Are You Thinking of a Second Cat?

Sometimes we get the idea that our cat is lonesome and needs a friend. Getting a second cat can be a trying experience for both you and the resident cat. Getting a second cat takes patience and an understanding that what you think is for the good of the household may not be held in that regard by the resident cat. In an ideal world the getting acquainted time period would go through without a hitch and your two cats are now best friends. If that happens consider yourself very blessed and you will not have to read any further. However, if it is nip and tuck and the friendship is lukewarm, please continue down the page. The secret here is to keep them separated, (by gate, carrier or door) but still able to know that there is two and not one in the house.

Even though the resident cat is accustomed to the new cat’s presence still keep them separated, when you are not at home to supervise or when you retire for the night.

Cats are not like dogs, dogs are pack animals and enjoy social “dog” contact, cats are by nature solitary creatures and they take their time making friends. It is important during this getting “really acquainted process,” you keep a few tricks up your sleeve in case you have to step in and referee.

One thing to keep in mind is that cats have a tendency to yowl, hiss, snarl and growl when they are establishing the household rules. They may even get into a small paw slapping routine, they are not really hurting each other, they are just creating some understanding. However, when you see this going on the best thing to do is “distract” them

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How do you distract them? That is relatively easy, bang a pot (cats hate loud noises,) throw a toy across their field of vision or use your handy water spray bottle. When they stop give them praise and a treat. I know that in the heat of the moment it is sometimes hard to remember but, do not yell, scream or hit either of the cats. Cats do not understand punishment. A “sharp no” is probably the best you can do to correct an action. Re-directing their attention by giving them something else to do is the best way and yes, there are times when that does not work either.