How to Introduce a New Cat to Your Home
PetMedPal is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. This never changes what you pay or our honest recommendations.
Rushing cat introductions leads to conflict. Here's the patient, proven method for a peaceful multi-cat home.
Go slow — it's worth it
Cats are territorial, so a rushed introduction can create lasting tension. A gradual, scent-first approach dramatically improves the odds of a peaceful household.
Save on your pet's care: Our [free pet savings card](/card) can lower the cost of prescriptions at thousands of pharmacies — no fees, no catch.
Start with separation
Set up the new cat in their own room with food, water, litter, and hiding spots. Let both cats get used to each other's scent under the door before any face-to-face meeting.
Swap scents and sights
Exchange bedding between cats, and feed them on opposite sides of the closed door so they associate each other with good things. Progress to brief visual contact through a cracked door or baby gate.
Supervised meetings
Once both are calm, allow short, supervised meetings, rewarding calm behavior. Keep sessions positive and end before tension rises. Patience over days or weeks pays off. Pheromone diffusers can smooth the process.
Save on your pet's meds
Grab our free Rx discount card — accepted at thousands of pharmacies.
Frequently asked
- How long does it take to introduce cats?
- It varies — some take days, others weeks. Go at the cats' pace; rushing causes setbacks. Patience produces the best long-term result.
- What if my cats fight during introductions?
- Separate them calmly and slow the process down, returning to scent-only exchanges. If serious aggression continues, consult your vet or a behaviorist.