Problems With Introducing a New Cat to Your Household

If you love cats, you might find it hard to stop at just one. But you may find that your current cat isn't as excited about a new arrival as you are. Before bringing a new cat home, be prepared for potential problems.

  1. Litter Box Problems

    • Cats that have reliably used the litter box may start going outside it when a new cat enters the picture. Urine marking is an aggressive way for a cat to show the newcomer that territory has been claimed.

    Scratching

    • Cats also mark territory by scratching, using the scent glands on their paws. Old and new cats may even have what look like "scratch-offs" on your carpet or furniture to assert territory.

    Behavior Changes

    • The cat that seemed so friendly at the shelter might become frightened and withdrawn when brought into another cat's territory. Your first cat may also change his behavior when confronted with a new cat.

    Problems Between Existing Pets

    • If you already live an a multi-cat household, adding a new cat to the mix can disrupt the relationship between existing cats---even if they've previously been friends.

    Fights

    • When introducing a new cat to your household, it's almost inevitable that the fur will fly at some point. While catfights usually sound worse than they are, they're stressful to both cats and owners and can lead to injury.

    Solutions

    • You can avoid many of the above problems by taking introductions slowly. Give your new cat its own room for the first several weeks. During that time, rub towels on both cats and exchange the towels so they get used to the other's scent. If they don't show signs of stress, you can eventually introduce them face-to-face.