By Tanya M. Ursual

From The Lanark Animal Welfare Society (LAWS) P.O. Box 256, Lanark, Ontario, K0G 1K0:

TIPS FOR INTRODUCING A SECOND CAT IN YOUR HOME

One of the most frequent comments we hear at the shelter is “We would love to get another cat but we are sure that our existing cat would get upset.” This is a valid concern and if your own cat is elderly or unwell, it would be unfair to force an introduction, at this time. If no health or behavioural problems exist, here are some tips to ensure the successful introduction of a second cat.

The key to success is time and patience. Cats are territorial so you will want to prevent an initial confrontation based on fear and aggression. When you first bring your new cat home, it is best to confine it to a room of its own. It will need its own litter box, food, water and a bed. You will be amazed at just how quickly your cat realizes there is something on the other side of that door. Allow the cats to sniff each other through the door and always use your most reassuring voice. Be sure to frequently check on your new cat and take that time to bond with it. It will be settling in and adjusting to the various sounds in your home (including trying to figure out just how many cats lay on the other side of that door). After a day or so, switch the cat beds or blankets so they can familiarize themselves with the other’s smell.

Now its time to allow a first look. Begin by opening the door allowing the cats to see each other for brief periods of time. A little later, bring the new cat out allowing it to roam the house but put your existing cat in the new cat’s room with the door closed. They will enjoy the chance to satisfy their curiosity and after an hour or so switch the cats back to their original location.

By now, a day or two have passed and you are ready to being the official introduction. Begin by opening the door that separates the new and existing cats. Again, using your most reassuring voice allow them to approach one another. Don’t be surprised or alarmed if there is some initial growling or hissing, this is normal. If a spat does occur, throw a pillow, squirt a water bottle or make a loud noise. Never try to reach in to pick up the cats. Be assured that, even if a spat breaks out, it is unlikely either cat will be seriously injured. If a spat has occurred, separate the cats and try the introduction again in a few hours, repeating as necessary. Once they begin to appear more relaxed it is time to cement the deal and there is one thing that works better than all others- FOOD! A can of tuna does the trick so give each cat their own bowl approximately six feet apart. After a few minutes you will see them cleaning themselves and they will glance at one another and you will know a silent understanding of acceptance has passed. Of course, these tips are precautionary measures and one can never truly predict the behaviour of any cat. Each cat personality is so unique that your existing cat may surprise you and be quite smitten at the appearance of a new friend. By the way, even in the face of an immediate friendship, they will still expect that can of tuna to be presented as a peace offering. And so begins, twice the fun….