The average time frame is a few weeks but it could take months for the cats to learn to tolerate each other. Maintain a separate litter box and feeding area for the new cat in his room for a few weeks. It is highly recommended to have multiple resources for multiple cats.
Cats who have been together since birth often bond during the early stages of their lives. However, if these cats are not littermates, depending on how they were introduced and the personality of the cats, it could take a few days to a few months to become bonded.
The best way to introduce cats fast is to keep them separate. Cats may fight, and this will prolong the introduction. To introduce cats quickly, you can play with and feed the cats at the closed door. This will help the cats associate each other with a positive experience.
Let your current cat smell the towel. Do the same for the new cat. Don't be alarmed by hissing or growling. These are normal reactions.
Cats with a strong link will frequently show clear indicators that they regard themselves to be members of the same social group. Grooming each other, sleeping, or lying next to each other are examples of these indicators. They may regularly greet each other by touching noses or making a little meow as they pass.
The introduction must be gradual. Following the initial introduction, it can take a very long time for a relationship to grow. 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.
It's not uncommon for bonded cats to hiss or fight, just like human siblings and friends do.
Cats can form very tight feline friendships, and a bonded pair can be difficult to separate. Bonded cats that have been together for many years may suffer depression or behavior issues when separated. That's why animal shelters that receive a pair of bonded cats work hard to place them together.
Over time, they'll likely start getting along again. Just remember, this process can sometimes take weeks, and that's okay. Give your cats the time and space they need. If you're wondering if your cats will ever get along again, the answer is they likely will.
Introducing too quickly with little preparation will often lead to cats feeling threatened and scared, which increases the chance of aggressive behaviour being shown. Once cats feel this way about each other, it can be extremely difficult to change their minds.
If you have a young cat at home and want a second, consider adopting one kitten of the opposite sex, as same-sex cats are much more prone to fight each other for dominance. Your resident cat will still be young enough to recall having fun with her littermates, and the new kitten will be more than happy to oblige.
Don't be alarmed; it's normal for cats to hiss at something new or something they don't understand. Hissing is a distance-increasing behavior. Simply put, it's a warning saying, “Please back off, and do not come any closer.”
Never let the cats “fight it out.” Cats don't resolve their issues through fighting, and the fighting usually just gets worse. Interrupt aggression with a loud clap of your hands or spray from a water gun. Neuter the cats.
Kittens sleep in litters, so by sleeping with you your cat is showing affection and creating a deeper bond with you. In addition, cats are territorial. By sharing your bed, your feline bestie is saying “you're my person.” Knowing you're wanted and needed makes for a good night's sleep.
Playful, energetic cats who love to stay active will likely choose a friend who gives them this exercise and attention. In fact, it may be that your cat is revealing something about you in why they choose to love you best.
Sleeping on you: A sure sign that your cat likes and trusts you, is if they climb onto your lap for a snooze. Cats choose to have their catnaps in safe places, like high up on a shelf, because they can feel vulnerable - so if they curl up on your lap for a snooze they obviously feel a strong trusting bond with you.
Follow this simple rule: one box per cat, plus one extra. So if you have two cats, you should have three boxes. Making sure everyone has their space can help ease elimination issues. Some owners prefer a hooded box, but some cats don't like them.
Cats are family-oriented and usually live with their relatives. Cats will sleep together, share common feeding areas, and groom one another within family groups. For this reason, cats often do well adopted in pairs.
Most feline behaviorists agree that cats generally lead healthier, happier lives if there is another feline in the household. Even if the cats never become bosom buddies, just sharing the house with another living creature while you are away helps to break the monotony and loneliness.