How Do I Assimilate a New Cat in With Mine?

Bringing a new cat into your home can create conflict with your current cat. Cats are naturally territorial and you may find that your cat isn't willing to accept a new cat. It could take nearly one year for your new cat to develop a relationship with your other cat, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. It's important to establish the relationship between your cats the right way.

Things You'll Need

  • 2 litter boxes
  • Food
  • 2 food dishes
  • Water
  • Cat treats
  • Towel
  • Toys
  • Baby gate
  • Squirt bottle
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Instructions

  1. Isolation

    • 1
      Keep the new cat in its own room.

      Separate your cats from each other when you bring the new cat home. Isolate the new cat in one room of your house and keep the door securely closed. Provide the new cat with its own litter box, food and water.

    • 2
      Let your cats eat near each other.

      Place your other cat's food dish on the opposite side of the closed door. This allows your cat to smell and realize that there's a new cat in the home. The ASPCA suggests giving the cats treats near the door as well. Continue feeding the cats near the door for three days.

    • 3
      Swap scents with a towel.

      Take a towel and rub your cat with it. Take the towel and rub the new cat. This allows the towel to carry both scents of your cats. Take the towel back to your current cat and rub it with the towel. This allows the cats to investigate each other without potential hostility.

    • 4
      Get your cats interested.

      Play with toys near the door. Eventually your cats will play paws beneath the door. This is the only encounter your cats should have for the first week of your new cat's arrival, advises 4Paws Rescue Team.

    Introduction

    • 5

      Position a baby gate at the door. Have a family member assist you with the introduction.

    • 6

      Sit on one side of the gate with your new cat. On the other side of the gate, have your family member hold the other cat. Let go of the cats simultaneously. Let the cats view each other at their own pace.

    • 7
      Allow time for your cats to warm up to each other.

      Open the gate if your cats show no signs of aggression. You can encourage play by using a toy that will engage both cats. Supervise their interactions.