Adding a kitten to your family when you already have an older cat can be a wonderful experience. However, the introduction process must be carefully considered and planned to ensure a smooth transition for your two feline friends. If you’re wondering what to do when introducing a kitten to an older cat, we’ve got you covered.
How to introduce a kitten to an older cat?
The most important thing to successfully introduce your two cats is patience. Proceeding slowly and gradually is the best way to observe their reactions and understand the unique personalities of your feline companions. Rushing can lead to stress, territorial conflicts, and potential behavioral problems (especially aggression between them and, worse, toward the family).
What to do before introducing a new kitten to an older cat?
To ensure everything goes smoothly, here are some steps to take before introducing the two cats.
- Start by exchanging scents between the kitten and the older cat. You can do this by gently rubbing a cloth on one cat and letting the other sniff it. This allows them to become familiar with each other before meeting in person.
- It is imperative to prepare a separate space for each cat. They must, of course, be equipped with everything they need, such as water, food, a litter box, and toys, but, more importantly, you must prepare areas where they can hide (with, at least, one entrance and one exit), areas where they can climb, and even have some of these hiding places at a certain height. First, let each of the cats acclimate to their space with all the new resources (including the hiding places we mentioned). Change areas several times a day without them seeing each other, and present them with the towel with the other cat’s scent for them to smell. At the same time, while they smell the scent, give them food they really like, pet them (if they like it), and play with them. This allows them to acclimate to the new smells without feeling threatened. Further in the article, we explain how to create a strong bond between them from the very first stages.
- Allow both cats to see each other from a distance. You can use a glass door or a screen door to create a sort of barrier between them. This visual exposure can help them get used to each other’s presence without direct contact.
Introducing a Kitten to an Older Cat – Step by Step
Introducing your new kitten to your older cat doesn’t have to be a stressful and time-consuming experience for all involved. So try following these steps, and you’ll find that your two cats will become friends in no time.
- Gradually introduce short, supervised encounters between the two cats. Keep them positive by offering treats and lots of praise. If all goes well, you’ll notice them feeling more comfortable with each other.
- Let them play together using toys that appeal to their hunting instincts. This shared experience helps create a bond between them.
- During mealtimes, place their bowls on either side of a closed door. They’ll quickly associate eating together with a sense of camaraderie.
- As your two companions get used to each other’s presence, try gradually reducing the barriers between them. This might mean allowing them to spend short periods of time in the same room under close supervision.
What not to do
There’s no guarantee that your two cats will become best friends, but there are some things you absolutely must not do if you want them to like each other.
The first is to never force them to interact. Patience is essential for both cats to feel safe in each other’s presence.
Also, try not to neglect the older cat during the introduction phase. They’ve been with you for a long time and need the same attention, affection, and playtime that you give the new kitten. This will let them know that they’re still important members of the household.
It’s also helpful to pay attention to any signs of aggression, fear, or stress in either cat. If you notice something amiss, consider slowing down the introduction process and consulting your veterinary behaviorist for advice.
If, unfortunately, they start fighting, do not try to separate them by hand. Try to separate them using an object that can be placed between them (such as a large cushion or a chair). Once they have been separated into different rooms, leave them alone for a while before interacting with them (i.e., make sure they are calm before trying to calm them down or check for serious injuries), as they may attack you, which could have serious consequences for your relationship with them in the future.
