November 19th is Get A Pal For Your Pet Day! If you’re considering getting a second kitty, this is a purrfect time to do so. A Frisco, TX vet offers some advice on adding another cat to your home below..
Choose Wisely
You’ll also need to let your resident kitty weigh in. If Fluffy has always lived with other cats, she may not be too upset about finding herself with a feline roommate. A furball that has always been queen of the house, however, may be less than thrilled. You’ll also want to consider both kitties’ ages. If your resident furball is a senior, a frisky kitten may be too much for her. Consider getting two kittens: the babies can play together while the older cat naps.
Make Introductions Carefully
First impressions are a very big deal to our furry friends. You’ll need to make introductions slowly and carefully. Keep the cats separated at first, and let them get used to each other’s smells. This will also give them time to ponder the fact that there’s another feline in town. Once they’ve settled a bit, you can introduce them.
Provide Plenty Of Resources
Cats can get quite jealous, and are definitely not above fighting over things like food, toys, and napping spots. Make sure you have enough to go around! That includes litterboxes as well. Our feline pals really don’t care to share bathrooms. It’s best to offer one box per furball, plus at least one extra.
Don’t Play Favorites
It can be tempting to shower a new pet with attention. (This goes double for people who are adopting kittens, because baby cats are ridiculously cute.) However, your resident feline may be glaring at Mittens from across the room. If Fluffy feels neglected, she will definitely harbor resentment! Pay equal attention to both of your furry pals.
Make Interactions Positive
One thing that’s very important is helping your kitties form positive associations about one another. Dual play sessions can be great for this! Giving Fluffy and Mittens toys, treats, and catnip together can also help.
Give It Time
Don’t be too worried if your furry friends don’t immediately become bffs. As long as they aren’t fighting, this is normal. It can take kitties as much as a year to get used to one another!
As your Frisco, TX pet hospital, we’re here to help. Contact us anytime!
