrival, swap the cats so that they can explore each other’s area and scent and that the new cat can make a mental map of the other space. If you’re able to do this at the same time each day that’s ideal as cats are calmed by routines.
Use a baby gate in between the two areas, and feed them far apart so that they see each other but aren’t too close. Gradually feed them closer together. Always keep in mind, you are training them to think: “when I see this new cat good things happen”.
If you are able to have another person help you, then play with the cats on each side of the gate. Not too hyper of a play time. This builds positive association. Some co-cuddle times are also good.
Step 6 & 7 without the gate, always supervised and always for short stints of time. Be mindful to not have them complete over the same toy or run into each other when chases a toy.
Remember to “quit while you’re ahead”. All’s going well and they have no problem with each other? Don’t push it. Give them their own space and then introduce again. Slow and steady will win the race 😊
If they fight, then start from step one again.
“Hey, every time I see that foul-smelling guy, I get a treat. Maybe he’s not so bad after all.“
Tips from the cat guru
Jackson Galaxy has the best tips for integrating new cats with each other. Here are a couple good resources: