best way to get cats used to each other?

Question

I just got a new kitten today (boy) and brought him home. I have another cat about 7 mo. old (girl) and she's a little defensive of him. I knew that is was going to take time for them to get used to each other and I want to find the best way to make sure they have a good relationship together.I already have different food dishes in different areas, but i can't afford a separate litter box at the moment. I am keeping a good eye on them and giving them attention but not too much. What more should I do?

Answer 1

I pretty much did the same thing. As a female, believe it or not, she's going to be more territorial. What I liked doing, for my cats (which were both males), was having them lay on the same comfy 'beds'. This way, they got used to just smelling the other cat. Also, slight confrontation can be good -- but NEVER force them into seeing each other. I mean, let them look at each other from across the room, but if you put them next to each other they can fight and hurt one another. Because they're so young, it'll just be a few weeks at most before they get used to each other. Took mine just a month, and they were both 9 months old atm. Hope that helps you out, and good luck! Oh! Remember to reward them if they don't hiss or show any mean signs when seeing the other cat with treats! That also helps..

Answer 2

It's always good to start them in separate rooms, so they can get used to each other's scent under the door. I always close the "newer" cat in the bathroom for at least a few hours. If I don't have a second litter box, I make one out of a box or box top.

If you can keep them separated while you sleep, at least the first night, they will probably be well used to each other's scent by morning. This is not to say they won't still fight - but they should move past the hissing and puffing stage soon.

Gotta say it, if you haven't already, please do the right thing and spay or neuter your kitties. There are often animal shelters and services around who will do it for free, or at a steep discount.

Answer 3

Keep a squirt gun handy. Since you can't afford separate litter boxes then you will just have to let
them work it out. Use the squirt gun to break up
battles. In time they will become good friends.

Answer 4

well just so you know some cats never get along like my kids my girl 3yrs is very territorial and beats up my chance 1yr every chance she gets id give it some time though you might get lucky but keep in mind some cats like people just dont get along but one thing i would suggest is to encourage play with both of them either with you or each other a good way for them to bond

Answer 5

Just let them be. Don't try to force them on each other. They will make up in their own time and before you know it, they will be the best of friends.