Getting Cats Reaccustomed to Each Other

Cats do not require companionship, but many cats enjoy having a buddy to bond with in the home. Bringing a new cat into a home that already has one or more cats can be a stressful experience, as most cats will perceive a new cat as a threat to their territory. When you bring a new cat into your home, keep her in a separate room away from the established cat that is already living there. This way you can slowly introduce the new cat and allow the cats to become accustomed to being around each other.

  1. Scent

    • Cats establish territory by marking objects with their scent. Pet each cat, one after the other without washing your hands, so they can get used to each other's smell. Use a soft towel and gently rub it along your cat's head and cheek area to pick up her scent, then go about your house, rubbing the cloth on furniture and other areas where the established cat likes to sleep. This will announce the new cat's presence to your cat. Also allow each cat to explore each other's rooms, one at a time, so they can investigate the new smells.

    Introduction

    • If possible, use a cat pen or carrier for the first fact-to-face introduction of your cats. Place the new cat in a carrier or pen and place it on a table or counter so the cats can see each other while avoiding direct eye contact, which cats can interpret as a challenge and provoke aggression. Then allow the established cat to enter the room and gently reassure her by petting her as she begins to investigate the new cat.

    Patience Required

    • According to the ASPCA, it takes most cats eight to 12 months to develop friendships or bond with new cats. Keep the cats in separate rooms that are adjoined by a screen door. You can also set up baby gates or two high-tension gates in the doorway to allow the cats to see each other but not make physical contact. This way they can hear and smell each other and grow used to each other.

    Sharing Territory

    • Provide separate food and water bowls for each cat, as well as their own litter boxes, beds and scratch posts. Try to feed your cats near the door and place cat treats by it to teach them that being near each other results in a pleasurable experience, such as being fed. After a few weeks, if there are no signs of aggression you can allow the cats to be in the same room with each other. To alleviate some of the stress associated with the introduction of a new cat to your home, leave access to hiding places in your home. Some cats like to hide under beds or behind couches, while others like to hide in perches, such as a window ledge or a wide cat perch.