Reptile & Amphibian Forums

We had a new kitten who found us a few days ago. I never planned on having two cats, but this little guy has just won our hearts. Any suggestions on introducing them and making the old girl feel okay with it all.

Thanks in advance.

Esther, Ramona the cat 15yrs and Oliver the MALE calico-about 8 weeks

Congratulations and thank you for rescuing this baby!

Before even thinking about introducing them, you have to keep them separated for purely medical reasons. The new kitten needs to be quarantined for a bit to rule out any contagious illnesses or parasites. Your vet will advise you how long to keep them 100% separated.

Once the quarantine period is over, the key to successful introductions is that they be made gradually. Keep the kitten in one room and the cat in an adjoining room where they can hear and smell each other under the door. Praise and pet them whenever they show interest in sniffing the other cat without hissing or growling.

Next you'll want the cats to really become familiar with each others' scents. Grab a towel and rub it on the kitten. Then rub the towel on the cat to put the kitten's scent on the adult cat. Then reverse, putting the cat's scent on the kitten. Similarly, at the end of the day, rub the inside of your own shirt on both the cat and kitten to put your scent on both of them. Make sure to do this right before any face-to-face introductions so that they smell you (a comfort to them) when they meet the other kitty.

The first time they meet in person, keep one in a cat carrier. This way they can see and smell each other without anyone getting hurt. Allow them to hiss and growl, but when they're quiet, praise them! It also helps to feed each of them while they're in the same room so that they associate the presence of the other cat with something pleasurable, in this case food.

If you read through the messages on this board, you'll see a lot of helpful tips from our members. All are variations on how to make the introduction slowly and gradually. It takes some effort on the owner's part, but usually pays off in the long run.

If you have pictures of these kitties, please post them! I'd love to see them.

Best of luck to you. Please feel free to ask more questions as you start the introduction process.
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PHCurious
Cat Chat Host

Curious already gave you the advice, so I'll just give you a pat on the back and great big thank you for rescuing this kitty.
Good luck to you all.
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Dottie
Proudly owned by The Catnip Crew...Munchkin,Casey,Maddie,Harley,Meadow,Ashley,Nicky and Mushka

I did all that and I am STILL having problems! Benji was simply sort of dropped off with me being me or the shelter! I seperated him for 3 days till he tested negative to Felv, FIV, and FIP and then let him out under supervision. I could nOT keep him locked up as he climbed over the barrier!

Corkie HATES him and when he gets near she hisses and swats and runs (he is afraid of her and keeps his distance!) Kotton poor girl is the object of his affection. HE follows her everywhere and tries to play! She will tolorate him WHEN and only when he is quite, but other times she swats and growls and knocks him about! I feel so sorry for both but all I can do is remove him and hug him and pet and reasure Kottie!

I too would appreciate any help!
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Heidi and her 'kids'
Schatzi -- Kitty and People loving Peacemaker Tuxedo SPoo boy
Corkie -- Courageous, Gutsy Little VAS Tripod Tabby girl
Kotten -- Loving HEROINE sweetheart Meezer girl
and our SynMin Minnie kitty girl -- A Heart of Gold and NOW God and Heaven's MOST PURRFECT ANGEL
Joined by Amigo Dear Proud LOVING GENTLE Tom-cat! who ALMOST was mine!