Cat to Cat Introductions
Introduction
- Myth: Cats are solitary and dislike company.
- Reality: Cats can live harmoniously with others in nature.
- Goal: Successfully introduce one cat to another.
Preparation
Meal Time
- Ensure existing cat(s) are on a meal schedule.
- No free feeding.
- Feed 2-3 times daily on schedule.
- Integrate playtime with meal times.
Base Camp
- Designate a "Base Camp" for the new cat.
- A personal zone to acclimate.
- Important for scent integration.
- Include scent soakers like beds, blankets, and litter boxes.
Site Swapping
- Avoid direct contact initially.
- Swap their spaces without visual or physical contact.
- Allow new cat to explore while existing cat is secured elsewhere.
Catification
- Enhance environment with vertical spaces.
- Helps cats escape and avoid conflict.
- Avoid placing litter boxes in corners.
- 1 cat: 2 litter boxes, 2 cats: 3 litter boxes, etc.
Introduction Process
Door Feeding Ritual
- Create positive associations through food.
- Feed cats on opposite sides of a door.
- Gradually move bowls closer over time.
- Aim for nonchalant feeding habits without hissing or growling.
Visual Access
- Install a screen door or use pet gates to allow visual interaction.
- Gradually increase visibility while maintaining positive associations with food.
Final Meeting: Eat Play Love
- Use a combination of food, play, and affection during first direct meetings.
- Have activities ready to prevent stare downs.
- End interactions on a positive note, even if brief.
- If conflict occurs, separate and retry the next day.
Post-Introduction
- Expect cats to tolerate each other initially.
- Don't anticipate immediate friendship or cuddling.
- Continue building positive experiences.
- Understand that tolerance is the first step towards friendship.
Conclusion
- Follow these steps to create a harmonious multi-cat household.
- Stay patient and consistent.
- Keep building positive interactions.
Note: For more guidance, continue to seek expert advice and resources.