Your cats may end up being the best of friends, or they may just barely tolerate each other. Here are some final tips to keep the peace between your cats:
Make sure there are always enough food, litter, and toys available for everyone. Why give your cats something to compete over?
Split your time and attention between the cats as evenly as possible. There is much debate over whether animals truly experience emotions, but any pet owner will swear that animals are capable of being jealous, and it’s not pretty.
If you keep only one litter box, and one of the cats seems to prefer using the carpet behind the couch, consider setting up a second box. It’s possible one of the cats has "claimed" the box as her own and won’t let the other cat use it. Cats can also be shy when it comes to this area, and they may simply be uncomfortable sharing it.
Try to involve your new cat in some of the games or activities you have always done with your first cat. Playing with and grooming both cats together can help them to feel that they don’t have to compete for your attention, and you are all one big happy family.
If the cats simply won’t get along, they may split your home into two separate territories. Don’t try to force them to share; it will only make things worse. Again, just make sure both cats have access to everything that they need.
As if there weren’t already enough good reasons, have your cats spayed or neutered. Cats that are fixed are less territorial and aggressive.
Of course you don’t need to follow all of these suggestions to be successful, but cats can be unpredictable and stubborn, so anything you can do to make the process easier for them is worth it. With a little effort and patience, you can bring another cat into your home without upsetting your relationship with the feline who is already the center of your attention.