by Adopt a Pet, | January 8, 2024
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Ana Luz Crespi / Stocksy
In order to get your cats to like each other, start with a proper introduction. This includes four steps outlined below. After that, or if the cats have already been introduced, there are some tips you can try to help them get along. It might take some time, but if you’re patient and persistent, your cats can most likely learn to be friends.
Four Steps To A Proper Introduction
Isolation
Place the new cat in a room with everything they need including a litter box, food, water, and toys. Feed your other cat on the other side of the door. Over a few days, move the food bowls closer to each side of the door until they are right up against it.
Sight/Scent
This step involves sub-steps. You shouldn’t move on to the next step until the cats seem okay with the current step.
Swap out the blankets between cats, so they will get used to each other’s scents.
Prop the door open just enough for the cats to see each other.
Put one cat in a carrier and place it in a room with the other cat.
Confine the old cat in the isolation room and let the new cat explore the house.
Initial Meeting
Allow your cat to enter the isolation room with the new cat. Be there to observe, and be prepared to intervene in case a catfight breaks out. Offer treats and have lots of toys on hand. If either cat becomes aggressive, it’s time to stop for the day. Don’t worry, you can try again tomorrow! After about ten minutes, wrap up this first meeting.
Increase Time Together
If things are going well, slowly increase the amount of time the cats spend together by adding 5 or so minutes each time. If at any point the cats fight, separate them and then give it a day or two before trying another meeting.
After The Introductions Have Been Made
Whether you just introduced a new cat or you’re trying to get two cats you’ve had for a while to get along, here are some tips that might help:
Cats Like Their Own Spaces And Their Own Stuff: Try having two of everything including food and water bowls, litter boxes (one per cat plus one additional box), beds, etc… If they have their own, they won’t have to fight over them. Also, don’t force them to be in the same space. Let them come and go and be sure that each has a favorite comfy spot where they can steal away for a catnap.
Ease Congestion: Are there spaces in your home where your cats tend to bump into each other and get into a tiff? If so, add kitty walkways or tubes along the walls to avoid that situation.
Lots Of Playtime: Spend time playing with your cats to burn off energy and relieve stress. Playtime should be separate until they are getting along and then you can play with both cats together.
Some cats take months—or even longer—to warm up to each other, so be patient. Even if they’ll never be best friends, most cats will at least learn to tolerate each other.