Answers from Zootooers
Answered by Laura M. (Webster) 9 months ago
Here's a suggestion my vet gave me when I introduced a new shelter kitten into my 3-cat household: Rub a sock (or rag) across one cat's face, and then rub the other cat's face with the same sock. This transfers pheromones and gets them used to each others' smell. You will probably have to do this several times, so be patient. It really worked like a charm for me.
Another suggestion if the sock trick doesn't work: Try Feliway. This is a pheromone product that calms cats. You can get it either as a spray or a diffuser. As a bonus, Feliway helps discourage spraying and scratching behaviors.
Finally, don't worry too much about the hissing and growling as long as the cats aren't too aggressive. This is just their way of sorting out the new social order.
Answered by Donna A. (frankiesmom) 9 months ago
Since you are not currently living with your parents, you might try leaving a towel or some material with the kittens scent on it at your parents home when the kitten isn't there. That way when the kitten comes over it won't be a new scent all the time. Try not to force the kitten and the cats to get along that will only hinder the process. Maybe bring the kitten with you but not let them have face-to-face meetings at the first few visits. Try and leave a fresh towel with the kittens scent after each visit. Introducing cats takes time and trying force it will not help.
Answered by Jill R. (DocJill) 9 months ago
Cats are tough to introduce new cats to. You have to take it very slow and do it in steps. A cat expert friend of mine told me once to do the following when introducing new kitties:
1. Keep the new kitty in an area like the bathroom with the door shut for a few days. This way your older cats can smell her but not see her. When they seem at ease you can..
2. Let them see her but not touch for a few days. This can be done by placing the new cat behind a screen for a few days. Your older cats can see her but they can't touch her.
3. Let the new kitty out for short periods of time supervised closely by you.
4. Introduce to your cats totally when you feel that the other cats are at a point where they don't hiss or act reactive to the new kitty.
