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How to Introduce a New Cat to Your Existing Cat

By Julia WrenfieldUpdated August 4, 20261 min read
Evidence-based · Sources checked
{"en": "Two cats separated by a door, one sniffing underneath as part of introduction process", "es": "Dos gatos separados por una puerta, uno oliendo debajo como parte del proceso de presentaci\u00f3n", "fr": "Deux chats s\u00e9par\u00e9s par une porte, l'un renifle dessous lors de l'introduction", "de": "Zwei Katzen durch eine T\u00fcr getrennt, eine schn\u00fcffelt darunter w\u00e4hrend der Einf\u00fchrung", "nl": "Twee katten gescheiden door een deur, een snuffelt eronder tijdens de introductie", "pt": "Dois gatos separados por uma porta, um farejando embaixo durante o processo de apresenta\u00e7\u00e3o", "it": "Due gatti separati da una porta, uno che annusa sotto durante il processo di introduzione"}
A slow, structured introduction gives both cats the best chance of coexistence.

Step 1: Separate Rooms (Days 1-7)

New cat gets own room with food, water, litter, bedding. Cats adjust to scent under the door.

Step 2: Scent Swapping (Days 3-7)

Two cats eating from bowls on opposite sides of a closed door during scent swapping

Swap bedding. Feed both cats on either side of the closed door.

Step 3: Visual Introduction (Days 7-14)

Open door a crack or use baby gate. Short sessions with feeding nearby.

Step 4: Supervised Time Together

Once both cats show calm curiosity, allow short supervised sessions with hiding spots available.

#introducing new cat to existing cat#cat health#feline nutrition#forpetshealthcare

Sources & further reading

This article is based on peer-reviewed veterinary research and reputable animal-health sources. Explore the underlying science in our Research Library.

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Disclaimer:This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute veterinary advice. Always consult a qualified veterinarian for your pet's health concerns.

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