There are few things more fun than adding a kitten to the family. Their snuggles, antics, and sheer cuteness can't be resisted, but what if you already have a cat in the home? Will they feel the same way? Probably not at first, but with a slow and positive introduction, it is likely they will become lasting friends. Here are some tips to help make the transition go smoothly.
Before They Meet
The first step is setting your kitten up for success before any face-to-face interaction happens.
- Set up the kitten in their own room with a litterbox, food and water, beds, toys, scratching posts, and a cozy hiding spot like a cardboard box.
- Consider adding pheromone dispensers, such as Feliway Multi-Cat, to your home. Follow the directions carefully for maximum efficacy.
- During the first two weeks, visit the kitten frequently, but don't forget your cat's needs. Keep their feeding, play, and snuggle routines in place as much as possible.
Getting Acquainted Through Scent
Cats communicate largely through smell, so letting them get used to each other's scent before they ever meet is a crucial step.
- Swap a small piece of bedding, like a towel, between the two cats so each can acclimate to the other's scent. When you swap, leave the towel or bed in an unobtrusive area, not on your cat’s bed or other favorite places. Don’t force interaction.
The Visual Introduction
Once both cats seem relaxed around each other's scent, it's time to let them experience each other from a safe distance.
- Place a baby gate covered by a towel in the doorway of the kitten's room. Open the door and as you sit at the entrance, play with and feed them both. Keep it positive and fun.
- After several sessions you should see them relax and enjoy themselves. This is the time to slide the makeshift curtain over a little so they can see each other. If either cat becomes upset, close the door and repeat the session later with the curtain closed.
- Gradually increase visual access over several sessions. If either cat hisses, puffs up, or shows signs of stress, take a step back and give them more time.
Living Together
Patience is the most important ingredient throughout this process. Expect an up-and-down rhythm. Some days will go better than others, and it's always okay to go back a few steps if needed.
- Once the cats can interact happily in full view of each other, allow them to share the same space, but monitor carefully at first. Adult cats can sometimes play too roughly with kittens, and kittens can overwhelm older cats. Make sure both get regular breaks from one another.
- As the kitten settles into the household, make sure resources are plentiful and spread throughout the home, including feeding and water bowls, scratching posts, sleeping areas, and litterboxes for each cat plus one extra.
With time and patience, your cats can build a bond that lasts a lifetime. If things aren't going as smoothly as you'd hoped, don't hesitate to reach out to the Richmond SPCA's Behavior Helpline. We're here to help.
