Cat lovers and breeders know very well that one cat is often not enough, and that there is sometimes a need to get another cat companion. However, this decision will affect the whole household and, above all, it is necessary to prepare the cat you already have for the arrival of a new family member. What should you do in this situation and what should you be aware of?
Cats are generally rather social creatures who like to play, and therefore the integration of a new addition into the family could be without major problems. However, it is certainly necessary to think about the right way to introduce both your pets to each other. “Both cats should certainly not be forced to be together, it is better if they have their own space and they learn to be with each other on their own," says Darina Tarabini.
Enough Attention and Starting Separately
However, the animals should always be watched over to avoid unwanted fights that might need to be brought into line. At the same time, the cats should spend their first days in the new home separately. Tarabini describes her experience: “First, I have the new family member in another room – for quarantine as well as to allow it to get used to the new environment”. At the same time, she adds that it is good to devote enough attention to the new cat to make it easier for it to get used to the new home and to let it know that it is welcome.
Sprays Might Help
Then, you can slowly let your older household member get used to the new addition to the family, perhaps by letting it get used to the smell of the new cat. This can for example happen if you let your pet smell your hands and clothes. If your cat reacts aggressively to this change, you can use various tools to mitigate the aggression and facilitate adjustment. These include, for example, various pheromone sprays or homeopathy.
Respect for Individuality
Cats’ different natures need to be respected. The breeder advises that the owner should always try to adapt to each animal. “I try not to force cats to do anything. Some of them need more attention, more cuddling and games, others are more independent and only want a full bowl. I always try to adapt to what a given cat needs and requires," she explains.
The Importance of One’s Personal Space
Also, it is important to maintain the personal space of each animal and to ensure that it has access to a bowl with water and dry food. It’s great to have a spot for food and sleeping for each family member separately, mainly in the beginning. Then, if they get along well, these boundaries don’t have to be so strict. In the beginning, every pet should know that they have their own spot to use.
Age (Doesn’t) Matter
Whether cats learn to live together usually depends on their natures rather than on their age. However, it is also true that younger cats are usually more active and adjust to changes better than older cats that need their peace and quiet. However, if the new household member is similar in nature to the old one, it is very likely that they will get along well.
Simon’s Cat, Grumpy Cat or Lil Bub, these are celebrities among cats almost every cat lover knows. However, I will introduce you to a few blogs related to cats in general where you can find interesting information, advice and experience from living...
Kennel cough is a common and easily spread dog disease. How is it transmitted, what progress does it have and how is it treated? Even though it cannot be transmitted to humans, it may endanger other pets in the household.
Winter doesn’t need to be a synonym for tiredness and lying on a sofa in the comfort of your home. This year, there wasn’t much snow. However, this doesn’t need to stand between you and your dog’s walking outside and having fun.
There are quite a few dog food cans on the market. What should we take into account to pick the right one?
Every proper cat lover is not just fine with having one cat companion at home. Some people collect cat figures, others fancy books about cats and some may like watching cat films. Do you like it, too? If you do, you might get some inspiration here.
Dogs of this small breed are curious and full of energy. They love being at the centre of attention, so they like to show off. They are loyal and sensitive companions which do not handle separation well.
You might have come across something about BFRs in discussions concerning a fearful dog, moving a cat or New Year’s Eve celebrations. Are you wondering what they are and what they can help your pet with?
In today’s hectic world, many people don’t dare to get a dog because of the financial burden it presents and the time it consumes. Others can’t have a dog because of their health issues. Nevertheless, they have an opportunity to spend some time with a...
Have you ever wondered how it is possible that dogs can wade through snow or run on ice with their bare feet and the paws don’t get frostbites? We know why!
The Oriental Shorthair cats are very similar to Siamese cats in terms of their appearance as well as character. These elegant cats are suitable for extroverts who are looking for a companion at all times. This is because you will always know about...
Is rice, i.e. cereals, good for a dog’s diet? Is it just a filler or a valuable source of nutrients?
A study has shown that dogs have a certain talent for languages that had only been associated with people before. Their skills for the recognition of human speech are far more complex than we have been aware of so far.
