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How to help a new stray cat adjust to my existing cats and dogs?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Pomeranian | Male | unneutered | 5 years and 5 months old | 16 lbs

An outdoor cat my family has recently been feeding has made her(?) home inside of our house after it started snowing and ran inside, to the much dismay of our other cats and dogs. Any way we can help them adjust? I don't believe she's a true feral kitty because she took well to a flea and tick shampoo bath, and the only thing she's uncomfortable with is the other worked up animals. Especially two of my smaller dogs, particularly Chewie who is very jealous sometimes.

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1 Answer

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Answered By Oneal Bogan, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 11th, 2017

Hi there Adjusting to a new animal in the home can sometimes take months. There are a few things that can help, but honestly time is the best remedy. I would make sure all the pets have enough space, and a safe place to eat and drink that is away from the new cat. I would also use the Adaptil spray and Feliway spray diffusers in your home. This helps animals calm down and can make their enviornment more neutral while they adjust. Finally, just be sure to keep things routine. Pets love routine and while a new cat isn't routine, keeping everything else this way will help. Best wishes and thanks for using Pet Coach!

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