If you’re thinking of bringing home a kitten or cat to add to your existing cat family, there are some things you can do to make it easier on everyone—human or feline—involved.

If introduced the wrong way, the cat atmosphere can become a hostile battleground.  To keep the fur from flying, keep these things in mind.

Things To Ease the Introductions

• Do keep the new cat in a private space for a few days
• Do let the existing cats sniff at the door
• Do divide your attention evenly between the cats
• Do ensure adequate playtime for the older cats
• Do make the introductions slowly, a few minutes at a time
• Do spray feline pheromones, such as Feliway, to ease stress
• Do provide separate food and water bowls
• Do provide one litter box for each cat in the home
• Do take the new kitten to the vet right away for a check-up

The more at ease the older cats feel, the less threatening they will find the newcomer.  Let the older cats smell the newcomer on your hands, and do keep them separate for at least a week.

Things That Will Make the Transition Harder

• Do Not force the cats into the same living space right away
• Do Not put the cats face to face until they are ready
• Do Not leave the new and old cats unsupervised
• Do Not yell or hit when growling and hissing occurs
• Do Not exclude the older cats from playtime
• Do Not change food or litter brands right away
• Do Not exclude the older cats from their territories

All your feline friends will need to stake out their individual territories, and there will be spats.  Discipline with a rattle can or a water squirt to keep tensions at a minimum. 

Some cats take readily to playmates, and some cats take longer to come around.  Be patient, and before you know it, your new kitty will feel right at home!