You are here:

Cats/Introducing a new cat

Advertisement


Question
Hi I'm wondering if you can help? We have taken on a new cat he was my sisters but her other cat died and he was missing her and kept looking for her and going near a busy road. We have three other cats at home one old cat who took to the new cat fine, a young cat who is coming round but our third which is a female cat isn't coming round to the cat at all. He keeps chasing her and she gets scared and hisses at him, she wont move from the window. Is there anything you could suggest to try?

         Your sincerely
         Laura

Answer
Hi Laura,

Here's a good protocol for introducing the two together. Since your others are accepting of the new guy I would just concentrate on the one who is having problems.

http://www.sniksnak.com/cathealth/aggression4.html

You need to stop the aggressive behavior. If you see him starrting to posture towards her redirect his attention away. You can also try some Feliway Comfort Zone. It mimics a cat's ahppy pheromones and might calm them down. Also this stuff is pretty good. You can try this until everyone is sorted out.

http://www.petnaturals.com/vitamins_supplements/calming-support-softchews-cats.p

It will take time. But since the others are ok these two should fall in line. Good luck and take care.

Ciao, Karen

Cats

All Answers


Answers by Expert:


Ask Experts

Volunteer


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.

Education/Credentials
I have an A.A.S.

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.