Introducing cats to each other

In short: Anyone bringing a new cat home to an existing one should get the animals used to each other gradually. Putting them together in a rush often leads to stress, hissing and lasting conflict.

In more detail: Cats are territorial and rely heavily on scent. A careful introduction over days or weeks gives both animals time to accept the newcomer as part of their territory.

In detail

• Health first: The new cat should be checked by a vet before the first contact so that no infectious diseases or parasites are passed on.
• A room of its own: At first the newcomer gets a separate room with food, water, a litter tray, a scratching post and a hiding place.
• Swap scents: Exchange blankets or toys between the cats so that they get to know the unfamiliar scent without direct contact.
• Visual contact: Later the animals can see each other through a mesh barrier or a gap in the door, ideally combined with something positive such as food.
• Short encounters: The first direct meetings should be short and supervised, and ended before the mood turns.
• Double the resources: Several feeding spots, sleeping places and raised areas reduce competition; a common rule of thumb is one more litter tray than there are cats in the household.
• Normal signals: Occasional hissing or growling in the first days is usual; persistent serious fights, on the other hand, are a reason to go back a step.
• Suitable partners: Age, temperament and activity level should match as far as possible; a very playful kitten can overwhelm a calm older cat.
• Get help: If problems persist for weeks, the vet or cat behaviour specialists can help (katzen-verhalten-verstehen, katzenklo-und-katzensand-richtig-waehlen).