How to Introduce a Kitten to a House Cat

Getting a new kitten can be a rewarding experience for the humans in a household, but sometimes other pets, and the kitten, take a while to adjust. Cats are territorial and some may view any newcomer as an enemy. A kitten, brought to a new home and meeting a new cat, may feel intimidated by all the changes. You can make things easier on both the cat and the kitten by following some general rules.

Things You'll Need

  • Cat pheromone spray or diffuser
  • Cat treats
  • Cat bowls
  • Cat bed
  • Litter box
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Instructions

    • 1

      Use a cat pheromone spray or diffuser in your home, before you introduce the cat to the kitten. These products, found in most pet stores, may calm and soothe both animals, making the transition easier.

    • 2

      Set up a special room for the kitten's initial stay, if possible. Introducing the cat and kitten to each other immediately is not always advised, notes moggies.co.uk; whereas if separated at first, they will get to know each other a little via smell from under the door.

    • 3

      Bring the kitten out of the room, into the general home area, after a few days. Introduce the kitten while you are present and can be there for a while. It is not a good idea to place the kitten with the housecat and then go away immediately. Your presence provides reassurance that all is well. If a housecat feels sufficiently threatened, it could even harm or kill a small kitten.

    • 4

      Expect some hissing and growling at first. The cat will attempt to show its dominance towards the kitten. The cat may even hiss, growl or try to scratch or bite you--don't take this personally and do not yell or punish the cat for this. If you punish the cat at this time, it will associate the kitten with punishment and may not ever truly accept it.

    • 5

      Give the cat and the kitten special treats when they are together. The more the housecat associates the new kitten with good things, the more likely--and more quickly--the cat will accept the kitten and get along (and vice versa).

    • 6

      Shower both the cat and the kitten with equal amounts of affection. This helps prevent inevitable jealousy between the two and can make the adapting process easier.