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Cats/Introducting 2 unfamilliar cats into a new home

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Expert: - 6/28/2008


Question
Hi, My name is Megan and I am in the process of moving into a new house with my boyfriend.  We both have a cat and are worried about how to introduce them.  We thought to introduce them into their own "safe rooms" in the house then let them out later on that evening and let them slowly get used to each other.  Does this sound like a good idea?  Both cats are already eating the same cat food so should we combine the food containers or leave them separated.  Also the cats both have the covered style litter boxes so can we do with just one box or do we need to keep two?  I heard about using Feliway (or Comfort Zone with Feliway) a plug-in product that is supposed to relieve stress for cats, what is your opinion on this? Is it worth the $50 dollar cost? If you have any other recommendations I would be very grateful for your help.
Thank You,
Megan

Answer
Hi Megan,

The plan you have is a good start. This is what most cat intro protocols advise. Here's a link to a another one that has some more things you can do. http://www.aspca.org/site/PageServer?pagename=pets_introducingcat
Feliway is a hit or miss item. Most times it works but there are times it doesn't. I would wait to get it and see how the cats are on their own. Two litter boxes in two different areas is a good thing to do. You want to make sure that one doesn't trap the other in the box.

Feed them separate until they are good with each other. The biggest thing you can do is show each one attention. And remember, it takes time. Good luck.

Ciao, Karen

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Karen Craft

Expertise

I can give advice on cat behavior. I can help about newborn kitten care. I can help with senior cat care. I can answer questions about cat proofing a home or making it cat friendly. I can answer diet questions. I can answer home treatments questions for cats. At present I have 13 cats in home and two ferals outside. And there's always room for one more!

Experience

I have over 40 year's experience with cats. Father was a veterinarian and I assisted him in his work. I have 15 cats at present. Most are shelter or feral rescues. I have one purebred cat. I have done cat rescues and foster care. Some thoughts to carry with you. A Cat's 10 Commandments My life is likely to last 15-20 years. Any separation from you is likely to be painful. Give me time to understand what you want of me. Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well-being. Don't be angry with me for long and don't lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends, your entertainments. But I have only you. Talk to me. Even if I don't understand your words, I do understand your voice when speaking to me. Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget it. Before you swat me, before you strike me, remember that I have teeth that could draw blood. And claws to strike back. And yet I choose not to attack you. If I don't act right then have me checked to see what is wrong. Please take care of me when I grow old. You too will grow old. On the difficult journey, on the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please. Never say you can't bear to watch. Don't make me face this alone. Everything is easier for me if you are there. Because I love you so. Take a moment today to thank God for your pets. Enjoy and take good care of them. Life would be a much duller, less joyful thing without God's critters. Pass this on.

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I have an A.A.S.

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