We just adopted a kitten tonight and I'm not sure how to introduce it to our other animals. We currently have 2 big dogs and a cat. It's been years since I got a new pet and I just don't remember how I did this way back then. Right now, I'm laying in bed watching tv with the kitten under the bed. I have the door open with one of my dogs just outside the door. I'm just letting the cat do what he's comfortable with...whether it's hanging out under the bed, or roaming free around the bedroom. The cat doesn't seem afraid of me, but, is very hesitant to befriend the other animals. What else should I do?
Also, I have the cat box and food here in my bedroom for now. Should I leave it here or should I show the cat where I normally keep the food and box? Just an FYI, the cat has not seen any other part of the house at all, so if I put him down, he will be completely lost. All he knows as of now is this room. What do I do?
Thanks in advance!
I have always let animals get used to each other by sniffing under the door at first, takes a while for everyone to settle in and accept a new housemate = )
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I have always let animals get used to each other by sniffing under the door at first, takes a while for everyone to settle in and accept a new housemate = )
We have done a couple things with new cats to introduce to the older cats and dog. They did stay in another room for about a week so we could keep a close eye on introducations and make sure everyone was good. Some needed less time. We did sniffing under doors, feeding on opposite sides of a closed door, trading bedding so they could all smell each other. We also would put one in a carrier or crate for the dog for a few minutes and let everyone say hi. Then it was just loose with room for hiding and always treats for everyone for good behavior.
Have fun with your new addition.
I would definitely keep him in one room by himself at least for a day or two. I always let my pets see each other through a baby gate first. That way they can see and smell but not hurt each other. If things are going well then you can do the face to face thing.
My mother just brought home a new kitten when we are way over our animal quota. We keep things clean and litter boxes for all, scoop them regular.
To get the cats used to each other it's best to clearly define territories. One of our cats is upstairs and that's his domain. 2 of our cats prefer the front room, kitchen and 2 bedrooms. But mostly, I'm their person. So I am not letting them see me with the kitten much. This kitten is staying in my mothers room and sleeping in a small kennel when she's not being supervised. This way the other cats can see that she's not taking over the house. But from time to time we bring her out when we are holding her and they go back and visit. They are used to the idea she is here. But she's not in their faces, taking their kitty box, and heaven forbid not sleeping with me. I sleep with 2 and sometimes 3 cats now.
Whenever I introduce a new cat to my house (I have done this twice in the past two years) I set them up in the family room - litter box is already there, add food and water bowls. It also has lots of nice hidey hole corners under the end tables. The other cats and dogs all wander in and sniff and look, and the new one can either sniff and greet or hiss and swat. What I have noticed is that at night, when my son and I and the other pets go to bed on the other side of the house, and it is quiet, the new kitty comes out and explores.
These last two cats have been more skittish coming in then I was used to (too many foster homes and sudden changes in their little lives) - so it took them anywhere from a week to 3 weeks to assimilate into the household.
Since they are in the family room, and it is the room that my son and I hang out in, they get lots of time with us, but still have a safe haven while they adjust.
Pets will adjust on their own - just remember to give the new kitty and your existing pets lots of attention. The new one so it comes to know you as its human and the existing ones so they don't get jealous.
Your new kitty will venture out at his own pace. Just be patient.
Oh, and congratulations on your new addition !!!!!
I would let the dogs sniff the kitten (she may swat though) or have a blanket or something the kitten lays on let the dogs and other cat smell. I got my 1 1/2 yr old cat when she was 2 months old I think, she was tiny. My oldest cat was pretty pissed about it lol I kept them apart (not on purpose) but would have my oldest smell whatever the kitten laid on. Soon the oldest cat would smell the kitten from a distance and it got closer until they were sleeping together. You could carry the kitten around the house and set the kitten down to explore, but not leave him/her so he/she won't freak out.
The litter box and food isn't a problem. Cats are smart. When you move it you will just show her where it is (I've only ever had to show them once) and they just go back. For now with the kitten getting used to the new place it is perfectly fine. And since this is the kitten's first night, he/she will be very timid. They eventually come out, they take their own pace. Being in one room doesn't last with a curious kitten. I would definitely do the blanket smelling thing for the big dogs before the kitten comes out so they don't think she's a snack lol.
