If
you are going to introduce a new cat or kitten into a household
with other pets, you need to do this slowly. The
new cat should be confined to a room so that he can get
used to his new surroundings - moving is never easy on
a cat. Blankets or toys with the scent of the other
pets in the household should be given to the new cat and
vice versa so that they can get used to each other's scent. Allow
them to sniff at each other through a closed door. When
you decide that they can meet face-to-face, do this in
small amounts of time until they tolerate each other. A
great way to get them to interact is by playing with them
- I especially suggest a feather
wand, fishing rod toy, or string. Throw the toy
in between them, get one cat interested and move him toward
the other. This will take work and daily playing,
but soon they will be playing together.
Never
leave new cats alone in a house with the older residents. Put
them in their own room with the door securely closed to
eliminate problems while you are gone. Make sure
to give equal attention to both old and new cats to avoid
them competing for your attention.
Feeding
After
they are getting along, your cats should be able to share
bowls. If you prefer not to do this, set up two separate
feeding areas for each of your cats to avoid one eating the
other's food.
Litter Box
If
you adopted your new cat from a litter or a shelter, he will
already know how to use the litter box. When he's in
seclusion get him his own; when you bring him out into the
house, place him in the litter box and let him get out himself. He
will remember where it is and you should not have any problems.
Health
Your
new kitten/cat should have a visit to the veterinarian before
being brought home to check for any diseases and to get him
up-to-date with his shots. There are some diseases that
can be passed between cats so please be sure to take care
of this right away so you don't have health problems down
the road.
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