How long does it take for a cat to get used to a new cat in the house?
How long does it take for a cat to get used to a new cat in the house?
It takes most cats eight to 12 months to develop a friendship with a new cat. Although some cats certainly become close friends, others never do. Many cats who don’t become buddies learn to avoid each other, but some cats fight when introduced and continue to do so until one of the cats must be re-homed.
Will my cat be OK with a new cat?
Adult cats will usually accept a new kitten much more easily than they will accept a new adult cat. Cats are territorial, and your cat may resent an adult feline intruder. If you’re able to choose from a group of kittens, avoid a kitten that’s hissing, growling or engaged in serious battle with his mates.
How do you settle a new cat with other cats?
Keep both cats apart to start with. Give your new cat a room of their own where they can settle in for a few days with their own food, warm bed, water bowls and a litter tray. While the new cat is settling in their room, start to introduce their scent to your existing cat. Let your cat smell your hands and clothing.
Can you introduce new cats to each other?
Ideally, you should make the initial introductions with your new cat in a large pen, but if this is not possible, have a friend or family member on hand to help. Your friend should open the door to your new cat’s room whilst you are with your existing cat in another room or some distance away.
Is hissing normal when introducing cats?
Some hissing is normal during this stage. Don’t punish the cats for hissing or growling as that can form a negative association about the other cat, as well as you. Allow the cats to see each other once there has been no hissing for a couple of days.
What happens if you introduce cats too quickly?
Introducing too quickly with little preparation will often lead to cats feeling threatened and scared, which increases the chance of aggressive behaviour being shown. Once cats feel this way about each other, it can be extremely difficult to change their minds.
Is it better to have two cats of the same gender?
A male and a female may not get along better than a pair of the same sex. Sex simply isn’t an accurate predictor of how well a pair of cats will get along. Instead, whether the cats are similar in temperament is more important. Cats that act the same are more likely to get along.
Will my cat hate me if I get a new kitten?
While older cats will occasionally take to a new kitten right away, they typically need a little time to adjust to the changes. Sometimes cats never fully accept a new kitten but will simply coexist, keeping to themselves away from the other cat in the house.
Should I let my cats growl at each other?
Don’t punish the cats for hissing or growling as that can form a negative association about the other cat, as well as you. Allow the cats to see each other once there has been no hissing for a couple of days.