Thinking of adopting another cat or kitten to keep your cat company? Check out our tips for keeping a happy multi-cat household!
Cats, by nature, are quite solitary animals – they will sometimes live in family groups where multiple females raise kittens together, but generally prefer low-intensity interactions with other cats in the home environment. Despite this, it is possible to have more than one happy cat living in the same house.
Introducing A New Cat Into The House
- Consider the type of cats you are trying to introduce – if you have a very elderly cat, or one who struggles with mobility, they may find a young or boisterous cat quite overwhelming and energetic
- It is generally easier to introduce a kitten than a new adult cat, as they seem less of a threat
- Neutered cats are more likely to be territorial and challenge other cats
- Sibling pairs may be more likely to get along without difficulty
- Consider the space available for a second (or third!) cat – do they have enough space to be separate from each other if they choose?
- Keep your new cat in a separate room for the first few days. You can swap blankets and bedding between your cats to allow them to get used to each other’s scent, and gradually start introducing them through a barrier, such as patio doors or a baby gate
- Consider using a pheromone diffuser to help relax both cats during the introduction process
Keeping The Peace
- Make sure that all the cats in the household have access to resources without having to compete for them – this includes food, water, litter trays and access to outside (if available)
- A standard rule is to have one litter tray per cat, plus one extra. Try to spread them across different rooms so your cats don’t have to look at each other when using them!
- Neuter any kittens in the home once they are old enough – this helps to reduce territorial behaviour such as spraying
- Provide areas where cats can have time to themselves if they wish – cats love to be up high, so elevated beds and cat trees can be great for this
How Can I Tell If My Cats Get Along?
Cats which are socially bonded will display behaviours such as co-sleeping, mutual grooming and rubbing up against each other. Contrastingly, cats which are not getting along may:
- Hiss or swipe at each other
- Avoid being in the same room
- Stare at each other
- Block each other from resources
Unfortunately, cats who are stressed can sometimes develop health conditions like cystitis or overgrooming. If you notice any changes in your cat’s health, it is best to make an appointment with one of our vets, who can provide relevant care and guidance to keep everybody happy at home!
If you have any questions, be sure to contact our team at Valley Vet Care at info@valleyvetcare.co.uk.
