How to make a cat accept another kitten? - briefly
To help your cat accept another kitten, introduce them gradually and create positive associations. Allow the cat to sniff the kitten's bedding or toys before their first meeting, and reward calm behavior with treats or praise during interactions.
How to make a cat accept another kitten? - in detail
Introducing a new kitten into a household with an existing cat requires careful planning and patience to ensure a smooth transition. Here are some detailed steps to facilitate this process:
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Prepare Your Home: Before bringing the new kitten home, create a separate space where it can stay for the initial period. This room should have all necessary amenities such as food, water, litter box, and comfortable bedding. Ensure that your resident cat cannot access this area directly.
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Swap Scents: Prior to their first meeting, swap items with the cats' scents on them. For example, rub a towel on the new kitten and place it in the resident cat's favorite spot, and vice versa. This helps both animals get accustomed to each other's scent.
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Gradual Introduction: After a few days of scent swapping, allow your resident cat to explore the area where the new kitten has been staying while keeping the kitten in a secure carrier or separate room. This allows the cats to see and smell each other without direct contact.
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Supervised Meetings: When both cats seem calm around the closed door separating them, it's time for their first meeting. Open the door slightly and let them interact while closely supervising. Be prepared to intervene if any aggressive behavior is displayed.
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Positive Reinforcement: Reward both cats with treats and praise whenever they exhibit calm and friendly behavior towards each other. This positive association will encourage them to continue interacting peacefully.
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Consistency in Feeding: Feed the cats separately at first, ensuring that neither feels threatened or competitive about food. Gradually move their feeding areas closer together until they can comfortably eat side by side.
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Create Positive Associations: Make sure that every interaction between the cats is positive. For example, if the resident cat hisses or growls at the new kitten, separate them and try again later with a smaller, controlled interaction.
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Patience and Time: Integrating a new kitten into your cat's territory takes time, sometimes even weeks or months. Do not rush the process as it can lead to setbacks. Remain patient and provide plenty of individual attention to both cats to reassure them of their importance in your life.
By following these detailed steps, you can help ensure a harmonious relationship between your resident cat and the new kitten.