Adding a Second Cat: How to Avoid Starting a Cold War

Choose compatibly

Age and energy matter more than looks: a playful young cat torments a frail senior, and two confident adults may clash over territory. A kitten or easygoing adult usually integrates most smoothly.

The separate-room start

New cat gets their own room — litter, food, water, bed — for days to weeks. Swap bedding daily, then swap rooms so each explores the other's scent without confrontation. Rushing this stage causes most failed introductions.

First sightings

Feed on either side of a cracked door or gate, gradually closer over sessions. Hissing at first sight is normal commentary; flattened ears, growling and stalking mean back up a step. Short, positive, and boring is the goal.

Resources prevent wars

One litter box per cat plus one, in different locations; separate feeding stations; multiple water bowls, beds and high perches. Most 'cat fights' are resource disputes in disguise — abundance keeps the peace long after introductions end.