Adding a New Cat

Adding a New Cat

The solution I have found to work best is to give the new cat, especially if he is an adult, his own room for a couple of days, one that isn’t another cat’s favored room, of course. (The younger your cats are, the less time will be needed by the way; older cats, like people, become very set in their ways and don’t welcome change.) Keep the door closed, and visit the newcomer frequently, talking with him and petting him. Remember he’ll need a litter box; preferably, feed him in the room for at least the first day as well. Then, open the door for longer and longer periods, so he can come out and explore. When you see one of your existing cats go into the room, follow him inside – then sit on the floor, one cat on each side, and pet and talk to each at the same time. The idea is to demonstrate to both of them that they are each mutually loved and appreciated. It is very important in a multi-cat household that you give each cat the same amount of affection – they will have enough to deal with amongst themselves when establishing who’s top-cat, without you compounding the situation by showing favoritism.