>>I just introduced a new cat to our home (a 4 yr old male), and I dont think it went too well. I really didnt think that my 10 month old cat would react as fiercely as he did, as I did not initially separate them. They hissed at each other, but then usually calmed down and then just stared at each other. I finally separated them, putting the new cat in our bedroom with all the things he needs and things seemed to calm down. I was thinking about putting the cat in our bathroom, but we we only hae one and a half baths in our house and they are really small rooms. The guest bedroom is already occupied, so I cant use that room either, so the only appropriate room is the bedroom. The problem with that is my 10 month old cat likes to sleep in the bedroom at night sometimes and I am worried that this will cause problems. I am just worried that since things got off to a bad start that this will cause a bad situation in the long run. I need some help!!!!


Don't worry. You're ok. Although the first meeting didn't go as smoothly as planned, this doesn't mean the relationship is doomed. They need a slow and gradual introduction. Start doing that now as if you had just brought the new cat home today. If you read through the other messages on this board, you'll find lots of tips on how to introduce them gradually.

In the meantime, they really should be separated at first, if for no other reason than you need to quarantine the new cat for a bit to make sure he doesn't have any illness that could spread to your kitten. You didn't mention your living room. For the next few days, can one cat live in exclusively in your bedroom and the other cat stay exclusively in your living room/rest of the house? Also, you mentioned that your kitten "sometimes" sleeps in your bedroom. What is his usual sleeping place? If possible, I'd keep the kitten in the room where he usually sleeps at night, and keep the new cat confined to the other area. Let me know if this makes sense given the layout of your house.

Try not worry. Some of the closest cat relationships start off with a few giant hissing and growling matches. Both cats will pick up on your emotions now. So if you are calm and accepting, they'll likely be more calm and accepting as well. And don't forget to give the kitten a bit of extra attention during this transition time.


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PHCurious
Cat Chat Host

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