Can you bring a kitten into a home with an older cat?

Can you bring a kitten into a home with an older cat?

While older cats will occasionally take to a new kitten right away, they typically need a little time to adjust to the changes. Sometimes cats never fully accept a new kitten but will simply coexist, keeping to themselves away from the other cat in the house.

How long does it take for a cat to get used to a new cat in the house?

It takes most cats eight to 12 months to develop a friendship with a new cat. Although some cats certainly become close friends, others never do. Many cats who don’t become buddies learn to avoid each other, but some cats fight when introduced and continue to do so until one of the cats must be re-homed.

Should I get a kitten if I already have a cat?

Kittens are more likely to adjust easily to each other fairly quickly. An adult cat might get along better with a kitten rather than another cat of the same age. This doesn’t mean two older cats can’t get along. You might want to match them based on personality and energy levels and be sure you introduce them slowly.

Will an older cat hurt a new kitten?

A kitten under 16 weeks old is a baby, physically weak, and can easily be hurt by an older cat. So, your primary concern is for protecting the kitten. This is not typical, though, especially for adult cats who never had any dealings with little kittens. Most adult cats don’t act like mother substitutes to kittens.

Should I ignore my kitten crying at night?

In conclusion, when your cat meows at night, you must ignore it completely and perfectly in order not to encourage the behaviour. Keeping the cat busy at night may prevent it from getting hungry or finding creative ways of getting your attention.

What if my cat hates my new kitten?

If your cat hasn’t been used to living with others, he may find it very hard to cope with a new kitten. You can then try associating the kitten’s scent with a very special food treat for the older cat, so he begins to get used to the kitten’s scent, and doesn’t associate it with a negative experience.

Should I let my cat growl at my kitten?

If your cat is hissing at the new kitten then do not panic or worry as it is considered a normal cat behavior. It takes time to adjust to each other and for older cats that are used to being the center of attention, having a new kitten is not easy to accept and handle.

Will my cat hate me if I get a new kitten?

Do cats get jealous of new kittens? Yes, cats do get jealous of new kittens, especially if the first cat feels that she is getting less attention than before when she was the only cat at home. Cats form their hierarchies and can become angry if their position is threatened by the newcomer.

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