I think I introduced my cats too quickly! Can I re-do the experience?

[Natalie Meola]

Meo (the new cat) is 9 mos and Ciao Ciao (the current cat) is 4.5 yrs old. I started them off in separate rooms. Meo was very loving, purring and rubbing up to anyone who came into the room. Ciao Ciao was curious when she heard meows and would smell her under the door. I swopped scents the first day but neither cared. The next day or two I bought two baby gates thinking this would help them realize there is another cat in their home since they hardly cared. They hissed and growled, but never attacked. They smelled each other threw the gate and seemed to be progressing rather quickly. Then the next day I let Meo out. This was all less then a week!!!!!! Ciao Ciao actually doesn't mind Meo (even though this was HER territory) It's Meo who initiates the hissing by growling and scaring Ciao Ciao. So Ciao Ciao does it back. NOW Meo is having trouble recognizing MY scent and sometimes smells my hand and backs up!!!!! I just want to start all over! Is this possible?

 

[Kat Meow]

Yes, Try to keep them separate, and keep swapping scents by rubbing one with a towel and giving the towel to the other. eventually, let one cat out and let him be able to communicate UNDER THE DOOR. That way they don't and can't fight. If you have any way to let them see eachother through glass, that would be the next step. Eventually let them see eachother realtime and see if they accept, if not, separate oncemore. Allow PLENTY of hiding places for both cats. Feed separately until they are best buddies. They may just have to establish pecking order. I wish you luck~

 

[Purple Girl]

ya, i think so. I wouldnt worry about it, they will have to go through it to get used to each other

 

[Connie S]

absolutely. Put the newcomer back in the room. Remember this isn't a punishment and try to make it as good of a thing as possible. Yummy treats, lots of love, etc.

You want to work with Meo.. if she starts hissing, distract her with a firm NO (not yelling, just firm and disappointed) and or asking her not to. It seems silly to ask a cat to do something, but you'll be surprised how well it works.

Also you want to work to build up the self confidence of the resident cat Ciao Ciao. Tell her it is OK to stand up for herself, and not to let Meo intimidate her. Ask her to help you train Meo in how the house works.

I also recommend the book Cat vs Cat. Very helpful in understanding how cats interact and what you can do to help them get along.