How to Introduce a Male Kitten to a House That Already Has a Male Cat

Introducing a new cat into a household that already has a cat can be tricky, even if the new cat is just a kitten. Cats, especially males, are territorial by nature and do not like change. The initial introduction could set the tone for the dynamic between the cats for a long period of time. Therefore, it is vital to introduce the cats to each other incrementally, and to take steps so that the kitten does not feel overwhelmed and the male cat does not feel threatened.

Things You'll Need

  • Quiet room
  • 3 litter boxes
  • 2 cat water bowls
  • 2 cat food dishes
  • cat toys
  • Door prop
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Prepare the home for the kitten̵7;s arrival. For the first week, the kitten will need its own room with a door that closes, preferably in a quiet area. Put a litter box, water, food, and toys in this room. The kitten will have a chance to become used to its surroundings, and the male cat will not feel threatened.

    • 2

      Place the kitten̵7;s food dish on one side of its closed door, and the cat̵7;s food dish on the other side. They will learn to associate each other with something positive--food. Be prepared for growling or hissing.

    • 3

      Put the cat in the kitten̵7;s room and set the kitten free in the home after one week. The male cat will sniff around the kitten̵7;s room without feeling as though it has to defend its territory, and the kitten will get to know the smells of the home and find hiding spots. After about two hours, return the kitten to its room and set the cat free in the home again.

    • 4

      Prop the kitten̵7;s door open so the cats can see each other, but so neither can get in or out of the room, for about three days.

    • 5

      Place a bowl on either side of the room where you plan to feed the cats. Place food or treats in each bowl, and allow the kitten and the cat to go to their separate bowls. Supervise the cats. Return the kitten to its room when they are done eating.

    • 6

      Move the bowls a little closer every day, slowly, until the cats are eating next to each other. The cats may hiss and growl, but this should occur less and less as they become familiar with each other.

    • 7

      Open the door to the kitten̵7;s room all the way when the cats seem comfortable with each other. Supervise them. Do not leave them alone until you are sure they will not fight.