How to introduce a new kitten to your existing cat

Bringing home a new kitten is exciting but can put stress on the cat that already rules the roost, especially if your cat has been the only pet. Patience and time is the key to harmony within the furry members of your family.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Spare room with a door
• Old washcloth or towel
• Litterbox
• Food bowls
• Kitten toys

1. Keep the new kitten separated in a room, letting your current cat still have the run of the house. If possible, keep the new kitten in a room where they can smell each other under the door. They may growl or hiss at the door but they cannot hurt each other.

2. Wipe the new kitten down with a dry washcloth or towel and let the old cat smell it. Use the same washcloth to wipe the old cat, then let the kitten smell it. This introduces them to each others smell without interaction.

3. After a week, take the new kitten out of its room and introduce her to the old cat. Make sure you are present in case of a fight. Do not let the old cat in the new cat’s room. The new cat should feel that it has a safe place. If the cats fight, you can hold off a few more days before the next interaction.

4. Continue to have "chaperoned" meetings. Do not scold your old cat for growling, only if she attacks. Start the meetings out short, then go for longer distances. Let them smell each other and be curious.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not leave the kitten alone in her room for long periods of time. Kittens need a lot of love, attention and play time.
• Keep the litter box and food separated if possible in the kittens room. The kitten may decide not to use the litter box if it's right next to her food.
• This may not work for every cat or take much longer for the cats to become friendly.
• Older cats that have been single pets of the household may have a harder time accepting the new pet.

[63miranda]

on 2/23/2009 You are exactly right. I did this with my cats. 5*