If you decide to get a new cat you should know that he may not be accepted immediately by your old cat. Some cats may be friendlier than others and in rare cases, the new cat will never be fully accepted. You need to be aware of this and allow your pets to get used to each other.
Introducing a New Cat
When your old cat meets the new cat, you can notice that there will be some hissing, fighting or chasing. This is due to the fact that the old cat will feel threatened by the new pet and the new pet will also want to establish some kind of supremacy.
Some cats may get used to each other easily, but some may require several weeks to get to accept each other. This may be due to the personality of each cat (some personalities may be more compatible) but may also be due to the age and sex of the cat. Same sex cats may fight more. A younger new cat may be accepted sooner than an older cat.
Also, if you get a feral cat, he may be more difficult to introduce in the house, as he will tend to be more aggressive and territorial. An abandoned cat may be extremely stressed and may have difficulties adjusting to the life with another pet and sharing the owner with another pet.
Test the New Cat for Diseases
Prior to introducing the new cat, it’s important to know he doesn’t carry any diseases that may be transmitted to the other cat.
You may also start a bit of behavior training with the new cat.
Half Hour Common Time
When you get a new pet, don’t introduce him to the old cat. Take him to a different room and take the empty carrier to the old cat, so he can get used to the scent of the new cat.
Keep the new pet in a different room and don’t allow him to see the old pet just for 30 minutes at a time. During this time, you should watch the pets and try to stop them when you notice that they are about to fight. Don’t get in between the cats, but make some noises or sprinkle them with water to break up the fight.
This time can be extended if you see that the cats start to get along. In the end, you can keep them together all day.
Separate Feeding
Cats may become aggressive when feeding and if the new cat is fed in the same area as the old cat, this can often lead to fights.
Consequently, it’s easier if you feed your cats in separate rooms and as they get used to each other, you can move the food bowls closer.
It’s important that your pets know they have their own food and there is no threat they loose any of this food.
Take Time
You should know that the cats may start being friends after 2 to 12 weeks, so take your time. If you feel your cats are not ready to spend all day together, keep them separated for as long as needed.