How do i get my cat to like a new kitten?
by miss
Hi, I thank you in advance for your help in answering my question!
Having researched on the internet and taking advice from the breeder, I set up a separate room for the new kitten with everything she needs litter box food bowls beds etc, and let my other cat have the run of the rest of the house as usual. second day I began exchanging both cats scents i.e. rubbed cloth on each cats faces and presented it to the other cat with food to help them associate good things with the other cats smell. There was no reaction from the kitten, my other cat sniffed intensely then simply ate his food, no hissing or anything just cautious which I thought was a good sign.
Next day I let them see each other through a crack in the door with my close supervision both cats sniffed and pawed each other, again no hissing or growling. Next day I put my cat in kitchen with food and let the kitten out to explore the rest of the house. Then returned her to her own room and let my cat back out to roam the house freely. He did not react much just walked around sniffing cautiously.
After 3 days of separation I let them meet face to face, I did this and tried to make it positive by providing both cats with some wet food they both love in separate bowls side by side, both ate the food, which again was great but the older cat was very wearing. The kitten finished first then began eating the older cat’s food and he sat by and let her which I thought was amazing! Then the older cat began following and chasing the new kitten and biting her a little, I closely watched ready to intervene if needed as I knew I must protect the new kitten as she is tiny compared to my cat and unable to defend herself.
The older cat kept following the kitten and a few times jumped on her back pinning her to the floor and biting her she let out a little cry so I separated them again. I was sure to provide lots of love and attention to both throughout this whole process and more to my older cat. Reassuring him and playing with him. I tried again few hours later but same thing happened, my older cat jumped on kitten with her ending up on her back letting out a cry. So once again they are separated. I am back and forth both of them spending time with each but when I’m with the kitten in her room my older cat sits outside crying. This is very upsetting as I feel I have hopefully done everything right as I should have and it is draining going back and forth the two of them. I feel guilty leaving the kitten in her room alone then feel guilty when spending time with her leaving my older cat outside. I understand this can take a long time for the cat to adjust and don’t expect it to happen overnight but have I done anything wrong? And what would you suggest I do now? I have taken a week off work to help them settle and really want this to work out and for them both to be happy, and for the kitten not to get hurt of course! Any help and advice would be so much appreciated as I am rather upset by the whole thing. Both cats are pedigree and cost a lot of money not that that really matters as I love them both so getting rid of one is not an option I just want what’s best for them and for them to get along. Thank you again.
Reply
Hi
Well first of all let me say, Wow. You really have put a lot of time and effort into this cat introduction and as far as I can see you have done everything right. So don’t feel worried about that, my goodness not many people would take a week of work and put in all the time and effort you have, well done.
The only thing that you may have done wrong is assuming that your cat needed a companion while he was alone in the house. This is a common mistake made by cat owners, thinking that cats need other cats to be happy. This simply is not the case in the feline world. Unlike dogs that are pack animals, cats are solitary by nature.
This of course does not mean that cats cannot get alone and live happily with other cats and animals but these cats have usually been brought up from day one with other cats and animals around.
The first 7 weeks of a cat’s life is called the sensitive period. During this time a kitten learns many of their social skills and need to be exposed to many different people and animals to ensure that they grow up happy to be with people and other animals. Many cats do not have this and as in the case of your cat who is now 1 and a half and who is used to be the only cat in the home etc may find that the presence of another cat or kitten as a threat to his territory. So his behaviour could be an indication of this.
Having said all that what mainly happens in situations like this is after a period of time things calm down and the two cats end up tolerating each other. With one cat usually becoming boss and making sure the other cat knows it. This is normal and so hissing and growling are usually used just as a warning to the other cat that will learn when to walk away.
Your cats current behaviour although looks rough is probably not as rough in reality. He is part playing with the kitten and also part asserting his authority. This behaviour should calm down and in a way should be allowed to happen so that the equilibrium can be sorted out. I.e. kitten knows who’s boss etc.
Also don’t forget that within a month or so you will have to think about having your kitten spayed. This will prevent her giving off scents which could be seen by your cat as threatening or just plain confusing. Even neutered toms can still react to these scents.
Stick with it, try to relax around the cats, they will sense your worry and concern. I’m sure things will settle down soon.
Best wishes Kate
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