Introducing a new cat into your home

Ready to welcome a new furry friend into your family? Or thinking about it? We're excited to guide you through the process of choosing the right cat and introducing them to your existing cat(s). Done right, the introduction can create lasting bonds, but if not handled properly, it might stress out your current feline friend(s). Read this article to be fully prepared!

How to choose the right cat to adopt when you already have a cat?

Introducing a new cat into your home when you already have one or more furry companions requires careful thought and planning to ensure a smooth transition and foster harmony among your pets. To assist you in this important decision-making process, we've compiled a practical guide to help you find the perfect addition to your feline family.

First, consider the personality traits :

You need a cat that will match your cat’s energy level.
One of the most critical factors to consider when selecting a new cat is their personality traits. It's essential to find a cat whose energy level and temperament align with those of your current cat(s). If your current cat is calm and chill, don’t adopt a crazy kitten. Opt for a cat that shows the same temperament of calmness. Likewise, a more playful cat may appreciate a friend to play with.

Then, think about their age :

Adopting a cat of similar age may be better.
Considering the age of the prospective cat is crucial. Cats of similar ages tend to establish better bonds, as their activity levels and play styles are more likely to align. While kittens bring youthful energy and charm, adopting an adult cat allows you to judge their temperament more accurately, making it easier to assess compatibility with your existing pets.

Finally, have a look at their health :

Consider the health status of both your current cat and the potential adoptee.
Another crucial aspect to consider is the health status of both your current cat and the potential adoptee. It's imperative to ensure that both cats are in good health and free from any contagious diseases. If either cat has special medical needs, such as dietary restrictions or chronic health issues, it's essential to factor these considerations into your decision-making process.

Before bringing a new cat into your home, consider consulting with a veterinarian to assess their health status and ensure they are up-to-date on vaccinations and preventive care. Additionally, if your current cat has specific health concerns, discuss any potential risks or precautions with your veterinarian to mitigate potential health-related challenges.

By following these recommendations and taking the time to assess your current cat's needs and preferences, you can make an informed decision that enhances the well-being and happiness of your entire furry family.

How to introduce the new cat?

Introducing a new cat to your existing feline family members requires careful planning and consideration to make sure it’s a smooth transition. We’ve created a step-by-step guide, so keep it handy for the day you need it!

Isolation period (1-2 weeks)

Create a safe space for the new cat in a separate room that only your new furry baby has access to. Ensure they have all they need: spaces where they can hide, levels, as cats feel safer when they are high, such as our Scoop or our Orbitor, which provides both. If possible, bring all the toys and blankets they had at their previous place; the smell will help them adjust to your home.

1. Scent Swap (during the isolation period)
   After a few days, swap their bedding and toys with your current cat’s bedding and toys. This helps them get used to each other's scents and makes the first introduction easier.

2. Visual Introduction (after 1 or 2 weeks of isolation, depending on the cat)
   Allow the cats to see each other through a cracked door or a baby gate. Monitor their reactions – signs of curiosity or indifference are positive. Placing Feliway around your house is a great way to help your cat get used to each other.

3. Site Swapping (after positive visual introductions)
   Let the cats explore each other's territories under supervision. Rotate their access to different parts of the house to make sure they become used to each other's scents.
   

4. Slow Introduction (gradually over days, weeks)
   Introduce the cats on neutral ground. Remove all resources they could fight over, like toys or food. Make these introductions short and monitored; don’t wait for things to get bad to separate the cats. However, never end on a bad note; otherwise, the next time you introduce them, it will start on a bad note. If there is a fight, wait for them to settle before you separate them.
   

5. Last step : permanent coexistence!
   You’ve followed all the steps, and now you can finally let the cats coexist without constant supervision. Provide plenty of resources (food bowls, litter boxes, scratching posts) to avoid competition, and it should be fine!

If you feel like you’re struggling too much, please contact a vet or an animal behaviorist.

At Purrniture, we can help you choose the right cat furniture for your new furry baby, and we also host Adoption Days on Saturdays, so check our Facebook or Instagram to see when the next one is!