Introducing new cats to your home
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If you must ship your cat by cargo, it’s essential to keep your cat secure in its carrier and include identification. A cushy carrier such as a SleepyPod is comfortable and can be strapped in using the seat belt. Again, be sure to include ID and a jacket and leash for extra security.
It may take a few days and sometimes much longer for your new cat to become comfortable in your home, especially if you already have other animals. So be sure to give your new cat ample time to gradually get used to its new surroundings. With a toy in each hand , engage the cats in interactive play using a separate toy for each cat. Ideal toys are a fishing rod toy which has a rod with a long string and feathers attached or a cat laser light.
How do I prepare my cat for moving?
Close the lid – Keep toilet lids down so curious cats won’t climb up and fall in. Wherever you get your new feline from, you will want to stock up on essential cat supplies. Use this checklist to help make sure you have everything you need for having a new cat in the house. Check with the airlines for their policies and cost, including carrier dimensions.
Each cat should have her own food and water bowl, litter box, scratching post, bed, etc. Feed the cats near the door that separates them so they learn that coming together (even though they can’t see each other) results in a pleasant experience. In addition to regular cat food, feed the cats extra-special treats near the door as well, like tiny pieces of tuna, salmon, cheese, chicken or liver.
Toys For The Kid Who Loves Everything To Do With Horses
Take your new cat to your veterinarian within the first week after adoption for a routine check-up. Your vet can help you determine what flea and tick medication will work best for your cat, as well as giving your cat any needed and essential vaccinations. Cats are generally very independent and are typically able to adapt to almost any situation. However, every cat has its own, unique personality; just like you, any pre-existing animals, and your home have their own, unique personalities, too. A hiss here or there is not a concern, so long as the cat is otherwise showing some positive indications as well.
Carry the newcomer out of his base camp, put him in the bathroom, and shut the door. We are located in Lynnwood, Washington, with a satellite cat adoption center in Seattle’s University District. Your cat’s nails require some regular grooming in order to keep them healthy and your cat happy.
How To Introduce A New Cat To Another Cat
With a little bit of planning and support, your home will have two cuddly fur babies that will be friends in no time. It’s a good idea to separate the cats at first when you will not be around to supervise them. You want to ensure that you see all their interactions and know exactly what is going on. After you feel that the cats are getting along, you can ease up on this step. The new cat spends a few days in the room, then a few in the house, then back in the room — while the resident cat is in the opposite location.
For instance, make sure you don’t have any plants or flowers around the house that can be toxic to cats. Lilies can be particularly dangerous to cats and cause kidney failure if exposed. You can use this list of toxic plants at the ASPCA’s website for reference. If you’re unsure if you should take the cat in, you can discuss it with your vet, who can offer medical insights and experience to help determine the best course of action. If you decide to welcome the cat into your home, be sure to get a full medical check-up right away.
Step 3: Swapping Food Bowls
Senior cats who can need more quiet time may not be a good match for a houseful of rambunctious kids. Lock up your cabinets – Cats are clever and can sometimes open cabinet doors by swiping their paws underneath. Consider using childproof locks to help keep your cat from getting into cleaning supplies and other harmful chemicals.
With both cats now acutely aware of the other’s scent, it’s time to let them actually see each other. The work you’ve done up to this point has resulted in predictable behavior between the two cats and a cordial “scent handshake” at every meal. It’s a mistake, though, to assume that they will be just as cordial once the visual element is introduced. Instead, begin at the beginning and reset the Challenge Line; take the feeding line back all the way to where they can see one another and eat with little or no disruption.
By providing a slow and steady introduction, the result can be rewarding for both your feline companions. Here are a few tips and precautionary steps to help make cat-cat introductions pleasant for everyone involved. Within seven days, normally, the hissing and aggravation in the presence of the other should calm. Of course, the best way to further reinforce the good transitional behaviors is through treats. Be sure and constantly reassure and reinforce the positive things when the two felines meet, which will quickly cement this new relationship.
Reward them with treats for any positive or neutral interactions. At the slightest indication of a negative interaction distract and redirect the cats with a toy. Aim to end the interaction on a positive note, then gradually extend the amount of time that you allow the cats to be in the same area under close supervision. If this is not possible, it may be advisable to start the introduction process earlier. For the new cat, this may help to speed up adaption to the new environment and, for the resident cat, it may help prevent any feelings that its territory is being threatened. This allows your cats to become more familiar with each other’s smells, while also providing your new cat with some time to explore the home.
If there is a fight in which one of the cats is traumatized or injured , then the match will likely not work out. If you have a very laid-back, elderly or frail kitty at home, it is best to avoid kittens and very playful or rambunctious cats. Join us to advocate for improved animal welfare laws for the animals and people of Iowa. Cats are great companions and can usually adapt to almost any environment in a relatively short amount of time. However, there are many things to consider before introducing one into your home.
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