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In reply to the discussion: Seeking "cat-whisperer" advice ---- RE: New Cat in the house, compatibility with my older cat, etc [View all]mnhtnbb
(31,388 posts)Siglinda's Advice for Settling your New Goathouse Cat into your Home
Siglinda has adopted out hundreds of cats and kittens from the Refuge as well as taking care of many different cats and kittens in her home. She is an expert at introducing a new cat into a strange environment and her method has worked for hundreds of cats. She strongly urges you to try this approach when adopting a new cat. It reduces the stress on you, your family, and the cat. Cats that are not properly introduced can have behavioral problems so please take the time to give your cat the best start it can have.
Get a medium sized dog crate (we can often loan you one).
Set it up in an area in your home where the family and other pets congregate.
Cover the crate on 3 sides and on top with a blanket or towels.
Put in a litter pan with our litter (given to you when you leave with your new cat).
Put in food and water bowls (food similar to what the cat is eating at the Refuge will be given to you when you leave with your new cat).
Put in comfortable bedding. Add in something with your scent on it (worn t-shirt or used towel).
Upon coming home with your new cat, put them into the crate. This lets the cat acclimate to the scents, sounds and routines of your house in a protected and safe environment. Meanwhile, because some the bedding contains your scent, it lets the other animals in your home smell your scent on the new cat.
Feed them twice a day and give them fresh water every day. We strongly recommend giving glucosamine and Vitamin C to your cat to avoid painful urinary infections and blockages, especially for male cats. We do this for all the cats at the refuge.
After a week or so, open the cage door and let the cat come out at his/her own speed.
Remember patience, patience, patience is the key to bringing a new cat into your home. It can sometimes take several weeks for a new cat to adjust.
This approach lets your current pets get to know the new resident as well as let the new cat know the smells and sounds of your home. It's better than isolating them in a room for a week and then let them out for the first time with the other pets who could then have territorial issues.
http://www.goathouserefuge.org/adopt-a-cat/