Introducing a Second Cat Without a War

Cats are territorial and do not form groups as readily as dogs. A rushed introduction can create years of conflict.

Scent before sight

Keep the new cat in a separate room for several days. Swap bedding between the two. Feed them on either side of the closed door, gradually moving the bowls closer.

Then sight, then contact

Introduce visually through a gap or gate. Only allow free contact once both eat calmly in sight of each other, which can take two to four weeks.

Resource maths

One litter tray per cat plus one, in different places. Multiple feeding stations, water bowls and elevated resting spots. Most cat-to-cat aggression is competition, not personality.

Warning signs

Blocking access to the litter tray or doorway, staring, and one cat stopping eating. Separate and go back a stage.