How to introduce a new cat to your other pets
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- Dr. Katherine Miller , Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist
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Dr. Katherine Miller
Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist
The truth about cats and dogs is that they CAN get along, if introduced to one another correctly. And even anti-social kitties can learn to get along with other cats, when you follow the advice of Dr Katherine Miller of the ASPCA.
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Instructions
How to introduce a new cat to your other pets
Already have pets and want to add a new cat to your family? Think through the new cat’s needs so you can anticipate, plan ahead and make everything go smoothly.- If your existing pets have lived with another cat before, they may accept a new cat more readily. If not, it will be harder to predict their reaction to the new cat.
- A new older cat can be an easier fit if you already have a pet at home. They may find a kitten to be a nuisance and too rambunctious.
- Dogs can accept a cat into the household just as well as a cat can—sometimes even more so if the dog is older or has previous experience living with cats.
- Many adoption services, such as the ASPCA, can provide advice and information if the cat you have chosen will fit well with other pets.
- Take the transition slowly. It can take many weeks for the new cat to feel at home.
- Keep the new cat isolated in a room or crate at first and give the newcomer time to adjust. Cats can smell and hear very well, so even if they don’t see the other animals they will become familiar with them while isolated.
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